Begin your day with a coffee and a bite at Harry & Lola's, located at Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima. Visitors can expect a pared-back yet delicious menu, including toasties, smoothies and the signature (and funky) Lola Bowls.

If you are visiting on the second or fourth Saturday of the month, drop by the Lake Macquarie City Farmers Market to chat with local producers and pick up some snacks for the day ahead.

Once you are all fuelled up, jump on board the super-efficient Lake Mac Ferry, which links five locations across Lake Macquarie. If you thought Sydney Harbour was impressive, wait until you spend some time on this immense waterway, which is actually twice as large.

Make Booragul your first ferry stop for some creative inspiration at the Museum of Art and Culture, yapang.

Check out the calendar of events to find out what exhibitions are currently showing, catch a live music performance or attend a workshop during a Sunday Session.

Be sure to check out the art installations in the leafy Sculpture Park, and if you're feeling peckish, stop by the on-site Three Bears Cafe for gourmet pies, cakes and scones overlooking the glittering lake.

A three times Archibald Prize Winner, Dobell lived in Wangi Wangi from the 1940s until his death in 1970, and the home and studio where he produced most of his paintings – including the Wynn Prize-winning landscape 'Storm Approaching Wangi' – sit on the lake's calm shores.

The heritage-listed former residence is now a museum, housing original furniture, memorabilia and family mementoes, as well as an extensive exhibition outlining Dobell's career

There is so much to see and do at tranquil Belmont. Get out on the water and try fishing, kayaking, sailing or stand-up paddleboarding. Hit the greens at the 18-hole Belmont Golf Club, taking a swing with a breathtaking Pacific Ocean backdrop. Go for a refreshing dip in the large netted area at Belmont Baths. Or indulge in fresh seafood while watching boats peacefully drift by at the waterfront Crusoe's on the Lake, located at the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club.

Hugging the water's edge, the relatively flat, family-friendly Watagans Cycle Track at Warners Bay is a fantastic way to get a different perspective of the lake. Didn't remember to pack a bicycle? Simply hire one at Warners Bay Bike Hire.

If you would rather walk, the shared pathway also takes in the Creative Lake Sculpture Trail - Lake Macquarie's own permanent and eclectic version of Sculpture by the Sea. Among others, the contemporary works include pieces by Sydney-based artist Alex Seton – his bronze deflated rubber lifeboat pool toy is a thought-provoking nod to privileged society – as well as by Guan Wei, Guy Maestri, Naidee Changmoh and Antone Bruinsma.

A State Heritage-listed historic mining village, step back in time at Catherine Hill Bay, home to a landmark, former coal-loading jetty; several 19th-century miner's cottages, the oldest continuous settlement in Lake Macquarie; and a charming old-style pub. There is also a picturesque beach, twice named as one of 'Australia's 101 Best Beaches'.

For a different perspective of the lake, end your day with a private sunset sailing tour. See Lake Macquarie from the water while learning about the history, culture, and the flora and fauna of the region. Keep your eyes peeled for a passing dolphin or a soaring eagle as the spectacular scenery drifts, illuminated by the colours of golden hour.