TOP 5 | Nature Activities to Enjoy Around Lake Macquarie

Lake Macquarie |  Credit: Destination NSW

Lake Macquarie is the largest tidal lake in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching across 174 kilometres of pristine shoreline just south of Newcastle. This stunning natural playground offers a perfect blend of water-based adventures, scenic walks, and peaceful retreats that showcase the very best of the Central Coast region. From sailing the sparkling waters to exploring protected nature reserves, here are the top five must-do experiences that make Lake Macquarie an unmissable destination.

1. Sailing and Water Sports

Lake Macquarie's calm, protected waters create ideal conditions for sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The lake's size means there's always a quiet cove to explore, while consistent breezes make it perfect for both beginners and experienced sailors.

Several marinas around the lake offer boat hire and sailing lessons, with Belmont Bay Marina and Toronto Marina being popular starting points. The lake's numerous bays and inlets provide endless opportunities for exploration, each offering its own unique character and scenery.

Don't miss the chance to spot local wildlife, including pelicans, sea eagles, and dolphins that frequently visit the lake's waters.

2. Fernleigh Track Cycling and Walking

This spectacular 15-kilometre track follows a converted railway line from Belmont to Adamstown, offering one of the region's most scenic cycling and walking experiences. The flat, sealed surface makes it accessible for all fitness levels and perfect for families with children.

The track passes through diverse landscapes, including coastal heath, wetlands, and bushland, with numerous viaducts providing stunning elevated views over Lake Macquarie. Historic railway infrastructure along the route tells the story of the region's industrial heritage.

Multiple access points and parking areas make it easy to tackle the track in sections, while bike hire is available in Belmont for those travelling without their own wheels.

3. Wangi Wangi Point Scenic Views

For breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Macquarie, Wangi Wangi Point is simply unmatched. This elevated headland offers sweeping vistas across the entire lake system, with the distant Watagan Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.

The short walk from the car park to the main lookout is suitable for all ages and abilities. The grassy headland provides perfect picnic spots, while the surrounding bushland is home to native birds, including kookaburras and rainbow lorikeets.

Visit during golden hour for spectacular sunrise or sunset photography opportunities, when the lake transforms into a mirror reflecting the changing sky colours.

4. Fishing the Famous Flathead Spots

Lake Macquarie is renowned throughout NSW for its excellent fishing, particularly for dusky flatheads. The lake's diverse habitat, comprising sandy flats, rocky outcrops, and seagrass beds, supports a healthy fish population throughout the year.

Popular fishing spots include Carey Bay, Swansea Channel, and the areas around Pulbah Island. In addition to flathead, anglers regularly catch bream, whiting, mulloway, and tailor. The lake is also famous for its recreational prawning during the summer months.

Fishing charters and guides are available for those wanting local expertise, while numerous boat ramps provide easy access for private vessels.

5. Pulbah Island Nature Reserve

This 68-hectare island sanctuary offers a unique glimpse into the region's natural and cultural heritage. Accessible by boat or kayak, Pulbah Island Nature Reserve protects remnant coastal vegetation and serves as a habitat for over 90 bird species.

The island boasts walking tracks that traverse diverse ecosystems, including coastal heath, casuarina forests, and mangrove communities. Aboriginal shell middens found on the island provide evidence of thousands of years of indigenous occupation.

Guided tours are available through local operators, offering insights into the island's ecology and cultural significance. The island also provides excellent vantage points for photography and wildlife observation.

Lake Macquarie offers an incredible diversity of experiences within easy reach of Newcastle and Sydney. Whether you're seeking active water sports, peaceful nature encounters, or simply want to enjoy some of NSW's most beautiful scenery, this remarkable destination delivers unforgettable memories. Each of these five activities showcases a different aspect of what makes Lake Macquarie such a special place.

Pack your sense of adventure and discover why locals consider this their own slice of paradise.