Perched on a narrow strip of land, Caves Beach is sandwiched between Lake Macquarie and the Pacific Ocean. As well as its namesake limestone caves, the laid-back holiday town is surrounded by gorgeous beaches, sandy inlets and famous surf breaks.

Things to do

Caves Beach is named after the limestone sea caves that sit at the southern end of the bay. They're best explored at low tide, when it's possible to venture into the seaweed-strewn caverns. Perfect for a sunny day, the main beach features well-maintained barbecue facilities and shady picnic areas ideal for families with kids.

There’s plenty of outdoor recreation available, from kayaking and fishing to water skiing and jet boating. If you want to try surfing, nearby Catherine Hill Bay boasts golden sand and gentle waves perfect for beginners.

Just east of Lake Macquarie is the rugged Wallarah National Park. It's laced with scenic hiking trails, including the popular Coastal Walking Track. The walking track links Caves Beach with nearby Pinny Beach and rewards hikers with sweeping views of the coastline.

From May to November, Caves Beach is a fantastic base for whale watching when humpbacks make their way down Australia's east coast. Organised whale-watching trips offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close with the gentle marine giants.

Getting around

Caves Beach is just 30 kilometres south of Newcastle, with the drive taking around 30 minutes. Local buses also make the trip in approximately one hour. Caves Beach is easy to explore on foot, but you need a car to tour the rest of the Lake Macquarie region.