Just 30 minutes from Newcastle on the quiet shoreline of Lake Macquarie, Murrays Beach packs a lot into one easy visit. There are two playgrounds, a flat walking and bike track around the lake, and a jetty where even reluctant young fishers are likely to get a bite.
Where Is Murrays Beach?
Murrays Beach sits on the eastern side of Lake Macquarie, about five minutes off the Pacific Highway just past Swansea. Despite the name, it isn’t an ocean beach. It’s a calm lake shoreline, part of a private residential development, with no surf flags or patrols, since there’s no surf to speak of. The public are welcome to drive through the community to reach the public wharf and the BBQ and picnic area on the water, with the view across to Pulbah Island as a backdrop.
Fishing Off the Jetty
The jetty at Murrays Beach gives plenty of room to cast a line into the lake. Bream and long toms are common catches, and most kids will get a bite within a few casts, which makes this a good spot for younger or less patient fishers who don’t have the stamina for a long wait.
A catch and release approach works well if you’d rather keep things simple. For anyone after a bigger day out, there’s a boat ramp if you want to put a dinghy in. Grab bait on the way at the service stations in Swansea or Belmont, or at Fisherman’s Warehouse at Marks Point, or bring your own from home. For more fishing tips, check out our article about local family-friendly fishing spots.
Two Playgrounds to Choose From
There’s a small natural playground near the main car park, with creeping native gardens, rustic wooden climbing beams and plenty of sand for digging.
For a bigger playground, head to Karakai Park, also known as Murrays Beach Park, in the residential area a short drive from the water. The name Karakai means “to be active” in Awabakal.
Opened in 2023, it has a playground, a double-sided hit wall and a half-court basketball court, suiting a range of ages.
Walking and Bike Tracks
A flat, well-maintained walking and bike track winds gently around the lake through natural bushland, a good option for kids who’d rather scoot or ride than wait around for a fish to bite. Keep an eye out for native wildlife along the way, including echidnas and lizards.
Swimming isn’t the easiest here, with weed and rocks and shells right up to the shoreline. For a swim on the same trip, Caves Beach or Swansea are both a short drive away.
Food and Facilities
There are undercover picnic tables, BBQs and clean toilets near the water, so packing your own lunch is an easy option.
Murrays Restaurant by the jetty is open daily for breakfast and lunch all week long.
Good to Know
Location: Five minutes off the Pacific Highway, just past Swansea.
What to bring: Fishing gear, picnic supplies, scooters or bikes.
Best for: Families wanting an easy fishing trip, a flat walk, or a playground visit without the crowds of a patrolled beach.
More to Explore Nearby
If you’re heading this way, the Caves Beach to Pinny Beach coastal walk is a scenic option for families with older kids, and Caves Beach itself is worth a visit for its sea caves at low tide. For more options around the lake, our Best Lake Macquarie Walks guide covers everything from flat prams-friendly strolls to longer family hikes.