Charlestown

Highlights

Waterfront exploration

Charlestown is flanked by the charming township of Warners Bay, where a shared path alongside the shimmering blue lake is perfect for walking, cycling and rollerblading. The 9km route between Lions Park in Eleebana and Museum of Art and Culture  in Booragul is part of a network that loops around the lake.

Watagans Cycle Track, Lake Macquarie

Dolphins can also be seen frolicking in Lake Macquarie, Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, which is a popular waterway for sailing, kayaking, fishing and stand-up paddle-boarding. You’ll discover the gorgeous sands of Redhead Beach and Blacksmiths a quick drive southeast of Charlestown.

Aerial view of Blacksmiths Beach in Blacksmiths, Lake Macquarie Area, North Coast

Blacksmiths Beach, Lake Macquarie Area - Credit: Lake Macquarie Tourism

Glenrock State Conservation Area

A short drive east of Charlestown, Glenrock State Conservation Area is a place to relax on empty beaches, pedal along picturesque mountain bike trails and hike through deep-green rainforest to find waterfalls. There are vantage points along the way for spotting whales as they migrate along the coast between May and November.

Glenrock State Conservation Area - Credit: John Spencer | DCCEEW

Scenic walks

Yuelarbah Walking Track is part of the Great North Walk that stretches all the way from Newcastle to Sydney. This 6.8km-return trail winds through gullies and rainforest and past two waterfalls to arrive at Glenrock Beach. The track twists and turns to Leichhardt’s Lookout at the halfway point, offering magical district views.

Mountain biking, Glenrock State Conservation Area - Credit: John Spencer/DCCEEW

Leggy Point is another great walking trail that ushers you along a 2km loop to Elvis Rock to reveal show-stopping coastal vistas and top spots for whale watching. The track meanders through forests of banksia, acacia, spotted gum and ironbark trees, and displays pretty blooms of yellow donkey orchids in spring.

Leggy Point loop walking track at Glenrock State Conservation Area, Newcastle

Glenrock State Conservation Area, Newcastle - Credit: John Spencer/DCCEEW

Walk along the Burwood Trail to the heritage-listed Burwood Colliery, which dates back to 1861. Along the way you're likely to hear the call of bellbirds and spot the distinctive bright yellow markings of the male regent bowerbirds. The 1.5km-return walk along the Burwood Trail links to Glenrock Beach.

Sunshine through the treetops at The Burwood Trail, Lake Macquarie

The Burwood Trail, Lake Macquarie - Credit: John Spencer/DCCEEW

Where to eat & drink

Charlestown offers a variety of dining and drinking options, with a short drive to local favourites The Duke of Wellington pub, which serves classic pub fare and Pippis at the Point, known for its fresh seafood and stunning lake views.

Seafood platter at Pippis at the Point, Charlestown

Pippis at the Point, Charlestown - Credit: Pippis at the Point

Where to stay

Accommodation in Charlestown has a variety of options. The Mercure Charlestown offers modern rooms with great amenities and is conveniently located near shopping and dining. For a more relaxed atmosphere, consider the Best Western Apollo. There are also nearby campgrounds and holiday parks, making it ideal for exploring the Lake Macquarie region.

View of the pool and upstairs dining room at Best Western Plus Apollo International Hotel , Charlestown

Best Western Plus Apollo International Hotel, Charlestown - Credit: Apollo International Hotel

Getting there

Charlestown is just over two hours’ drive north of Sydney and a 20-minute drive from Newcastle. You can also take the train from Sydney to Newcastle and transfer via bus, which takes around three hours and 15 minutes, or fly into Newcastle Airport. 