Best Beach in Lake Macquarie

"South of the city centre, this magnificent, wide stretch of sand has excellent surfing conditions and is the home strand of the legendary Aussie surfer Mark Richards. At the southern end is a huge sea pool."

"Although it’s not technically in Newcastle, it’s up the road in Port Stephens so we consider it a regional beach. Little Beach is just around from the tourist hub of Nelson Bay. This peaceful harbour beach is perfect for littlies who will love playing in the sand or splashing in the calm water."

"Kids will enjoy splashing in the beachside creek and rock pools. Redhead Beach is home to Redhead Surf Lifesaving Club."

"When long term tenant Kiwi Waffle'n'Cones departed this Zaara Street space, the children of Newcastle’s East End wept and had to make do with regular old Icy Poles (true story). Fast forward to August this year and there’s rejoicing once more with the opening of East End Ice Creamery in this popular post beach hang. Try the perennial favourite super fudge brownie, classic hokey pokey or if you’re feeling adventurous, order a Sarsaparilla spider."

"And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you pop into East End Ice Creamery for your daily dose of ice-cream. Supplied by Serendipity, the premium ingredients and delicious 36 flavours will be sure to make you take a few trips to get a taste of everything. Their Signature ice-cream bubble-gum is packed with beetroot for the colouring but don’t worry folks you can’t taste it."

"Always a safe bet, this old-school dairy bar has been operating since 1957 and has got you covered with classic Peter’s ice-cream and a cool milkshake if you’re on the go. Rocking the iconic sign on the corner of Tudor and Webster street, it’s hard to miss and easy to pop in for all your classic ice-cream needs.More Info: click here"

"146 Denison Street, Hamilton Have you ever thought "This steak could do with more fries?". Well, the newly renovated historic pub in Hamilton has the answer. As part of the bistro's daily specials, the weekly Wednesday steak night includes bottomless fries."

"Of all the Lake Macquarie beaches, Blacksmiths Beach is considered the most family-friendly. Located at the southern end of a long stretch of coastline, Blacksmiths Beach is an east-facing patrolled beach. Due to the breakwall, it enjoys calmer conditions than neighbouring beaches."