A traveller's guide to Lake Macquarie

**Spread along the entrancing NSW Coast, reaching deep into the heartland of the Hunter, and surrounding the sparkling waters of the lake it takes its name from, Lake Macquarie is a travellers wonderland. Only **90 minutes from **Sydney and **30 from Newcastle, there’s no shortage of stunning natural beauty, international cuisine and memorable places to stay.

The Natural World

Speers Point Park : Nestled along the waters foreshore, Speers Point Park is one of the focal points of the city, attracting tourists and locals alike to the northern tip of the lake. An ideal spot to lay a picnic rug and watch the activity atop the water, the Variety Playground is a great place to set up shop by, letting the kids burn their energy away in one of Australia’s most awarded playgrounds. (Yes there are playground awards!) You can also start the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail from here, taking in the region's best artwork along five kilometres of lakefront paths.

Wangi Circuit Walk : Find this superb bushwalk on the Wangi Wangi peninsula that juts into the heart of Lake Macquarie. A 2km loop track taking in impressive eucalyptus trees, blooming wildflowers and the serene waters of the lake, it’s a perfect opportunity to stretch those legs without committing to a back-breaking hike. Keep your eyes peeled for local waterbirds and sea turtles bathing in the shallows.

Naru Beach : An awesome hidden gem on the shores of Lake Macquari e, Naru is a secluded spot to lap up the sun surrounded by tranquil turquoise waters. A great spot to take the kids with ample shallow waters to splash around in, the beach is also a perfect setting off point for paddleboarding and kayaking atop the calm surface of the lake. Bring your own shade and come prepared as there are no amenities.

Eating and Drinking:

Sesames on the Lake : After a busy day exploring the nooks and crannies of the lake, what could be better than a casual dinner featuring some of the finest food in the region? Sesames is an Asian fusion delight, offering modern spins on classic dishes in a laid back environment. When you’re travelling somewhere new, it’s always best to go where the locals eat, and Sesames has long been an institution for the residents of Belmont.

The Yard Brewery & Smokehouse : It’s no secret that brewpubs have exploded into fashion across Australia. These family-and-pet-friendly venues are often the best way to spend a lazy sunday afternoon, and The Yard is no different. Featuring a huge mix of their fresh craft beers, regular live music, and a low ‘n’ slow BBQ menu from their on-site smokehouse, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve found yourself in the Texan countryside.

The Boat Shed Bar : Of course, no holiday to any lake in the world, let alone one as eminently gazeable as Lake Macquarie, would be complete without an evening spent drink in hand, overlooking the water underneath a sunset sky. Look no further than the Boat Shed Bar , a (you guessed it!) converted former boat shed that still pays homage to its roots with sailing memorabilia and original structures inside. Enjoy fine wines, craft beers, fresh cocktails and a wide menu as you wonder how quickly you can buy a house in Lake Macquarie.

Places to stay:

Swansea Lakeside Holiday Park : Soak up the best of both worlds from this lakefront holiday park. Metres from the water, and only a few minutes drive to the golden beaches on the coast, you’ll be positively spoilt for choice when it comes to which body of water you choose to spend the day by. Swansea Lakeside offers a huge variety of activities, from tennis and basketball, mini golf, a generous pool for the kids, or the perfect launching spot for you to take the tinny out for a day of fishing.

Wangi Point Holiday Park : If you’re gunning for the kind of holiday that will leave you reaching a state of utter relaxation you didn’t know was possible, Wangi Point Holiday Park is your top choice. Nestled amidst a natural bush setting along the untouched foreshore, spend your days exploring the peaceful lakefront along a myriad of paths that wind their way through the bush. Say hi to the friendly wildlife, paddle in the azure waters or simply lay by your van overlooking the lake, and find your bliss.

Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park : Want an almost unbroken panorama of rich blue waters awaiting you as you step out of your van in the morning? Looking for that tropical island vibe without actually needing to find a tropical island? Want to impress your family and friends as they wonder how you managed to find a place so stunning as this? Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park has your name written all over it. Unwind beside the lake that almost completely encircles the park. You won’t want to leave.

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a weekend? Find your first stop on your relaxation journey in Lake Macquarie, on the doorstep of the Sydney and Newcastle regions. Your dream van is waiting on Camplify. See you there.