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Museum of Art and Culture, yapang front entrance — Image credit: Museum of Art and Culture, yapang

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Museum of Art and Culture, yapang

The Museum of Art and Culture, yapang (MAC yapang) is an art museum situated on the shores of Lake Macquarie. The art museum presents an ever-changing program of exhibitions, events and visual arts programs throughout the year, and offers a retail shop and cafe. The word yapang (pronounced yar pung) means journey/pathway in Awabakal and is the name given to a new dedicated Aboriginal program within the Museum of Art and Culture Lake Macquarie, yapang (MAC). The initiative is a natural progression of the 19-year relationship between the art museum and Aboriginal Reference Group. It is surrounded by five hectares of leafy grounds containing a sculpture garden.

Booragul NSW

0.7 km away

Awaba Bay Foreshore Walk — Image credit: Photo: Susan Davis/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Awaba Bay Foreshore Walk

Discover why the locals love living here and take Awaba Bay Foreshore walk. Listen to the birds first thing in the morning, enjoy the views of the sparkling lake, and feel the cool breeze off the water on a warm day. You’ll hear the call of frogs and the laughter of kookaburras, and see lorikeets and sea eagles above the tree tops – don’t forget your binoculars for birdwatching. As you walk along the shore, perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to spot the beautiful dolphins and green sea turtles that call Lake Macquarie home. Diverse habitats make this an interesting and varied walk; you’ll pass a swamp complex between Alexanders picnic area and Hepplewhites Shack, as well as tall open forest and the grassy areas of the picnic sites. Take the time to stop at one of these and enjoy the peace of this beautiful place, so special to locals and visitors alike.

Bolton Point NSW

0.9 km away

ROWING ON STUNNING LAKE MACQUARIE — Image credit: Lake Macquarie Rowing Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Lake Macquarie Rowing Club

Rowing on the stunning Lake Macquarie. Lake Macquarie Rowing Club is a welcoming, community-based club located at Booragul on the northern shore of the lake. They offer rowing opportunities for all ages and abilities—from Learn to Row programs and beginners to those keen to compete locally, at State or National level. With regular training sessions and social rows throughout the week, there's no better way to experience the stunning surrounds of Lake Macquarie than from a rowing scull at sunrise. Whether you're new to the sport or returning after a break, they invite you to join them on the water and be part of their friendly and supportive rowing community.

Booragul NSW

1.0 km away

Marmong Picnic Area — Image credit: Photo: Ashley Deveridge

Natural Attractions

Marmong Picnic Area

Nestled in the bush within Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area, you’ll find idyllic Marmong picnic area. It’s perfect for families and those looking for a moment of serenity by the lake, yet there’s also plenty to do. It’s a beautiful spot to stop for a bite to eat while bushwalking along Awaba Bay Foreshore walk. With an abundance of birdlife, it’s also a great place to get out the binoculars for a bit of birdwatching. You can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake or throw in a line and try your luck fishing. It's a great paddling destination if you have your own kayak or canoe and, if you’re out on the water, you might catch a glimpse of a dolphin or a sea turtle. For those who just want to relax, there's plenty of soft, grassy patches to spread out a blanket, admire the scenic views across the lake and laze away the day under the trees with a good book.

Bolton Point NSW

1.1 km away

Lake Macquarie Variety Playground — Image credit: Lake Macquarie Tourism

Parks and Gardens

Lake Macquarie Variety Playground

Take the kids to the award-winning Lake Macquarie Variety Playground at Speers Point Park. This fully fenced, two-hectare playground caters to the needs of children of all ages and abilities. In 2011, the Playground was awarded 'Best Play Space in Australia'. Highlights of the playground are the nine-metre giant spiral slide kids will ride again and again, plus a bike circuit and double flying fox. Pack a picnic and enjoy the grassy expanses of the lakeside park, or enjoy a meal from the on-site cafe.

