If you’re already dreaming of an idyllic beach escape this long weekend, we’ve got a local spot that deserves to be on your bucket list. Caves Beach, on the Swansea peninsula between Lake Macquarie and the Pacific Ocean, might just be one of the best beaches in the Lake Macquarie area with rock pools, caves and soft white sand. Popular for its namesake — several dramatic sea caves on the coastline, this beach can be reached in less than two hours from Sydney. It’s also perfect for families with BBQ facilities, picnic areas and the option to explore the sea caves at low tide.
Caves Beach, Lake Macquarie
While we love our Sydney beaches, they’re often jam-packed with people, a byproduct of being too popular. If you’re keen to escape the crowds and experience something new, you’ll want to keep this laidback stretch of land and picturesque caves on your radar.
It should be noted that while the caves can be accessed at low tide and are a great part of the beach to explore, during high tide, the entrance to the caves can be shrouded in crashing waves, hence making it unsafe to enter. To avoid disappointment, you can check tide times on the Bureau of Meteorology website. You can also find current surf conditions here.
Things to do at Caves Beach
You can find the caves, archways and chambers at the southern end of the beach and they’re totally Instagram-worthy so take a camera along. Although the caves are the main draw, there are plenty of other things to do at the beach including swimming and surfing and enjoying a picnic with a view. The Caves Beach Lookout is an excellent spot for scenic coastal views of the beach and beyond. There are also tidal pools and dunes to explore and if you want more from your trip, you can find the secluded Hams Beach just north of Caves Beach.
What are the facilities at the beach?
There is a café, picnic tables, barbecues, toilets, showers and Surf Life Saving Club. The beach is also patrolled during the school holidays from September to April.
What is the best time to visit the beach?
The beach can be visited any time of the year but be cognisant of tide times. Summer is a great time to visit for a leisurely dip in the ocean and keep in mind that weekends can be a little busy.
Can I easily access the caves?
There are a variety of caves at the beach with different sizes. Some are too narrow and should be entered with care but most are easily accessible.
Read more about this lovely NSW spot here.