Swimming Spots

Beaches

Redhead Beach

Known for its stunning cliffs, rocky outcrops and iconic shark tower, Redhead Beach is a popular spot for swimming, fishing and surfing. Lifeguard patrols throughout summer.

Catherine Hill Bay beach

Step back in time when you visit the heritage village of Catherine Hill Bay. The beach has the unusual feature of a large coal-loading jetty. Lifeguard patrols throughout summer.

Blacksmiths Beach

Blacksmiths Beach, located at the southern end of a nine-mile stretch of coastline, is a popular spot for families with a kiosk, BBQ facilities, picnic tables and a playground. Lifeguards patrols throughout summer. 

Dudley Beach

After winding through the Bombala walking track in Glenrock State Conservation Area, step onto the sandy shores of Dudley Beach, a great spot for swimming, fishing or surfing. At the southern end of the beach, you can find a fossilised forest in the rock platform at low tide. This secluded beach is not patrolled by lifeguards but is a great reward after finishing the Bombala walking track, which takes in scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Caves Beach

Caves Beach, five minutes from Swansea, features a network of sea caves at the southern end of the beach, which can be explored at low tide. With barbecue facilities, picnic areas, public amenities and a kiosk, Caves Beach, is a great place to spend a day out with your family.

Grannies Pool

Grannies Pool is a popular swimming spot for families with young children. It’s a naturally occurring tidal pool on the Blacksmiths side of the Swansea channel lake entrance.  A gap in the breakwall allows water from the channel to pool into a sandy area. 

Naru Beach Reserve 

One of Lake Macquarie’s hidden gems located between Blacksmiths and Belmont. A windy dirt road through a rainforest leads to Naru Beach, perfect for stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming. A white sandy beach with views across the lake, this is a great spot to enjoy a sunset picnic.

Belmont baths

Enclosed lake swimming area at Brooks Parade with jetty, ramp and deep water platform. 

Pools

Lake Macquarie is home to six swim centres located across both the eastern and western sides of the lake. Some centres offer accessible facilities, heated pools, and a variety of programs including learn-to-swim classes and aqua fitness sessions.

To find out more about each swim centre and what they offer, click the link below.