Beaches and swim spots

Surf beaches

The largest coastal saltwater lake in the southern hemisphere is also home to more than 30 kilometres of coastline boasting spectacular surf beaches, rock pools teeming with sea creatures, and rugged headlands.

Catch a wave or explore the rock pools at secluded Dudley Beach in Glenrock State Conservation Area. Venture a little further south and you’ll find the first of Lake Macquarie’s four patrolled beaches, Redhead, which is popular with swimmers and surfers alike. You can also bring your pup – there’s a 24-hour off-leash section of the beach for your furry friend to explore.

Immediately south of Redhead Beach you’ll find the long stretches of Nine Mile Beach (you can take your 4WD through Belmont Wetlands State Park and onto the central section of this beach after you obtain a permit).

Bring the whole family to patrolled Blacksmiths Beach, bordered by the Swansea Channel breakwater at the southern end of Nine Mile Beach. Splash about in nearby Grannies Pool, an accessible shallow inlet on the Swansea Channel breakwater that’s perfect for toddlers, or let your dog off the leash north of the patrolled beach.

South of the Swansea Channel you’ll find the surfing spot of Hams Beach and the Insta-famous Caves Beach – take a dip at the patrolled section of Caves Beach and explore the sea saves at the southern end at low tide.

Keep going down the coast to discover the fourth patrolled beach at Catherine Hill Bay, with its massive wooden pier stretching out into the deep, and the hidden gems of Moonee Beach and Ghosties Beach in the Munmorah State Conservation Area.

Swimming spots on the lake

The sheltered waters of the lake are ideal for a dip on a warm day. Swim laps or bring your inflatables to Belmont Baths, a netted swimming enclosure with an accessible ramp in Belmont. You can also swim at the baths on the Toronto foreshore, which will soon be fully enclosed and made accessible, or take the kids to one of the council-run swim centres around the lake.

Splash about in the shallows of lake beaches like Naru Beach, near the airport at Marks Point; the sandy shores of Pelican Foreshore Park, south of Naru Beach; and Swansea Bay Beach, on the other side of Swansea Channel near the Pirrita Island boardwalk.

Please note:

• There are no lifeguard service in this area and access for emergency services is limited.
• walking over a rock shelves can be slippery, uneven and dangerous. Conditions are unpredictable and can change rapidly. Ocean swell can send unpredictable waves sweeping over the rock shelf.
• Plan you trip when visiting a national park and find out more about beach safety.