Lake Macquarie

The basics

Don’t confuse Lake Macquarie with Port Macquarie because they are quite different—not to mention three hours apart. You can go to the lake for the day or longer, depending on your time constraints. Spend some time in the town itself, organizing sailboats, kayaks, or tours. Helicopter rides and high-adrenaline skydiving experiences are a great way to admire the lake from above, while boat trips help you get out on the water.

Things to know before you go

• During the colder months (June–August), you might spot humpback whales and dolphins.

• Hunter Valley isn’t far away, so consider combining your trip to Lake Macquarie with a stop at one of the vineyards for lunch and wine tastings.

• There are plenty of accommodation options on the shores of the lake.

How to get there

Depending on where you’re coming from, there should be a relatively easy way to get to Lake Macquarie. It’s 1.5 hours from Sydney or a 20-minute drive from Newcastle. Alternatively, hop on the train and relax watching the countryside roll by.

When to get there

For warm-weather outdoor activities such as boating, hiking, swimming, and kayaking, head to Lake Macquarie during the Aussie summer months of November through February. This is peak time, so you’ll encounter bigger crowds. The lake still has its charm in the off-peak seasons, just make sure to pack warm clothes.

Where to go skydiving

After you’ve spent enough time lazing on beaches, surfing, eating fish and chips on the beach, and shopping for ocean-inspired Aussie gear, think about taking it up a notch and seeing the New South Wales coastline from the sky. Besides helicopter tours, there’s also the option of skydiving, just like some of those strange and wonderful Aussie birds.