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Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake just got an upgrade

Credit: Destination NSW

Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
One of Lake Macquarie’s most popular waterfronts just got a major makeover.

Sweeping surf beaches with unique rock formations, scenic walking tracks, incredible dining options, a laid-back atmosphere: there are plenty of reasons to holiday in Lake Macquarie. But one of the most fascinating features, and the area’s namesake, is Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake – and the water’s edge just got a $2.8 million makeover.

Exploring the lake

a family walking out onto the old belmont wharf
Take a boat tour, or push out on your own. (Credit: Destination NSW)

This expansive lake cuts a striking, irregular shape through the land. Connected to the Tasman Sea via the Swansea Channel, its calm waters are perfect for watersports. You’ll find plenty of places to hire kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, or join a tour – there are even night-time tour options.

It’s also a renowned boating and sailing destination (whether you’re heading out in your own, or joining a tour), which makes this renewed wharf even more exciting.

“Enjoying the lake is a pivotal part of life in Lake Macquarie, so it’s critical we continue to deliver modern, accessible infrastructure that makes it easy for our community to get on and around the water and do what they love," said Lake Macquarie Mayor, Adam Shultz.

The new Belmont wharf

aerial of the new belmont wharf
The new wharf is longer and better.

For the last 50 years, Belmont has enjoyed a timber jetty, jutting out into the lake. This has quickly become one of the most popular waterfront hubs in the area, offering waterfront dining, scenic walks and biking trails and plenty of watersports.

Now, it’s been upgraded to be longer, stronger and better equipped to weather the elements. Not to mention, a new pump-out facility to help protect the environment (also great news for swimmers diving into the 70-metre netted Belmont Baths).

“This new wharf will serve the community for many years to come, offering a purpose-built place to access activities on the lake and take in the spectacular scenery," said Shultz.

“Lake Macquarie is made for days on the water, and now Belmont Street has a wharf to match," agreed Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley.

The wharf is a great, scenic stop along the popular seven-kilometre walking/cycling track Green Point Foreshore Reserve. Follow the lake foreshore between Belmont and Valentine, through bushland and ocean boardwalks, learning local history along the way.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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Things to do in Belmont

a couple wlaking along Green Point Foreshore Reserve
Follow the seven-kilometre Green Point Foreshore Reserve. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Of course, the new wharf isn’t the only reason to stop in Belmont.

Once a BHP mining site, the Belmont Wetlands take up 240 hectares of a larger coastal reserve. The perfect place for bird watching, with over 140 native and naturalised bird species having been spotted there. Keep your eyes peeled as you follow the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track, wandering over raised platforms and walk/cycling paths.

Belmont 16s Sailing Club is popular with locals and visitors for delicious meals served with a side of lake-edge views. There are a few options to choose from. For the best views and casual bites, stop into Martha Drink & Dine, or try fresh seasonal meals at the over-water SALT Kitchen. Just need a coffee fix? Pop into Good One, it’s a local favourite.

The details

bird flying aorund the old belmont wharf
The old wooden wharf stood for just over 50 years. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Where: Brooks Parade, Belmont
When: Open now.

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Kassia Byrnes
Kassia Byrnes is the Native Content Editor for Australian Traveller and International Traveller. She's come a long way since writing in her diary about family trips to Grandma's. After graduating a BA of Communication from University of Technology Sydney, she has been writing about her travels (and more) professionally for over 10 years for titles like AWOL, News.com.au, Pedestrian.TV, Body + Soul and Punkee. She's addicted to travel but has a terrible sense of direction, so you can usually find her getting lost somewhere new around the world. Luckily, she loves to explore and have new adventures – whether that’s exploring the backstreets, bungee jumping off a bridge or hiking for days. You can follow her adventures on Instagram @probably_kassia.
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How to spend a restorative weekend on the Central Coast

    Rachael Thompson Rachael Thompson
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    Leave the frenetic pace of city life behind for a weekend of relaxation and entertainment on the Central Coast.

    Home to more than 40 idyllic beaches, an eco-certified wilderness and a burgeoning hospitality scene, the Central Coast is a favoured holiday destination for good reason. Located just 90 minutes north of Sydney, you can easily enjoy a day trip here. But with so much to offer, this coastal haven deserves at least a weekend of your time – especially when a stay at Encore by Mingara makes lingering so effortless.

    Here’s how to spend a memorable weekend on the Central Coast discovering its best offerings.

    Day 1

    Afternoon

    Modern, comfortable room interiors at Encore by Mingara, designed for a restful stay on the Central Coast.
    Savour a slow morning before heading home.

