LAKE MACQUARIE: WATER WONDERLAND

I think we can all agree that 2020 was the year of homebodies - and as much as we appreciate the roof over our heads, it's understandable that we're itching to get away for a little. Whether you're on the hunt for a weekend getaway, wanting to squeeze in a family vacation or simply looking for a few days up the coast, Lake Macquarie is the perfect escape that's only 90 minutes away.

For all those sun, sand, sea and surf lovers, Lake Mac covers everything from family-friendly beaches, sea caves and rock pools, to surf breaks, snorkelling spots, driving locations and kayaking routes. We're so lucky to have so many beautiful places right here in NSW, so why not make the most of that 30+ kilometres of coastline?

With an array of beaches to choose from, the sunny region has plenty of patrolled beaches to choose from! Here at TLSE, we take our beach days very seriously (and LOVE Lake Mac of course), so here are our top picks for the best beaches...

Blacksmiths Beach Blacksmiths Beach is one of the area’s top swim spots, and is protected by a breakwall - so you can enjoy a relaxing dip without worrying about the waves. With Grannies Pool inlet nearby, it's the perfect location for splashing around with your little ones.

Caves Beach True to the name, Caves Beach is perfect for exploring sea caves and rock pools at low tide and is definitely a must-see. If you're thinking of travelling with family, this is a great spot to spend the afternoon. An amazing family beach with sea caves and rock pools to explore at low tide.

Catherine Hill Bay Set on the shores of a picturesque historical mining village, Catherine Hill Bay is a great spot for snorkelling and diving to view local shipwrecks, as well as offering some amazing surf breaks.

Redhead Beach Redhead Beach is shadowed by amazing red cliffs and sports an iconic wooden lifeguard’s tower. A perfect spot for swimming, surfing, fishing, or simply marvelling at the view. While Lake Macquarie’s beaches offer amazing swim spots, so too does the Lake itself. Its secluded sandy inlets can be discovered by boat, which sun-chasing holidaymakers can hire from Lake Macquarie Watersports. If kayaking is more your style, Lake Macquarie Watersports offers kayak and stand up paddleboarding (SUP) hire too. On the lake, you can enjoy one of many kayaking routes – from Dora Creek to Swinging Bridge and Speers Point to Barnsley Weir – there are a variety of courses to try from easy to advanced.

If we haven't already convinced you to visit Lake Mac, this might do the trick. Located at Cams Wharf, the fast-paced, JetBuzz is a must for any thrill-seekers. Choose from a 25-minute ride across the lake as you stomach a heart-stopping combination of high-speed slides and turns as well as JetBuzz’s famous 360° spins, power brake stops and fishtails. Or, try the one hour ‘Ocean Extreme’, where you cross the bar and head into the ocean for an adventure before exploring the surf at Blacksmiths Beach or Caves Beach.

After a long day on the water, you really can't beat a cold beer and a comfy bed. With a variety of accommodation, (including some with lake access for small boats), restaurants and pubs - you really can relax and unwind.