A day trip to Lake Macquarie from Sydney: What to see, eat & do

Morning 

Make an early start to get the most out of your day in Lake Macquarie. First stop is Caves Beach, where you can explore the network of caves sitting at the back of the sand. As the light shifts and casts shadows over the sand, the east coast of Australia begins to glow. Be sure to snap a shot of the sea from inside one of the caverns or wade out to rocky outcrops. Check the tides before you go because you can only access the caves at low tide.  

Caves Beach, Lake Macquarie

Now, it’s time for coffee. Continue north to Table 1 Espresso, which sits just across from the foreshore of Lake Macquarie at Warners Bay. Fuel up with the T1 superbowl, Persian eggs, Mexican hot pot or Harlem chicken and waffles. 

The Watagans Cycle Track runs between Eleebana and Speers Point, and you can join it right here at Warners Bay. Wrapping around the shore of Lake Macquarie, it promises beautiful water views and bridge crossings. Cycling north, it’s an easy 3.5-kilometre ride to Speers Point Park. Along the way, look out for the quirky works of the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail. You’ll see sculptures, 3D murals and conceptual installations from local and international artists. 

Watagans Cycle Track, Lake Macquarie

When you arrive at Speers Point you can grab another coffee (there’s an outpost of Table 1 here as well) and wander around the immersive Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima (MAP). This high-tech creative canvas for contemporary art is the newest outlet from the Museum of Art and Culture, yapang (MAC). The dramatic cube-shaped building is an artwork unto itself, and it hosts installations, digital screenings and audio presentations.   

Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima, Lake Macquarie

Afternoon  

After a busy morning, take this opportunity to relax. Lake Macquarie Cruises runs weekend Lunch on the Lake journeys, where you can sit back on their stylish vessel as she cruises gently across this vast waterway. Admire the tranquil scenery and see charming coastal villages while enjoying a barbecue lunch of steak, sausages, fresh prawns and salads. 

Lake Macquarie Cruises, Lake Macquarie

This afternoon, there are a few options depending on the weather or your preferences. If the sun is shining, check out one of Lake Macquarie’s gorgeous beaches. Naru Beach has crystal clear, perfectly calm waters and is a favourite with stand-up paddleboarders. Lake Mac Kayak and Bike Hire can bring you a board. 

Naru Beach, Lake Macquarie

Green Point Reserve is great for kids, with shallow sandy coves, a grassed area and a playground. If you’re looking for waves, Catherine Hill Bay is a stunning ocean beach ideal for swimming and surfing. It also offers great snorkelling in the rockpool or around the old coal-loading jetty. 

Catherine Hill Bay Beach, Lake Macquarie

Feeling arty? Museum of Art and Culture, yapang (MAC) sits lakeside in Booragul, surrounded by five heactares of leafy garden dotted with sculptures. Inside, there’s a rotating calendar of exhibitions, which include a strong roster of Aboriginal art. On the weekends, they also host regular workshops and the popular Sunday Session, with live music and local creatives. 

Museum of Art and Culture, yapang (MAC), Booragul

Evening 

Because a large portion of Lake Macquarie’s shoreline faces west, you can catch some incredible sunsets. Grab some supplies and set up at Speers Point Park, which is right on the edge of the water. There are public barbecues to use and a fun kids’ playground. Or head for the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club. With a deck jutting out over the water, it’s a spectacular spot to watch the sun go down with a cold drink in hand. 

Cams Wharf, Lake Macquarie