Fast 5: Lunchtime walks around Lake Illawarra

The days might be cooler, but it is actually one of the best times in the year to get outside, stretch your legs and give your immune system a little boost. A brisk walk at lunchtime not only clears the head but can also help strengthen your defences, reduce stress, and break up long days behind a desk.

Luckily, Lake Illawarra offers plenty of great spots where you can squeeze in a short walk (or run), some right outside the office, others just a quick drive away. Whether you’ve got 20 minutes or an hour, here is a list of easy lunchtime walks and runs to get you moving and make the most of your break (in order of time required).

1️. Primbee Jetty Stroll (20 mins)

Start: Purry Burry Ave corner Nicole Road
Short on time? This gentle 20-minute walk to Purry Burry Jetty and back is ideal for a quick recharge. A flat, peaceful track with lovely water views allow for a perfect little nature fix between meetings or errands.

2. Kanahooka Bay – Koonawarra Bay Viewing Platform (40 mins)

Start:  Kanahooka Rd Parking Lot next to Kanahooka Boat Ramp
Love your jetties and stunning views? This walk offers 2 jetties and a bonus viewing platform with beautiful lake views. Starting at Kanahooka boat ramp it takes you through Kanahooka Park and around the lake edge, through the tree-lined Lakeside Reserve to the Koonawarra Bay Viewing Platform at Brooks Creek and back (around 40 minutes).

3️. Hooka Point & Mullet Creek Loop (40–60 mins)

Start: Hooka Point car park
A slightly longer option, starting with a stroll out to Mullet Creek and back (around 40 minutes). If you’ve got extra time, add the loop up to the Observation Point tower for bonus views and a free hamstrings workout. The full circuit will give you about an hour of lake breeze and birdlife.

4. Berkeley Boat Harbour to Dix’s Wharf (50 mins)

Start: Berkeley Boat Harbour Wharf
Starting at the wharf, this route takes you along the water to Dix’s Wharf and back, with lake views all the way. About 50 minutes return which is enough time to get the legs moving, enjoy the scenery and head back feeling refreshed.

5. Lakeside Drive to Tallawarra Point (60 mins)

Start: Lakeside Drive Reserve
If you have a full lunch hour to spare, this is a beautiful longer walk. The path follows the lakeside out to Tallawarra Point and back, with great views and plenty of space to breathe. A great choice if you’re looking for a more energetic lunchtime reset.

Please note: All walks can be adapted to suit the time you have.

Even a short walk can make a big difference; for your body, mind, and mood. So, grab a (work) mate, throw on a jacket, and enjoy what Lake Illawarra has to offer, one lunchtime at a time.