Andrew Leeson takes in Lake Macquarie’s idyllic setting and opts for a little adventure on the side.
"Awesome!" erupts a deafening scream from the back of the boat.
Turning in my seat, water pouring down my face, I am greeted by a little boy, as soaked as he is visibly happy.
"Are we all good?" our skipper Simon asks with a mischievous grin. Thumbs-up from all on board and he slams the boat's throttle forward.
We are racing across Lake Macquarie waiting for Simon to knock the boat into another spiralling 180 and launch half the lake over us in a wake of water. I am more wet and nearly as happy as the children behind me. "That was about 95 per cent," Simon tells me back on dry land.
A decade of turning his Jet Buzz passengers into soaking-wet, satisfied customers gives him the right to boast.
But if his white-knuckle thrill ride doesn't quite sound like your thing, then there is plenty more on offer in this patch of central coast.
Just under two hours' north of Sydney, the area is full of good food, craft beers and nearby unspoiled beaches. One of the best beaches is Catherine Hill Bay, boasting white sand and hugged by crystal-clear water.
The historic coal bridge juts out from a cliff face and has great views of the coast. And the shallow bay spotted with coal is the perfect spot to hunker down with a good book and top up on vitamin D.
Jet Buzz on the lake will get your adrenaline pumping.
But if you want a bit more adventure, a 40-minute drive north will get you to Caves Beach, which offers the more intrepid beachgoer a low-tide exploration of its namesake.
If you are like me and inherited the ability to turn bright red at the very thought of sunlight, then delve into the area's artistic heritage.
Head to Dobell House where Archibald winner William Dobell spent most of his life. Dobell was famous for his ability to alter styles based on his subjects and his home in the pretty town of Wangi Wangi offers a taste of one of Australia's art greats, complete with a replica of his studio.
But where Lake Macquarie really shines is its idyllic surrounds, with countless activities to do on the water and plenty of bike trails. If you are looking for a hike, a short drive to the Watagans National Park will let you access mountain trails in a truly breathtaking slice of Australian bushland. A word of warning: all roads up to trails are unsealed.
Happily, there is no need to live off packed lunches as the area has plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Grab the local paper, a coffee and head to Warner's Bay to eat at Q and Co. by the lakeside, which is right next to bike hire and walking paths.
Exploring the lake's shore may not be as adrenalin-filled as jetting across it but a walk is a pleasant way to unwind. Wrapping up the day at the 16s Club offers local and imports on tap as well as great food. All around Lake Macquarie are bush walks, bike rides and beaches, so you won't run out of things to do.
But the best part is, it has remained undiscovered by many, so you'll be able to enjoy all it has to offer in peace.
CHECKLIST
Getting there: Lake Macquarie is 130km from Sydney.
Details:Jet Buzz' lake thrill ride can be booked for $60 for adults or children for $50. Dobell House is open Sat and Sun 1pm to 4pm.