    Holiday mode can be switched on as soon as you check into Encore by Mingara, a centrally located boutique hotel in Tumbi Umbi. Loved for its sleek rooms, diverse offerings and unbeatable location, in 2026 the property even received the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award. Taking cues from its coastal surrounds, the hotel’s design is luxurious yet welcoming. A sophisticated palette of ocean blues, ochre and sand tones is complemented by light joinery and punctuated by abstract artworks by the hotel’s artist in residence, Sarah Isbel Hill.

    As the hotel is conveniently found in the Mingara Destination Precinct, you can spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the property’s impressive offerings. Energise the body at Mingara Recreation Club – complete with a world-class gym and Olympic-sized swimming pool – or pop into one of many restaurants or bars. You can also grab a wine from the bottle shop to imbibe in the comfort of your luxurious Harmony or Bravo suite; these generously sized rooms feature plush king beds, separate lounge spaces and dedicated working areas.

    Evening

    couple dining inside restaurant at encore by mingara
    Treat yourself to an evening of great food and cocktails.

    There’s no need to venture out when your hotel gives you access to fantastic dining options. Allow plenty of time to savour the culinary dishes at modern Australian restaurant, Hadley’s. Helmed by chef Peter Streckfuss, the relaxed eatery’s menu spans rib-sticking bites such as wood-fired pizzas and chicken parmigiana through to premium meats and fresh seafood. Pair them with the solid line-up of Australian and international wines.

    Mosey over to Hadley’s Bar for a post-dinner nightcap. The stylish cocktail lounge’s mixologists shake up masterful tipples using the bar’s extensive spirit collection, as well as pouring local craft beers and fine wines.   

    Day 2

    Morning

    Waterfall along the Girrakool Loop Track, at the Brisbane Water National Park, on the Central Coast.
    Explore the Central Coast’s great outdoors. (Image: Destination NSW)

    With so much happening onsite, it’s tempting to stay put, but early birds can start their day by catching the sunrise at nearby Toowoon Bay, where a vivid display of warm tones is reflected in the calm waters.

    Back at Mingara Recreation Club, top up your caffeine levels and try treats including scrolls, cakes, scones and tarts at The Roasted Berry. Or settle in for smashed avo or a mushroom bruschetta.

    Fuelled and ready to go, spend some time exploring the Central Coast’s natural beauty. The region is a playground for outdoor lovers who can discover the Brisbane Water National Park, a haven for hiking, cycling and fishing. The 12,000-hectare reserve features stunning waterfalls, including the three-tiered Somersby Falls, and vantage points such as the Staples Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of Brisbane Water and Woy Woy Bay.

    Afternoon

    Friends enjoying a tour through Distillery Botanica, Erina.
    Sip the flavours of Distillery Botanica. (Image: Destination NSW)

    A well-deserved lunch in the garden at Distillery Botanica awaits just a 20-minute drive away. The brainchild of herbalist and master distiller Philip Moore, this innovative distillery is found in a lush landscape and produces a range of botanically infused craft spirits. Tuck into bruschetta, toasted sandwiches and charcuterie boards, paired with standout concoctions like the Framboise Martini with Botanica Vodka or Botanica Raspberry Liqueur, vanilla, lime and pineapple.

    Evening

    Head back to Encore by Mingara to freshen up for dinner at the onsite restaurant, Ming Dragon. The Chinese eatery offers a traditional yum cha experience with succulent favourites such as sweet and sour pork and steamed prawn dumplings.

    End the night on a high note with entertainment at Mingara Recreation Club. The jam-packed schedule includes live music, major touring acts and big-name tribute band performances, such as Live Baby Live: The INXS Tribute Show.

    Morning

    Breakfast at The Roasted Berry encore by mingara
    Enjoy breakfast at The Roasted Berry.

    The dreamy rooms at Encore by Mingara make sleeping in a little too easy, so take the morning at your own pace with a lie-in and a final swim or a yoga or pilates class. Amble down to The Roasted Berry for another delicious breakfast before your departure.

    Afternoon

    Guest examining a freshly farmed pearl on a tour of the Broken Bay Pearl Farm, Mooney Mooney.
    End your escape with a pearl farm visit. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Another highlight of the Central Coast is the Broken Bay Pearl Farm on the Lower Hawkesbury River, a must-visit on your way home. Head to their ‘shellar door’ and join a tour out on the water, where you’ll discover their working oyster leases and indulge in the freshest Australian Akoya, Angasi and Sydney rock oysters. You’ll also get to witness a live pearl harvest and learn the fine art of pearl grading. Those with an appetite can also enjoy a gourmet grazing lunch while soaking up scenic river views. Commemorate the weekend with an elegant pearl memento from the farm’s shop.

    Start planning a Central Coast weekend at your own pace at encorebymingara.com.au.