Everything You Need To See, Eat And Do In Lake Macquarie
Eloise Luke
Contributor | Urban List
Where heart-thumping adventure meets slow, sun-drenched relaxation, Lake Macquarie is the under-the-radar coastal destination that strikes the perfect balance.
Boasting the largest coastal saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere, cool-temperate rainforests, waterfalls and hidden sea caves paired with top-notch restaurants and a luxe resort, Lake Macquarie has all the makings of the perfect holiday. Plus, being largely undiscovered and with so much on offer, it’s the ideal spot to escape the crowds.
Located a 90-minute drive north of Sydney and 50 minutes from Newcastle airport, Lake Macquarie is easy to get to so you can quickly slip into holiday mode.
Ready to explore? We’ve partnered up with Visit Lake Macquarie, Destination New South Wales, Tourism Australia, and KAYAK to bring you a rundown of the absolute must-do experiences.
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The Coolest Places To Stay
Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows
Swansea
Image credit: Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows | Instagram
There's nothing more boujee than beachfront accom—and at Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows, you'll be getting all that and more for a steal. Couples especially love this spot, and it’s easy to see why. Book an ocean bungalow for two, and you can expect direct access to Caves Beach, a sun terrace, sea views, and a year-round outdoor pool.
There's also a restaurant on site, so you won't have to travel far for your snacking needs—but we recommend taking a trip into town anyway while you're here.
Insider intel
- If you are finding the wind-down time too much of an adjustment, book in for a yoga class or scuba-diving—and don't miss out on exploring the nearby area (it's called Caves Beach for a reason).
The Lake House
Coal Point
Image credit: The Lake House | Airbnb
It wouldn't be a trip to Lake Macquarie without a true waterfront experience, and this weekender is perched right against it (jetty and all).
The breezy two-bedroom cottage has had a glow-up inside and out—think open-plan living, soft light, and views that make you forget your emails exist. It’s also got all the good stuff: a proper kitchen (coffee machine locked and loaded), air con, outdoor shower, and a deck built for lazy lunches and sunset sipping.
Insider intel
- The jetty’s shared with the neighbours, so play nice when you’re launching your kayak or perfecting your cannonball form.
Headland Haven
Dudley
Image credit: Headland Haven | Airbnb
If lakefront living isn't your vibe (mosquitoes, we get it), this stunning home is set high above it all. Perched on a headland bordering the national park, The Headland House offers sweeping 180-degree views of the coastline, plus direct access to trails that wind down to hidden beaches and rock pools.
Inside, it’s all about space and style. Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living areas, and a kitchen that’s as sleek as it is functional make it ideal for families or groups. The upstairs living room comes with cathedral ceilings, a fireplace, and a wall of glass framing that ridiculous view.
Downstairs, a self-contained area gives guests or teens their own hangout zone—with a second kitchenette, workspace, and access to the backyard hot tub.
Insider intel
- Start your morning with a coffee on the balcony before hitting the walking trails straight from your doorstep. When you’re back, soak it all in (literally) in the hot tub with a front-row seat to the coastline.
Villa Bianco
Caves Beach
Image credit: Villa Bianco | Airbnb
We couldn't give you our top local stays without something a little luxe, if you swing that way. Villa Bianco is more of a boutique resort than holiday home, pairing sleek architecture with sunlit spaces, a private pool, and just the right amount of wow.
Inside, everything’s dialled up a notch—from the fluted island bench and gold tapware in the kitchen to the breezy open-plan living that flows straight to the pool deck. There’s space for the whole crew (up to 15 guests), with king and queen bedrooms, family bunks, and four bathrooms that make mornings smooth sailing. Upstairs, a second lounge with a stone fireplace sets the mood for movie nights or lazy afternoons with a book.
When you’re not floating in the pool, hit the games room for table tennis and poker, or gather around the firepit for a nightcap under the stars. Every detail is polished but never pretentious—just pure, easygoing elegance.
Insider intel
- Bring your people, clear your calendar, and let the weekend unfold poolside. The Wi-Fi might drop out here and there, but honestly, that’s kind of the point.
The Coolest Places To Eat
8 at Trinity
81 Trinity Point Drive, Morisset Park
Image credit: 8 at Trinity | Website
Channeling the laid-back magic of the Med, 8 at Trinity is serving up seriously good food in one knockout waterfront spot. Set right on the marina, this 350-seat restaurant and sprawling terrace make the most of those Lake Macquarie views—whether you’re here for a long lunch, sunset cocktails, or an easy weekend dinner.
The menu blends relaxed coastal classics with polished plates made from top-quality produce—think family favourites reimagined with a little flair. Opt for one of their tasting plates if you love a bouj-ified charcuterie: Sydney rock oysters with pickled cucumber, salmon caviar & chardonnay vinegar? Yes please.
Pair it with a signature cocktail or something crisp from their world-class wine list (you'll be liasing with a somm) and you’re set.
Insider intel
- Book a table out on the terrace for golden-hour views that’ll make you forget you’re not actually on the Riviera.
TINTA
690 Pacific Highway, Belmont
Image credit: TINTA | Instagram
Anchored between the Pacific Ocean and Lake Macquarie, TINTA Belmont is doing waterfront dining right—just polished enough to make any meal feel like an occasion (without the dress code). Open Wednesday to Sunday from 8am, it’s your go-to for everything from early breakfasts (hello, lobster benedict on sonoma sourdough) to sunset drinks.