Speers Point NSW

1.9 km away

Speers Point Park

Parks and Gardens

Speers Point Park

The Lake Macquarie foreshore has its fair share of green spaces. Perhaps the prettiest of them all is the Speers Point Park. There are plenty of shady spots to lay out a picnic rug, plus barbecues and tables should you wish to make a day of it. It's one stop on the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail, linking artworks over five water-hugging kilometres. The piece to view here is the striking public art installation Chimera, a 12-metre tower topped with a stainless-steel wind vane that resembles a stylised ship. Another reason to visit the park is for the Variety Playground, which regularly takes home awards as one of Australia's best. Kids can burn energy on climbing walls, spiderweb nets, 9-metre high slides and in water-play areas. The best bit? It has been designed for children of all abilities. Other features include shared pathways, public jetty, paved promenade and a fenced dog exercise area. Individual areas or the whole park are available for hire for events such as wedding ceremonies, parties, company picnics and more. Hire is required when using jumping castles, animal farms and amusement rides or if professional catering is supplied. Bookings are not taken for barbecue shelters. The Heritage Shed is open and available for bookings. Fees will be calculated by council staff after your booking has been received.

Speers Point NSW

1.9 km away

SPASC Clubhouse

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Speers Point Amateur Sailing Club Inc

With a history dating back to at least 1905, the Speers Point Amateur Sailing Club (SPASC) is located within Speers Point Park at the northern end of beautiful Lake Macquarie. Enjoy the incredible views of the Lake from SPASC's Clubhouse balcony, set in a premier sailing location. SPASC prides itself on being a welcoming and friendly club that enthusiastically engages with sailors from all walks of life regardless of age or ability. The club attained Australian Sailing Discover Sailing Centre accreditation in 2022 and now has four accredited Dinghy Instructors and five Assistant Dinghy Instructors to support their Junior Sailing and Adult Learn to Sail Programs that run from October to March each summer season. The annual Sailing Program at SPASC includes both Friday Twilight and Saturday afternoon races from early September to Anzac Day each year including the annual 14’Cat and Monohull Regatta, Catagatta, Marathon/Pulbah Island Race and Anzac Day Regatta.

Speers Point NSW

2.0 km away

See sculptures along the lake

Parks and Gardens

Creative Lake Sculpture Trail

Lake Macquarie’s love affair with outdoor art is nowhere better on display than with the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail, a five-kilometre trail linking larger-than-life artworks along the foreshore. In the popular precincts of Speers Point, Warners Bay and Eleebana, you’ll discover an eclectic collection of contemporary artworks – from sculptures to conceptual installations and 3D murals – by Australian and international artists including Guan Wei, Guy Maestri, Alex Seton, Naidee Changmoh and Antone Bruinsma. You can walk, bike and even rollerblade between the sites via the Warners Bay Foreshore Shared Pathway, or drive between them with on and some off-street parking available Download the Culture Trails guide from the Lake Macquarie City Council website to not only discover what you might see while wandering the route but also explore other Lake Macquarie cultural highlights, including galleries and historic sites.

Warners Bay NSW

2.4 km away

Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba

Entertainment Venues

Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba

Warners Bay Theatre is a venue for local and visiting performing arts events including live music, theatre, dance, opera and presentations. The theatre is a short stroll to restaurants and bars along Warners Bay foreshore, making this the perfect location for dinner and a show. The Warners Bay Theatre is a 300-capacity theatre available for professional and amateur musical, theatre, dance, and cultural groups to host and perform quality stage productions.

Warners Bay NSW

2.6 km away

Morning Song — Image credit: K Pearson

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Newcastle and Lake Mac Art Exhibition

This is an Exhibition of works by members of the Society. All works are original and are local artists. Paintings include mediums such as oils, watercolour, acrylic, pencil, pastel and mixed media. Come in and have a browse. The Society has been in Newcastle and Lake Mac for almost 100 years and has major Art Exhibitions each year. For further information, please email.

