Fast five: Free nature-based family fun around Lake Illawarra 

There is nothing quite like a day by the lake to slow down and spend quality time together. Around Lake Illawarra, you will find plenty of fun things to do that are free and perfect for hanging out with friends or making memories with the kids (or the grandkids). Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are five fabulous things to do around the lake that cater for the creative, the sporty and the budding scientists in our community.

1. Make art in the open air

Got a future Picasso or just a scribbler who loves nature? Grab some pencils, paints or even your (phone’s) camera and take a wander around the lake. You will find some wonderful spots to stop, sit and sketch. Not so much a fan of the classic arts? Collect some shells, sticks and other natural materials and create your own artwork or statue.

Please make sure to only leave footsteps behind.

2. Turn the Lake into a science lab

Chat about how tides work, look for crabs and shells along the shore or take a closer look at the wetland areas to spot waterbirds and learn about their habitat. It’s hands-on learning without the worksheets and perfect for curious minds of all ages.

April is global Citizen Science Month with many activities to get involved, explore and contribute to global science research. For ideas on how to turn an outing into a thrilling science expedition visit April is Citizen Science Month – Inspiring Australia or Citizen Science Month - One Million Acts of Science! - SciStarter.

If you’ve got access to a device, the “iNaturalist” app is another option. By spotting local flora and fauna and uploading a picture to this free app you can support science all year around. Everything you upload will be reviewed by real scientists and the whole family can learn exciting details about the cute little critter or funny-smelling plant you just discovered.

3. Get moving, lake-style

Whether it’s riding bikes or a scooter along the shared path or simply going for a family walk with a view, there are plenty of ways to stay active around Lake Illawarra. Some of our favourite spots include:

• Lakeside Reserve, Kanahooka to Tallawarra Point, Yallah – sealed footpath great for walks, runs, riding the bike or scooter
• Kully Bay East Park, Warrawong to Bob Grabham Jetty, Warrawong - sealed footpath great for walks, runs, riding the bike or scooter
• Hooka Point, Berkeley including Observation platform, Hooka Creek Bridge and Mullet Creek Bridge – mainly sealed footpath great for walks, runs and riding the bike

Many reserves and parks offer playgrounds, so parents or grandparents can take a break and let the kids go wild.

Best of all, for these trails there is no fancy gear required, all you need are comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure to enjoy a family-friendly day out along the lake.

4. Find your chill

Sometimes the best thing to do is … not much at all. Pack a picnic, throw out a rug and just enjoy the breeze off the water. Why not play some games, cloud-watch, or have a slow snack session and let the lake be your backdrop.

• Holborn Park, Berkeley, with a skate park nearby
• Kanahooka Park, Kanahooka, next to the Jetty or the Sailing Club
• Lakeside Reserve, Kanahooka, near Koonawarra Bay Viewing Platform
• Bundah Place, Primbee, with a BMX track nearby

5. Go on a treasure hunt

Create your own family challenge by spotting things like pelicans, fish jumping, boats on the water or native plants. You could even turn it into a photo scavenger hunt with categories like “something blue”, “something moving” or even “something weird”! It is a fun way to explore and makes every walk feel a bit like an adventure.