This Lakeside Spot Just 1.5 Hours From Sydney Is A Must For Your Next Getaway

Picture this–you drive 90 minutes from your city pad, check in to your quaint, waterfront cottage overlooking a saltwater lake twice the size of Sydney Harbour, then stroll down the road to get the lay of the land.

You’re immediately drawn to the marina, it’s giving ‘dreamy pre-dinner drink vibes’. As luck would have it, there’s a perfectly-placed bar right on the water, and you order a round of G&Ts. At the restaurant next door, the chefs are cooking up a storm—steaks sizzle and calamari is drizzled in chill salt, lemon and garlic. You’re only human, so you submit to your senses and pull up a chair. On the way home, you spot a cool cafe for breakfast, a must-visit gallery and a collection of sculptures dancing on the coastline.

You’ve officially arrived at Lake Macquarie—a vibrant coastal city nestled between the Central Coast and Newcastle—that invites you to come for the lake, stay for the food, the fun and the art. Here’s our ultimate guide to some of the best places to eat, play and stay during your next Lake Mac long weekend. 

Bites And Brews

Mr. Sister Coffee – Speers Point

Mr. Sister Coffee stands for three things. Bagels, toasties and coffee crafted with care. If that’s not the dream breakfast invite, we don’t know what is. Grinding and pouring Coffee Supreme from 6.30am Monday to Friday and 7am on weekends, Mr. Sister Coffee is the perfect spot to fuel up for the day. 

8 at Trinity

Soaring white canopies and potted palms paint a pretty Mediterranean picture at 8 at Trinity. Grab a table in the 350-seat restaurant or, if the sun’s shining, outside on the terrace overlooking the marina. Your toughest decision will be choosing from the menu, which delivers locally-sourced produce like the Wagyu Tomahawk MBS9+, Singapore chilli prawns and the best seafood platter you'll find on the east coast. 

Brownsugar Restaurant

Straight up, Brownsugar Restaurant is a Lake Macquarie institution, serving sizzling steaks, seafood tasting plates and sharing platters to write home about, As for the wine list, she’s heavily Hunter inspired, and we’re here for it. Don't skip the Audrey Wilkinson tempranillo, a medium-bodied drop that pairs perfectly with sweeping views of the lake. 

Play It Loud 

Museum of Art and Culture 

Now you’re ready to explore–and your first stop should be the Museum of Art and Culture (MAC). Wrapped in 50,000 square metres of leafy surrounds on the lake’s shoreline, this award-winning museum comes complete with a sculpture park, meandering mosaic pathways, a handy on-site cafe for your second coffee hit and a beautiful shop to snap up a souvenir handcrafted by local artisans. 

Showtime Kayaking 

For a truly unique Lake Mac experience, book a Seafood Sunset Paddle with Showtime Kayaking. You’ll set off from Naru Beach at twilight in your very own illuminated, clear double kayak. While paddling across the lake, look down to steal a glance at the underwater world that glows beneath, before landing on a sand island where picnic mats, live music and a gourmet seafood dinner await. 

Creative Lake Sculpture Trail

To experience the great outdoors and great art in one go, follow the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail. The 5km track hosts larger-than-life artworks from both Australian and international artists, while wrapping around the coastline of some of Lake Macquarie’s most popular precincts, including Speers Point, Warners Bay and Eleebana. 

Accommodation With A Side Of Lakeside Views

The Little Lakehouse Waterfront Escape

The clue’s in the name with this one. The Little Lakehouse Waterfront Escape serves up dreamy lake views, a peaceful, green garden space just begging for a picnic rug and a good book, and private massage services. Yep, you read that right. So pour a mojito on your private deck, order in takeaway from one of their nearby restaurants and unwind with a massage in this waterfront escape. 

Lakeside Retreat On The Esplanade

Keen to live like a local during your Lake Macquarie visit? The Lakeside Retreat is a four-bedroom haven in the heart of Speers Point. Here you’ll find a cosy home away from home, complete with a private garden and dining room boasting scenic lake views. With space for up to nine guests, it’s the perfect spot for young families or a group of pals to kick back and truly experience Lake Macquarie. 

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Visit Lake Macquarie and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Imagery: Supplied