The Light to Light walk has reopened with significant upgrades

The Light to Light walk on the NSW Far South Coast has reopened with new campgrounds and track sections.

One of NSW’s most breathtaking walks has just reopened after a significant upgrade, and it’s offering hikers an unforgettable coastal adventure with spectacular views and wildlife.

A hiker standing on a rock overlooking the ocean at the Light to Light walk. — Traverse rugged red cliffs. (Image: Remy Brand /DCCEEW)

Part of NSW Great Walks – a network of multi-day walks offering world-class walking experiences – the NSW Government’s Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund and NPWS poured $14.9 million into the Light to Light walk upgrade. This includes new campgrounds with 10 elevated hardwood sleeping platforms and toilets, and realigned track sections for better views.

Green Cape Lighthouse at te Light to Light walk. — The hike ends at Green Cape Lighthouse. (Image: Remy Brand/DCCEEW)

This Grade 4 walk stretches 32 kilometres of the NSW Far South Coast near Edrom, from the historic Boyds Tower to Green Cape Lighthouse, the southernmost lighthouse in the state. Hikers will traverse diverse landscapes from red cliffs and coves to forests and heathland, being treated to panoramic ocean views along the way.

An aerial view of the Mowarry campgrounds on the Light to Light walk. — The newly opened Mowarry campgrounds. (Image: Daniel Parsons/DCCEEW)

It’s recommended to enjoy the walk across three days and two nights (one way), stopping at the newly opened campgrounds at Mowarry Point and Hegartys Bay. Begin your journey with a nine-kilometre walk on day one, starting at Boyds Tower and ending at Mowarry Point. Day two covers 10 kilometres to Hegartys Bay, and day three is a 13-kilometre walk finishing at Green Cape Lighthouse.

There is also the option to join a guided tour with a local operator like Sapphire Coast Guiding Co., which includes accommodation in the historic Green Cape Lighthouse gear, transfers and meals. Shorter day walks are also available for those not wanting to commit to the full trek.

A whale breaching on the NSW Far South Coast. — Spot breaching humpback whales. (Image: Scott Blanch)

The walk presents fantastic wildlife spotting opportunities, including whales, seals and seabirds. The walk has reopened at the perfect time, with the humpback whale migration having kicked off in May and running until November. It’s worth noting that dogs are not allowed on the track.

The weather may have cooled, but this spectacular hike is the perfect excuse to get outdoors, soak up the sunshine and witness these majestic creatures in action.

The Light to Light Walk in NSW — The Light to Light walk offers hikers an unforgettable coastal adventure. (Image: Remy Brand/DCCEEW)

Discover the scenic beauty of the Southern Headlands Walk next

An untapped side to this popular holiday spot is hiding in plain sight.

Laidback Lake Macquarie draws in holidaygoers and day trippers with its casual coastal allure and raw beauty. But even though it’s just 90 minutes from Sydney, most visitors have only scratched the surface of what this region has to offer.

Foodie hotspots, quaint towns, tranquil waterways and compelling art are all waiting to be discovered. You just need to know where to find them.

1. Most visitors don’t make it to the western side

Explore beyond the western side. (Credit: Beau Pilgrim)

While there’s no harm in walking the well-worn path in this idyllic pocket of the world, the area west of Lake Macquarie is defined by stretches of ancient rainforests and quaint towns with a more local feel. Toronto is the largest town on this side and features a golf course and sailing clubs, while peninsula-based Wangi Wangi is fantastic for bushwalking and swimming.

2. There’s a booming arts scene

Lake Macquarie is a must-visit destination for creatives. Discover the Museum of Art and Culture, YAPANG; this modern gallery is set on a five-hectare sculpture park and showcases a free rotating program of exhibitions and events, with a strong focus on contemporary Aboriginal art. In Wangi Wangi, explore the Wangi Owl Trail, which includes Dobell House, the preserved home of prolific artist Sir William Dobell. And enjoy live music every Saturday evening at the recently renovated Toronto Hotel.

3. It’s a nature lover’s paradise

three people swimming in lake macquarie — In and out of the water, find a natural paradise. (Credit: Beau Pilgrim)

Lake Macquarie is a playground for nature lovers. It’s home to Australia’s largest saltwater lake, a 110-square-kilometre haven for swimming, fishing, boating and sunset views. Another oasis is the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area, a 761-hectare protected reserve with wildflowers, Second World War heritage sites and spectacular views to Pulbah Island. The upgraded Toronto baths, complete with jetty decking and netting, make for a sheltered spot for a refreshing dip, while the Awaba Mountain Bike Park gives adrenaline junkies their fix.

4. The dining scene is unbeatable

8 at Trinity lake macquarie — Treat yourself to 8 at Trinity.

Gourmands are well looked after in Lake Macquarie. At Emerson’s on the Lake in Toronto, the modern Australian fine dining menu spoils seafood lovers with the freshest ocean produce and stunning lake views. Sitting on Trinity Point’s waterfront, 8 at Trinity is another standout offering, serving Mediterranean fare in an open-air setting. For a more relaxed affair, the microbrewery trail lets craft beer enthusiasts sip on inventive brews from The Yard, Lake Mac Brewing and Bread & Brewery.

5. There are hidden coves and waterways

kayakers on lake macquarie local secrets — Get out onto the lake. (Credit: Beau Pilgrim)

There’s no better way to experience Lake Macquarie than directly on its waters, and in doing so you’ll discover a world of hidden coves and secluded waterways. Jump in a kayak for a tour with the friendly team at School of Yak and paddle to Cockle Creek, Awaba Bay, Green Point and Fennel Bay, discovering underwater life along the way. Or go all in and stay the night on one of Lake Macquarie Houseboats’ spacious vessels or hire a BBQ pontoon boat for the day from Lake Macquarie Boat Hire to enjoy a feast in the sunshine while admiring the marine life and picturesque waterscape.

6. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise

ll blue wren sitting on a tree branch — Keep an eye out for local birdlife. (Credit: Walter Coppola)

Twitchers are in for a real treat as hundreds of fascinating bird species such as Australian pelicans, black swans, white-bellied sea-eagles and superb fairy-wrens call this area home. Take a self-guided tour around top spots including Bird Cage Point and Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area (near Morisset) or be guided in a clear-bottom kayak through the waterways with Lake Macquarie Kayak Adventures, observing feathered friends as you go.

7. The lake has islands

sail lake macquarie — Charter a boat to see Lake Macquarie’s islands.

Hop on a private boat, kayak or charter around the lake to discover the plethora of small islands peppered around Lake Macquarie. The largest is Pulbah Island, a 69-hectare nature reserve home to goannas and sugar gliders with secluded beaches. Sandy islands such as Spectacle Island and Pelican Island have a tropical lagoon-like look to them as they sit in the tidal path of Swansea Channel, which filters the sand and creates a pristine environment. Stop by for a dip and a picnic.

Start living like the locals at visitlakemac.com.au.

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