Warners Bay NSW

2.8 km away

Station Master's Cottage Fassifern — Image credit: Kate Belton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Tinkat Alley Art Studio

Tinkat Alley Art Stufio is a working art studio and art gallery in the heritage listed Fassifern Station Master's Cottage. Come along and see artists at work in the studio. They also hold classes and demonstrations. The gallery is in the old station master's cottage. You will find paintings in watercolour, acrylic, pastel, ink, oil and mixed media. The gallery also has glassware, pyrography, felt work, sculptures and jewelry . All the art in the gallery is the work of local Lake Macquarie artisans.

Fassifern NSW

3.6 km away

State of the art tenpin bowling lanes for the whole family to enjoy

Entertainment Venues

Dullboy's Social Co - Warners Bay

Dullboy's Social Co is here for the good times. The nights out, the weekend adventures, the laughs and the memory making. Because as they say, all work and no play makes jack a dull boy. Escape the everyday grind and do something unreal with their tenpin bowling lanes, outdoor mini golf course, video arcade, dodgem cars, modern Diner, and 18+ Barcadia! This multi-faceted entertainment venue is also the perfect place to throw an epic party! Whether you're doing some team building, celebrating a family milestone, or just looking to have a blast with your mates, Dullboy's has got you covered.

Warners Bay NSW

3.7 km away

Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima

This cutting-edge venue is a space where art and innovation come together. The Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima (MAP mima) is the newest addition to the exciting Lake Arts Precinct, offering a high-tech creative canvas for contemporary art and cementing Lake Macquarie’s place as a leading creative city. The ‘mima’ part of the name comes from an Awabakal word meaning ‘cause to stay’ – and it couldn’t be more appropriate for this venue, which sits on a lovely patch of green at Speers Point Park on the shores of the stunning body of water that is Lake Macquarie. Designed by University of Newcastle undergraduate architecture student Samantha Bailey, the building features a central gallery (The Cube) for exhibitions and large-scale multi-media experiences, as well as a series of other spaces, both indoors and out. Expect contemporary artworks that push boundaries, in a setting that’s both architecturally striking but also immersed in its natural surroundings.

Boolaroo NSW

4.0 km away

18th Hole

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Waratah Golf Club

Located near the beautiful shores of Lake Macquarie, Waratah Golf Club is one of the founding golf clubs in the Hunter region, with a proud place in Australian golfing history. The course features a traditional out and back design, flowing through tree lined fairways and natural landscapes, offering an authentic challenge without the modern convention of two separate 9 hole loops. With various tee options available, the course caters to golfers of all ages and skill levels. Waratah Golf Club is more than just a course. It is a welcoming community venue. The clubhouse includes a bar and bistro where members and guests can relax after their round, along with function spaces that are available for events, celebrations, and gatherings. Golfers are also supported by a fully stocked retail pro shop, offering quality equipment, apparel, and professional advice. Proud of its heritage yet focused on serving todays golfers and visitors, Waratah Golf Club remains a true destination for both the game and the community

Argenton NSW

4.3 km away

Toronto Baths

Natural Attractions

Toronto Baths

Toronto Baths is a much‑loved lakeside swimming spot set along the scenic foreshore of Lake Macquarie, popular with families and locals alike. Following upgrades completed in October 2024, the historic baths (operating since 1925) are now fully enclosed and feature new jetty decking, safety netting, multiple entry points, and an accessible ramp with handrails, creating a safer and more inclusive swimming experience. Visitors can enjoy a range of on‑site amenities, including toilets, outdoor showers, shaded picnic areas, and nearby parking. With cafés, the Toronto Foreshore Playground, and the revitalised waterfront promenade all within easy walking distance, Toronto Baths is an ideal place to swim, relax, and take in the tranquil lake views.

