The Sydneysiders’ Playground

Lake Macquarie – Lake Macquarie Tourism

You and your partner deserve time out to relax from the stresses of life. Lake Macquarie is just the place and now is the time to make that decision to visit this holiday destination, where Lake, Beach and Mountains are all in easy reach, giving you that diverse holiday experience.

Lake Macquarie – It's been Sydneysiders' playground for decades and now it is time for you to join in to discover the secrets that lie just 90 minutes North of Sydney. Travelling North via the F3 and Pacific Highway will take you to the gateway of the Hunter Region.

Water soothes the soul; have you ever arrived at a beach and struggled to find a spot of sand to place your towel? Well, you won't have that trouble in Lake Macquarie. Our immaculate sandy beaches stretch from Catherine Hill Bay to Redhead Beach and you are sure to secure yourself your own uncrowded spot ready to settle back to read that novel and forget your worries.

An impressive fact about Lake Macquarie is it is one of Australia's largest coastal saltwater lakes, twice the size of Sydney Harbour. To take advantage of this fabulous aquatic playground, head out for a day on the lake by hiring a boat, houseboat or join one of the lake cruises or sailing charters available. Whilst on the lake you will discover many sandy inlets, where dropping anchor to swim, fish or snorkel or soaking in the scenery will delight. For something slightly tamer, have a kayak delivered to your accommodation doorstep and set off for a kayaking adventure.

Dry land activities in Lake Macquarie can be just as enticing. From nature walks along the impressive coastline to cycle and walking paths meandering around the lake, you are sure to be relaxed by the beauty of our natural attractions. A feature that may surprise is that Lake Macquarie can also provide a mountain experience. The Watagan Mountains provide a superb backdrop to the Lake where you can see giant pine trees, soak in stunning views or go hiking. The Watagan trails are also popular for hitting the saddle for the enjoyable past-time of horse riding. Once your feet are firmly back on land discover the area''s unique Art Galleries that will leave you feeling you have stumbled on something unique and quirky.

As far as your accommodation choice there is something to match all tastes. Choose from delightful waterfront boat cottages and beach houses, peaceful mountain retreats, cosy guesthouses, charming B&B's, tourist parks and a lakeside resort or for a true lake holiday, why not stay on a houseboat.

With a diverse range of waterfront dining, charming cafés and restaurants there's always a culinary delight waiting for you and you can make time for a spot of shopping at our larger centres or quaint boutiques.

Lake Macquarie is a destination that is gradually being discovered by tourists as a relaxed escape from the hectic pace of life and some of the busier tourist destinations along the east coast. With it's long stretches of sandy beach, undeveloped coastline, and the immense blue-water lake, together with its easy access, this is a destination worth discovering and rediscovering in all seasons.

Your stay will be made complete by taking in our breath-taking beaches of Catherine Hill Bay ,Caves Beach (walk through the caves in low tide), Redhead & Dudley Beaches (explore the rock pools) and Blacksmiths Beach (southern part of Nine-Mile Beach). From historical to natural aspects, cultural experiences to culinary gourmet delights, Lake Macquarie has something for everyone. The saying, “simple things in life are often the best” applies to Lake Macquarie where the choices are yours to make.

Visit www.visitlakemac.com.au or call 1800 802 044.