Warners Bay

Curving around the shore of Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, Warners Bay is a vibrant hub for water sports and outdoor activities. Enjoy delicious cafes with water views and explore an eclectic sculpture trail featuring contemporary works by Australian artists.

Highlights

Things to do

The scenic waterfront esplanade runs for 9km from Lions Park in Eleebana to the Museum of Art and Culture (MAC). At the southern end is the impressive Red Bluff Boardwalk which juts out over the lake and is hundreds of metres long. There are three viewing platforms along the way. 

The path is perfect for walking, cycling and rollerblading. Positioned around the lake from Speers Point to Eleebana is the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail with a collection of contemporary artworks. Artists include Guan Wei, Guy Maestri, Alex Seton, Naidee Changmoh and Antone Bruinsma.

Bring your own bicycle – or hire two wheels from the self-service Automatic Bike Hire station or Lake Mac Kayak and Bike Hire – and cycle along the picturesque Watagans Cycle Track. The kids can also enjoy a picnic at the Lake Macquarie Variety Playground in Speers Point Park, where the giant spiral slide adds to the thrills.  

You’ll find plenty of fun things to do on the lake, like sailing, kayaking, fishing and stand-up paddleboarding, or visit stunning ocean beaches and explore magnificent national parks, all just a short drive away. 

Family enjoying cycling along the Watagans Cycle Track, Warners Bay, Lake Macquarie

Watagans Cycle Track, Warners Bay

Local markets & events

Homegrown Markets, the largest market in Lake Macquarie, are held on the first and third Sunday of every month in nearby Speers Point Park, a seven-minute drive from Warners Bay. Relax by the water with a picnic blanket and coffee while listening to local musicians. Warners Bay Markets can be found on the Warners Bay Foreshore on the third Saturday of the month, featuring stalls selling clothes, homewares, arts and crafts, fresh produce, and more.

The views from the foreshore attract thousands of runners every August for the Lake Macquarie Running Festival, a 10.5km fun run and 4km kids scamper. 

Children enjoying the playground, Speers Point, Lake Macquarie

Speers Point Park, Lake Macquarie

Where to eat & drink

Grab coffee and a toastie from Brennans or settle in for decadent waffles topped with Tim Tams, Cherry Ripe or Maltesers at Table 1 Espresso. For waterfront dining, Brownsugar Restaurant Bar and Functions serves fresh seafood, complemented by an extensive cocktail and wine selection.

Friends sitting at Brennans Cafe in Warners Bay, Lake Macquarie, North Coast

Brennans Cafe, Warners Bay

Getting there & where to stay

Warners Bay is just under two hours' drive north of Sydney and around 30 minutes from Newcastle. You can also take the train up the coast to nearby Booragul Station, which takes just under three hours, or fly into Newcastle Airport. Accommodation in Warners Bay includes a variety of hotels, motels, apartments and lakeside holiday parks to suit every visitor. 

Plan your trip