Toronto NSW

4.4 km away

Allettare Dezigns Art Fusion Studio — Image credit: Allettare Dezigns

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Allettare Dezigns Art Fusion Studio

Welcome to Allettare Dezigns Art Fusion Studio in Cardiff, NSW, located in the heart of Lake Macquarie! This vibrant, creative space where imagination knows no bounds, offers a variety of art workshops for all ages and skill levels, making it the perfect place for anyone eager to explore their artistic talents. Whether you're a beginner or experienced artist, their workshops include painting, resin, mixed media, and more, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. For kids, Allettare Dezigns offers fun and engaging workshops help develop artistic skills, boost confidence, and inspire self-expression. Owner and artist Chris leads junior artists through exciting projects that foster creativity while having fun. Adults can explore more specialised workshops allowing participants to dive deeper into techniques, refine skills, and experience the therapeutic benefits of art. The studio also showcases an eclectic collection of handmade goodies and original artwork for sale, from unique home décor to handcrafted jewellery there’s always something special to discover. Each item is crafted with care and passion, making them perfect gifts or additions to your home. Allettare Dezigns believe in the power of creativity to bring people together and inspire joy. Dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone can experience the joy of making and appreciating art. Visit them today and let your creativity flourish!

Cardiff NSW

4.8 km away

Green Point Foreshore Reserve

Natural Attractions

Green Point Foreshore Reserve

Green Point Foreshore Reserve is a scenic lakeside destination connecting Belmont and Valentine, offering a mix of easy foreshore walks, bushland trails, picnic areas, and stunning lake views. Visitors can enjoy a flat, shared pathway suitable for prams, wheelchairs, bikes, and scooters, or explore bush tracks with stairs and boardwalks winding through eucalyptus forest and small rainforest pockets. Highlights include the grassy lakeside point, a public jetty, and elevated lookouts such as Sea Eagle Lookout and Rocky High, which provide panoramic views across Lake Macquarie and are known for sightings of white‑bellied sea eagles. With picnic shelters, barbecues, toilets, calm waters for fishing and paddling, and interpretive signage sharing the area's coal‑mining and timber history, Green Point is an ideal destination for families, walkers, and nature lovers seeking a relaxed outdoor experience by the lake. Dogs are not permitted in the reserve or along the walking track.

Belmont NSW

5.7 km away

Windale Hub, bilyabayi

Entertainment Venues

Windale Hub, bilyabayi

The Windale Hub, bilyabayi is a high-tech facility featuring flexible social spaces and library functions. Designed as Windale’s community lounge room, it provides a safe, relaxing and welcoming space for people to come together to learn and create. Features include an upper library and lower library space with community lounge areas, reading lounges, small group study areas, a kids’ collection, a media collection and access to new technology. It also includes a range of adaptable community spaces including a large community hall opening out to a deck area, an activity room for gatherings and functions as well as a ‘maker space’ activities, a smaller sound-proof meeting room for possible use as a recording studio, offices, a commercial kitchen, car parking and landscaping.

Windale NSW

6.1 km away

Shared Track — Image credit: Lake Macquarie City Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track (FAST)

Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track (FAST) is a scenic extension of the popular Fernleigh Track, offering locals and visitors a peaceful route through the stunning Belmont Wetlands State Park and Belmont Lagoon Reserve. Perfect for walking, running, and cycling, this shared path connects Belmont to Blacksmiths, improving access to nature while supporting active lifestyles. Whether you're a local looking for a new way to explore or a visitor wanting to experience the beauty of the area, the FAST track is an ideal choice for outdoor recreation. Together, the Fernleigh Track and the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track provide a 27-kilometre continuous active transport route from Adamstown to Murrays Beach. The Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track forms part of the Coastline R1 Regional Cycleway, part of the Greater Newcastle Principle Bicycle Network. Features include an elevated boardwalk over Belmont Lagoon and a birdwatching loop. Start at the southern end of the existing Fernleigh Track in Belmont, with parking available near the old Belmont railway station or join the track from the Pacific Highway at Blacksmiths, making it convenient for surrounding areas.

