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Redhead Beach

Natural Attractions

Redhead Beach

Redhead Beach is at the northern end of a nine mile stretch of coastline, and is known for its stunning cliffs, rocky outcrops and shark tower. Redhead is patrolled in the warmer months, is home to the Redhead Surf Life Saving Club, and is popular with swimmers and surfers alike. Plenty of parking is available as well as public toilets and cafe "Cargo Espresso Bar". Dog friendly with designated on - leash and off - leash areas. Nearby is the pump track for keen bikers and skateboarders, Webs Park playground and Owens Walkway which is an easy boardwalk and wheelchair accessible.

Swansea NSW

0.8 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

4.1 km away

Fernleigh Track — Image credit: Lake Macquarie City Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Fernleigh Track

The Fernleigh Track is the Hunter region’s most popular shared pathway. The 15-kilometre route along a disused coal haul rail line passes through the suburbs of Adamstown, Kahibah, Whitebridge, Redhead, Jewells and ends near Belmont TAFE, taking in the Glenrock State Conservation Area, Awabakal Nature Reserve and Belmont Wetlands State Park. The Fernleigh Track is a joint project of Lake Macquarie City Council and the City of Newcastle, with funding provided by both councils and State and Federal Government grants. The Fernleigh Track forms part of the Coastline R1 Regional Cycleway, part of the Greater Newcastle Principal Bicycle Network The track is suitable for all fitness levels and is a safe off-road link between residential areas and employment hubs. Features include former stations and heritage railway relics dotting the track and the Fernleigh Tunnel linking Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.

Whitebridge NSW

4.6 km away

Dudley Beach

Natural Attractions

Dudley Beach

Dudley Beach is a scenic and secluded stretch of coastline nestled within Glenrock State Conservation Area, offering visitors a sense of escape just minutes from the city. Renowned for its wild coastal beauty, the beach is framed by rolling sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and ancient rock platforms where fossils can be found. It is a popular destination for experienced surfers, photographers, and nature lovers drawn to its dramatic ocean views and untamed landscape. The beach is unpatrolled and exposed to strong rips and powerful surf, making swimming hazardous for inexperienced swimmers. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the coastline from the shore or explore the surrounding walking tracks that showcase the area's diverse natural environment. Managed by NSW National Parks, it offers picnicking, walking, and 4WD access, featuring facilities like parking and picnic shelters, with the southern end known for its unique rock formations and blowhole at high tide.

Whitebridge NSW

4.8 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

5.5 km away

Leggy Point Loop Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Leggy Point Loop Walking Track

Leggy Point loop walking track weaves through open coastal forest with some jaw-dropping coastal views in Glenrock State Conservation Area. The walking track is ideal for active nature lovers with wildflower displays and opportunities for birdwatching, swimming and surfing. Emerging at Elvis Rock, gaze along the coastline to Newcastle to the north. Be sure to look for whales during their annual migration. You can head to Glenrock Beach for a swim or surf after passing Awabakal Aboriginal midden, at the mouth of Glenrock Lagoon. The forest offers a mix of banksia, acacia, spotted gum, iron bark and white mahogany trees. During spring, look for pretty yellow donkey orchids, named for their two large top petals. Large skinks, known as land mullets, are also common in this area of the park.

Whitebridge NSW

5.8 km away

Chipmunks Playland & Cafe - Entrance — Image credit: Chipmunks Playland & Cafe

Amusement and Theme Parks

Chipmunks Playland and Cafe Belmont

Chipmunks Playland and Café Belmont is a vibrant indoor play centre designed for children aged 0–11, offering a safe, fun and engaging environment for families in the Lake Macquarie region. The centre is thoughtfully divided into three age-appropriate zones: a Baby Zone for little ones aged 0–2, a Mini Zone for toddlers aged 0–4, and a large Main Zone for older children up to 11. Each space is packed with colourful play equipment, climbing structures and a giant ball pit that keeps kids entertained for hours. One of the standout features of Chipmunks Belmont is its flexibility - there are no time limits on play, so families can stay as long as they like without feeling rushed. The venue is fully enclosed, air-conditioned and designed with safety in mind, giving parents peace of mind while their children explore and play. Chipmunks Belmont is also a popular destination for birthday parties, offering packages to suit every celebration style, including Basic, Bash and Bonanza options. With a variety of fun themes available, families can create a memorable party experience with minimal stress. For larger celebrations, private venue hire is available, giving guests exclusive access to the entire centre. Alongside the play areas, the on-site café serves freshly made food and barista-quality coffee, making it just as enjoyable for adults as it is for kids.

Belmont NSW

5.8 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

5.9 km away

Burwood Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Burwood Trail

From high on the escarpment, you can look down at historic Burwood Colliery. It was first excavated in the 19th century, around 1861. It’s now well-preserved and part of the State Heritage register. Listen for the call of bellbirds. Look for the male regent bowerbird, with its glossy black and bright yellow plumage. Echidnas can also been seen out foraging at dawn or dusk. The trail begins on Scout Camp Road above the scout camp. You'll see the track entry opposite the water tank. Walkers can join Yuelarbah walking track at the western end of the track or the Leggy Point loop walking track at the eastern end, which also links to Glenrock Beach. Horse riders can also use this trail, which joins into a network of others in the park.

Whitebridge NSW

6.1 km away

Yuelarbah Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Shaun Sursok/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Yuelarbah Walking Track

Part of the Great North walk that stretches 250 kilometres from Newcastle to Sydney, the Yuelarbah walking track is one of the highlights of Glenrock State Conservation Area. Commencing at the wheelchair accessible raised boardwalk, the scenic track leads you along Flaggy Creek, through wet gullies and coastal rainforest, and if that's not enough, you'll pass two waterfalls before finishing at Glenrock Beach. About halfway along you’ll find Leichhardt’s lookout which offers excellent views over Glenrock Lagoon. It’s a great option for a day walk, and be sure you take a picnic lunch with you; there are a few great spots to stop for a break along the walk, including the picnic area at Flaggy Creek and the beach or headlands of Glenrock Beach.

