Dudley Beach one of Australia’s best

Published on 31 January 2022

It’s official – Dudley Beach in Lake Macquarie is one of Australia’s most spectacular stretches of coastline.

The picturesque destination has prevailed over more than 11,000 candidates to be named one of the nation’s top 20 beaches by Tourism Australia’s official beach ambassador Brad Farmer.

Dudley Beach was the only NSW beach between Jervis Bay and South West Rocks to make the cut.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the beach’s unspoilt wilderness, with green coastal bushland meeting golden dunes and turquoise waters, had been one of the city’s best-kept secrets for years.

“With its iconic shark tower and easy access, Redhead Beach often gets the limelight – and for good reason,” Cr Fraser said.

“But this accolade demonstrates that the rest of Australia is waking up to the incredible beauty of the beaches we’re so lucky to have right along the Lake Macquarie coast.”

Dudley Beach is unpatrolled, so swimming is not recommended.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife manage the beach and its facilities, which recently underwent improvements including formalised parking, a new access ramp, picnic shelters and a surf viewing platform.

NPWS Lower Hunter Area Manager Mitchell Carter said Dudley Beach had been growing in popularity for some years.

“NPWS staff have worked hard to conserve this treasured spot surrounded by relatively unspoilt bushland, which is part of its allure,” he said.

The beach sits within the 500ha Glenrock State Conservation Area – one of the most-visited national parks in NSW.

“Glenrock is valued because of its Aboriginal heritage, threatened species such as squirrel gliders and endangered ecological communities including littoral rainforest,” Mr Carter said.

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Arts, Culture and Tourism Jacqui Hemsley said the beach was a popular site for surfing, strolling and sightseeing.

“The beach itself, and the rock platforms at its northern end, provide endless amazing opportunities to enjoy nature, capture fantastic photos and appreciate what our coast has to offer,” she said.

Misery Beach in Western Australia topped this year’s list, with a total six NSW beaches included in the top 20.