Belmont NSW

7.0 km away

Belmont Baths

Natural Attractions

Belmont Baths

The baths are a great facility for people who enjoy swimming or simply relaxing by the beautiful lake. The facility incorporates protective mesh on all three sides, which encourages people to use the area for swimming. The area includes a new jetty that is 70 metres long, with a 45-metre-wide swimming enclosure and an access ramp to a deep-water platform for people with mobility restrictions. There are toilet facilities, cold showers, picnic tables and undercover areas. The amenities building also stores a mobi aquatic chair to borrow for wheelchair access into the baths (available upon council request). Nearby is a playground, ping pong table and cafes.

Belmont NSW

7.1 km away

Holey Moley Charlestown

Entertainment Venues

Holey Moley Charlestown

Newcastle, are you ready to putt your stuff? Holey Moley is the craziest round of mini-golf you’ve ever played! They’re a mini golf course and bar that brings fun to a new level. With two different nine-hole courses to choose from, you’ll putt your stuff around 18 uniquely themed holes. After you have worked up a thirst, settle in at their Caddyshack bar. With drinks, cocktails, tunes and great grub on offer, The Caddyshack will take care of all their off-the-green needs.

Charlestown NSW

7.1 km away

Strike Bowling Charlestown

Amusement and Theme Parks

Strike Bowling Charlestown

Situated over two levels and overlooking the South Piazza in Charlestown Square, Strike Bowling Charlestown is not your average bowling alley! Featuring eight bowling lanes, two private karaoke rooms, an amazing laser tag arena, a cocktail bar and an outdoor terrace, the entertainment options are endless. Plus, they're now slinging delicious old-school sandwiches courtesy of their pop-up mates at Rando Sandos.

Charlestown NSW

7.1 km away

Sugar Valley Library Museum volunteer tour — Image credit: Lake Macquarie City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Sugar Valley Library Museum - kirantakamyari

Sugar Valley Library Museum, kirantakamyari is a co-located museum and library in Cameron Park. Sugar Valley Library Museum is the first of its kind in Lake Macquarie, showcasing the rich history of West Wallsend. Developed in conjunction with the West Wallsend District Heritage Group, the exhibition presents the story of the region through enticing and immersive experiences and objects portraying the life and times of this unique township. The Museum contains interactive elements such as the Hunter's first virtual reality experience of an underground coal mine including oral histories from those who worked the site, historic objects from the West Wallsend and District Heritage Group’s collection and an engaging entertaining hands-on history experience. Younger visitors will also have the opportunity to get up close with history through the 'Play Museum' and the Discovery cabinets. Join a Sugar Valley Library Museum guided tour, with museum volunteers to learn more about the inaugural exhibition 'Westy: We Built this History'.

Cameron Park NSW

7.2 km away

Inside our Rathmines Heritage Centre on Opening Night — Image credit: Lake Macquarie City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Rathmines Heritage Centre

Based in Rathmines Theatre, Rathmines Heritage Centre hosts a range of exhibitions focused on the history of Rathmines RAAF base and the wider story of Lake Mac during World War II. Rathmines RAAF seaplane base played an essential role in the defence of Australia during WWII. From 1939 – 1962 thousands of people and hundreds of seaplanes operated and trained at the base. Rathmines RAAF seaplane base is the most intact surviving example of its type in Australia. Established in 1939 the base was the main centre for training during World War II. It was the largest flying boat base established in Australia and considered to be the ‘headquarters’ of flying boat operations during the war. Rathmines Heritage Centre tours are by appointment only. Explore the history of Rathmines further along the Rathmines RAAF Base Heritage Trail, a 1.1 kilometrem trail through Rathmines Park and along the foreshore of Catalina Bay. For further information about the importance of Rathmines RAAF base please visit the Lake Mac History website, which has a large and comprehensive archive of oral histories, photographs and documents.

Rathmines NSW

7.4 km away

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