The menu keeps things sharp but unfussy—fresh local seafood, smart seasonal dishes, and a Hunter Valley-heavy wine list that proves less really can be more. At $69pp, the chef's banquet is our go-to bang for buck—but truthfully, we just want to try a bit of everything on the menu.
Insider intel
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Here to chill? Opt for the lawn menu for a more casual approach—think rock oysters, lobster and prawn rolls, and trusty fish and chips.
Cleaver
16 The Boulevarde, Toronto
Image credit: Cleaver | Instagram
Tucked on The Boulevarde, Cleaver Café might be small, but it punches well above its weight. The space is simple and warm—timber, soft light, and a steady stream of locals grabbing their daily brew.
The coffee is what gets people queueing out the door, and for good reason—but we are especially partial to their rotating list of baked goods. Recent food faves include the fresh baked scrolls (salted peanut and caramel is a crowd-pleaser), and the classic B&E brekkie roll.
Insider Intel
- They sell a few different bean blends by weight here, and can grind to order if that's more your speed.
The Yard Brewery & Smokehouse
32 Accolade Ave, Morisset
Image credit: The Yard Brewery | Instagram
The Yard Brewery & Smokehouse ticks all the boxes for a solid pub feed and local craft beer. It’s a relaxed, no-fuss brewpub pouring fresh beer straight from the tanks, backed by a low ‘n’ slow smokehouse and a pizza kitchen—simple, but effective.
The tap list changes with the seasons but usually spans everything from crisp lagers to hazy IPAs, espresso stouts, and red ales. If indecision strikes, grab a tasting paddle (four mini pours for seventeen bucks) and call it research. The smokehouse turns out all the right things: brisket, kransky dogs, loaded fries, and meats so tender they don’t need a sales pitch.
Insider intel
- They’re open seven days from midday, with live music every weekend and takeaway beer for the road (growlers, cans, or even corny kegs if you’re that committed).
The Coolest Things To Do
Explore Lush National Parks
Image credit: Visit NSW | Instagram
Lake Macquarie is well-known for its huge, glittering lake and aquatic adventures, but venture slightly inland and you’ll discover mountainous vistas and national parks just waiting to be explored. Hike through cool rainforests to the dramatic Gap Creek Falls (reopening in October), where up to 40m of water cascades down after it rains.
More of the sit and soak-in type? Head to Monkey Face Lookout for scenic views over the Martinsville Valley where there are plenty of spots to throw down the picnic blanket. Head back into town post-hike, or to Onley State Forest which offers a number of campsites set amongst the picturesque pines.
Kick Back And Soak In The Seaside Serenity
Image credit: Visit NSW | Instagram
It wouldn't be a trip to Lake Macquarie without a stroll around the lake or planting a parasol at one of the many beaches. When it comes to choosing which one, you really can’t go wrong but an absolute must is Naru Beach. This is a lake beach, so the waters are calm and relaxing, but the real drawcard is the series of small sand islands just off the shore.
Jump into a kayak or paddleboard over to your own private island—pure bliss. Another unmissable experience is watching the sunrise from Caves Beach. As the name suggests, it’s a unique network of sea caves at the southern end of the beach, which can be explored at low tide. Just be sure to check the tidal timetable before you go.
Cruise The Lake In Style
Image credit: Visit Lake Mac | Instagram
If exploring the waterfront is more your cue, Lake Mac Watersports have all kinds of boat, kayak, and fishing vessles to hire for the day. You can also join a jet boat tour or a stand-up paddleboarding session, if you’re after something a little more fast-paced (and photogenic).
It is a holiday after all, so why not let someone else take the wheel. Book a Lake Macquarie Lunch Cruise and spend 2.5 hours gliding across the water. You’ll be treated to a freshly prepared BBQ spread of local prawns, scotch fillet steak, gourmet sausages, and fresh salads, followed by light sweets, tea, and coffee. There’s also a fully licensed bar onboard for when you feel like upgrading your view with a glass of wine.
Get Your Fix Of Adrenaline And Adventure
Image credit: Visit Lake Mac | Instagram
If you’re chasing an adrenaline rush, Lake Macquarie can absolutely deliver. Feeling brave? Hit up Skydive Sydney-Newcastle and soak in the Lake Macquarie views while freefalling, or get an unreal view of the lake from above by helicopter with Skyline Aviation Group.
If you’d rather stay grounded (but still keep your heart rate up), join the crew at Out and About Adventures. These local legends are all about getting outdoors and helping others do the same, running epic experiences that range from abseiling and rock climbing to kayaking and guided nature tours. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned thrill-seeker, they’ve got something to get you moving.
Their most talked-about challenge? Abseiling Gap Creek Falls—a 45-metre descent down sandstone cliffs into a natural rainforest amphitheatre in Watagans National Park. It’s a breathtaking descent that captures the wild beauty of Lake Macquarie’s hinterland.
Get ready for a well-deserved and totally rejuvenating trip to Lake Macquarie. KAYAK is making it easy by curating flights, accommodation, rental cars, and vacation packages all in one place.
Main image credit: Visit Lake Mac | Instagram
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Visit Lake Macquarie, Destination New South Wales, Tourism Australia and KAYAK, and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
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