Pristine bushland, sparkling water views and a rich local history make Wangi Point one of the best spots in western Lake Macquarie for a family walk. Tucked into the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area at Wangi Wangi, it offers several walking tracks, picnic spots and fishing spots to suit different ages and energy levels.
A Place With a Long History
Wangi Point has a long history. A plaque at the start of the walk notes that the area was traditionally used by the Awabakal people for hunting, fishing and gathering, and to travel to Pulbah Island (a sacred site).
In 1831, the peninsula was granted to Edward Cory, then an area of 105 acres was set aside as a nature reserve in 1897. Since then, Wangi Point has been a treasured local recreation area for bushwalkers, picnickers and nature lovers.
Walking Tracks at Wangi Point
There are four main tracks through Wangi Point, all linking up with one another. A map near the car park makes it easy to see the options, and the tracks are also plotted on Google Maps for tracking progress along the way.
Wangi Circuit Track (1.7km loop)
The Wangi Circuit Track roughly follows the perimeter of the point and joins up with each of the other tracks. The Wangi Circuit Track is the longest of all the tracks, at 1.7km. Although this isn’t a huge distance, the track is not particularly flat and is uneven in parts.
There are a few steps and small hills to climb up and down along the way, and areas where you can leave the main track to walk down to the shore. If you decide to do this track, leave yourself plenty of time. It’s probably best suited to school aged-kids.
The Wangi Circuit Track meanders through the bush, along a narrow (but fairly well marked) track. If you go clockwise around the track, after a little while you will start to catch glimpses of the sparkling lake through the trees. The path is mostly elevated above the lake, but there are multiple access points to the water. It’s well worth heading down to the lake shore for a look.
There are beautiful rock platforms around the waters’ edge, and it’s a great place to look for birds and sea creatures including sea turtles!
Kids will enjoy clambering over rocks and fallen trees, and throwing pebbles in the lake. Just mind your step, because there are lots of trip hazards on the rock platforms. This would be a nice spot to stop for a bit of morning tea and a cool drink.
Botany Track (approx 800m return)
Shorter and very scenic, the Botany Track isn’t pram friendly but is a better option for preschool-aged children thanks to its shorter distance and easier access to the lake. It has its own set of impressive rock platforms, along with good fishing and picnic spots.
There are more spectacular rock platforms to check out along the lake’s edge here, and some great fishing and picnicking spots.
We also saw families kayaking and boating nearby, so there are lots of possibilities.
Ridge Track and Circuit Link Track
There are two other tracks at Wangi Point – the Ridge Track and the Circuit Link Track. These two shorter tracks connect with the main circuit and offer further options for exploring the point on a return visit.
What Else to Look Out For
Look out for wildflowers in spring, when the bush along the tracks tends to be in bloom.
There’s also a large old tree with an enormous hollow along the way, almost certainly home to native wildlife.
Families kayaking and boating nearby are a common sight too, for anyone keen to extend the visit onto the water.
Near the car park, a tyre swing on a long rope is a simple but popular feature with younger kids, and a handy way to buy a few minutes to load and unload the car.
Good to Know
Toilets: There are no amenities here, so make sure you use the toilet before you arrive.
Drinking Water: None. Fill up drink bottles before you head off.
Distance: Wangi Point Circuit Track is a 1.7km loop; Botany Track is approximately 800m return.
Dogs: No
Bring: Lots of water, sunscreen, insect repellent and hats. Also bring swimmers and water shoes if you want to paddle (there may be some oysters and sharp rocks in the water). It’s also best to pack a picnic rug if you plan to have a picnic. There is only one picnic table near the carpark and a few benches along the way. There are no bins, so make sure you take your rubbish with you.
Getting There: There is a carpark at Wangi Point at Wangi Wangi which gives easy access to the walking tracks.
For more information and for a trail map, visit Wangi Circuit Walking Track section on the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service website.
Stay: If you want to stay longer, book into the Wangi Point Holiday Park, one of the Lake Mac Holiday Parks accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The tracks are uneven with steps and small hills in places, so a pram is not recommended.
No, dogs are not permitted in this section of the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area.
The Botany Track is a good option for preschoolers thanks to its shorter length. The Wangi Circuit Track is better suited to school-aged kids given the distance and uneven terrain.
No, there are no toilets or drinking water on site, so it’s best to come prepared.
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