Activities to enjoy now
Published on 26 August 2024
Lake Macquarie enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Our area typically experiences plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Don’t let anything deter you from finding new things to do – get out there and explore these activities now.
1. Soak in the sunshine
Sunlight increases the mood boosting chemical serotonin in the brain, giving you more reason to enjoy some vitamin D. While the water might be a bit chilly in winter, you can still enjoy the lake from the foreshore of Warners Bay, Belmont or Toronto or pack some goodies for a seaside picnic at Catherine Hill Bay or Dudley.
2. Have a whale of a time
It’s whale migration season between May and November, and there’s plenty of seats along the coast to catch them! Redhead Bluff and Caves Beach make for the perfect vantage points to spot the majestic creatures on their annual journey to warmer waters up north. Don’t forget your binoculars.
3. Gear up and get outdoors
Keen to unwind and disconnect? Leave your worries behind and head into Watagans National Park for a day or two. With bushwalks for every hiker, picnic areas and idyllic camping spots, it's the perfect nature escape right at our doorstep. If you’re staying overnight, bring the marshmallows for some fireside roasting. Closer to home, explore the many walking trails within Glenrock State Conservation Area or if you prefer to be on two wheels, the Fernleigh Track offers 27 kilometres of shared pathway and scenic views.
4. Cook up a storm with local produce
Experiment with new recipes or indulge in comfort foods. Set off on a Saturday morning to pick up a bundle of fresh produce at Lake Macquarie City Farmers Markets. Dust off the slow cooker and cook up a hearty stew or soup (hopefully you picked up some fresh sourdough at the markets). If you'd rather leave the cooking to the experts, Lake Mac is home to 8 at Trinity, TINTA Belmont and Brownsugar, which are some of the best restaurants in the region.
5. Pick up a paintbrush and release your inner Picasso
Get inspired by the local art scene across the city and discover exhibitions featuring both local and national artists. With workshops and art classes available at Museum of Art and Culture, yapang, get creative with arts and crafts projects. Unleash your creativity and try your hand at painting. Or for the perfect setting, the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima provides a contemporary space for exhibitions and performances, in the heart of Speers Point Park.
6. Support your local markets
Keep an eye out for events and markets happening in Lake Macquarie. From farmers markets to arts and crafts festivals, there's always something happening where you can engage with the local community and discover unique products.
7. Escape into the pages
Did you know you don’t need to leave the house to explore Lake Mac Libraries’ catalogue? Download the library app and take advantage of rainy days to soak in stories, with over 120,000 items to choose from. For extra cosiness, download your favourite book or playlist and cosy up with a warm blanket and hot chocolate on those cold and rainy days.
8. Get your heart pumping
Stay active by exercising at home. Follow workout videos, practice yoga, or try indoor exercises like jumping jacks, lunges, or dancing to keep yourself energised and fit.
9. Cultivate your green thumb
With a temperate climate, Lake Mac is perfect for keeping the garden sprouting year-round. Fresh air and getting your hands dirty help improve wellbeing and boost brain function. Short of space at home? Your local community garden is the perfect place to connect with nature and likeminded people.
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