Whitebridge NSW

6.1 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

6.2 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

6.2 km away

Glenrock State Conservation Area

National Parks and Reserves

Glenrock State Conservation Area

Located between Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, Glenrock State Conservation Area offers an astounding array of recreational opportunities. Glenrock embraces the last surviving pocket of coastal rainforest in the region, home to a range of animals, like bandicoots, bats and gliders. So remember to leave your pets at home. The park also protects a number of ancient Aboriginal sites. One of the city's most popular beaches lies within the park's boundaries, but there is much more here than sand and surf. Take your mountain bike and explore the scenic cycling trails, walk the rainforest and waterfall tracks, launch a hang glider off the cliffs or enjoy a spot of fishing.

Highfields NSW

6.5 km away

Glenrock Mountain Biking Trails — Image credit: Photo: Shaun Sursok

Natural Attractions

Glenrock Mountain Biking Trails

Glenrock State Conservation Area provides excellent opportunities for mountain bike riding. With 14 kilometres of purpose-built bike trails and 20 kilometres of linked management trails in the northern section of the park, allow a day to explore the area. The mountain bike tracks will take you on a windy ride through open forest and woodlands and, in combination with the trail network, provide access to Burwood Beach, Leichhardt’s lookout and the waterfalls. The trails are graded – green circle for beginners, blue square for intermediate and black diamond for advanced, so there is bound to be one that suits your level. Biking trails are all signed, so if you can’t see a sign it means that riding is not permitted. Large bike maps are installed at major entrances.

Highfields NSW

6.8 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

7.8 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

7.9 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

8.1 km away

Arial Shot Kayaking Naru Beach — Image credit: Lake Macquarie Tourism

Natural Attractions

Naru Beach

Known for its stunning beauty and tranquillity, Naru Beach is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Macquarie with its white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Take a dip in the calm waters, perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day. Paddleboarding is also a popular pastime here, allowing you to explore the serene lake while taking in the breathtaking views. If you have a boat or kayak, you can even venture out to the nearby uninhabited sand islands for a unique island-hopping experience. Use Marks Point Boat Ramp located next to the beach to launch your boat. Naru Beach is a haven for families, offering shallow swimming areas that are ideal for kids. However, it's important to note that there are often strong currents in the channels and there have been sightings of the blue-ringed octopus, so supervision is advised. While the beach is relatively small, there is ample space to relax and unwind. Just be sure to bring your own shade, as there are no picnic facilities or amenities available on-site.

Marks Point NSW

8.2 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

8.2 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

8.2 km away

Exterior of centre — Image credit: Westfield Kotara

Shopping and Markets

Westfield Kotara

Westfield Kotara is Newcastle's premier shopping, dining, and lifestyle destination. Home to over 200 stores, it offers a mix of leading fashion, beauty, and homeware brands alongside a dynamic dining precinct. The Rooftop features a curated selection of restaurants and entertainment, creating the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you're browsing flagship retailers, indulging in gourmet eats, or enjoying family-friendly experiences, Westfield Kotara is where style, flavour, and community come together.

Kotara NSW

8.3 km away

Merewether Ocean Baths — Image credit: City of Newcastle

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Merewether Ocean Baths

Opened in 1935, Merewether Ocean Baths are the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere. Free to access, and hugely popular among visitors and locals alike, the Merewether Ocean Baths are perfect to cool off, enjoy some wave-free frolicking, and enjoy an ocean-side ice cream or coffee. The first baths were built in 1926, measuring 140 feet (43 metres) long, on the shelf below Henderson Parade. Located to the north of the existing baths and in front of Merewether Surf House, the baths became known as the Ladies Pool. Today the remnants of the small pool are dwarfed alongside the existing Merewether Baths. For those with a photography hobby, Merewether Ocean Baths at sunrise are not to be missed. Capture the iconic lanes, with locals in the background doing their laps. Merewether Ocean Baths are cleaned every Thursday and closed ALL day to allow adequate time for all cleaning and maintenance to occur.

Merewether NSW

8.3 km away

Merewether Beach — Image credit: City of Newcastle

Natural Attractions

Merewether Beach

The iconic Merewether Beach is home to the international surfing competition, Surfest. It is part of a beach reserve that stretches from Dixon Park in the north to Burwood Beach in the south - with superb views in all directions. Enjoy a coffee at a beachside cafe and watch as locals walk their dogs, parents juggle caffeine and kids with sandy hair and the surfers' roll-up by the dozen. Walk a bit further down the beach promenade, and you'll find Merewether Ocean Baths, the largest Ocean Baths complex in the Southern Hemisphere. Merewether Beach is the southern end of the popular Bathers Way walk.

Merewether NSW

8.5 km away

Koala exhbit — Image credit: Blackbutt Reserve

Natural Attractions

Blackbutt Reserve

Blackbutt Reserve occupies approximately 182 hectares of land, six kilometres from Newcastle city centre. It offers visitors many opportunities to link recreational activities and environmental education with conservation and research programs. Blackbutt Reserve is an undulating natural environment consisting of peaceful picnic settings with electric barbecues, open spaces, nature trails, and a diverse range of habitats and ecosystems. It also features wildlife exhibits that are modern, and spacious and allows close viewing of the animals, including koalas, wombats, native birds, emus and kangaroos. There is a range of wildlife feeding and reptile shows at Blackbutt Reserve, please check the website for the most up-to-date information. Visit the newly constructed cafe for a coffee amongst the trees.

Kotara NSW

8.9 km away

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