Suburb Spotlight: Smiths Lake – The Perfect Family Holiday Destination
When you think of the perfect family holiday, what comes to mind? Lazy mornings, great coffee, safe swimming spots for the kids, water adventures for the teens, and a comfortable holiday home where everyone can unwind together. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Smiths Lake, one of the most family-friendly destinations on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales.
Just a short drive from Forster and set within the stunning Pacific Palms region, Smiths Lake is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty with a laid-back, welcoming community. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, where kids can roam safely, and where families can reconnect—away from the hustle of city life.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or settling in for a week-long spring break, Smiths Lake offers everything from outdoor adventures to simple lakeside relaxation.
Stay by the Lake with Pacific Palms Holidays
The best way to enjoy Smiths Lake is to stay right by the water, and that’s where Pacific Palms Holidays comes in. With a collection of family-friendly Smiths Lake holiday homes, you can choose the perfect base for your escape—whether that’s a spacious lakefront retreat with a private jetty, a modern home just a short stroll from the water, or a cosy cottage that’s perfect for a small family.
Staying lakeside has plenty of perks. Imagine watching the sun rise over the water with a coffee in hand, or ending the day with a BBQ dinner on the deck while the kids play on the grass. Many of our Smiths Lake holiday rentals are designed with families in mind—plenty of bedrooms, open-plan living, and outdoor areas made for long summer evenings or lazy spring afternoons.
And because Pacific Palms Holidays is locally based, our team knows Smiths Lake inside out. We can recommend the best activities, eateries, and hidden spots to make your stay unforgettable.
Coffee, Food, and Local Favourites
Every great holiday starts with great food, and Frothy Coffee Boatshed is a must-visit for any Smiths Lake trip. Located right on the water, Frothy’s is famous for its freshly brewed coffee, hearty breakfasts, and relaxed atmosphere. You can watch pelicans glide across the lake while enjoying a bacon and egg roll or treat yourself to a long lunch with family-friendly options.
For those who love to self-cater, Smiths Lake has a small village with essentials, and Pacific Palms is close by with more shops and local produce. Many holiday homes come with fully equipped kitchens, so you can whip up family meals with ease. Picture yourself cooking up the day’s catch after a morning fishing trip or putting together a picnic to take to the nearby beaches and lookouts.
Water Adventures for Every Age
Smiths Lake is all about the water, and with calm, sheltered conditions, it’s perfect for families of all ages. Here are just some of the activities you can enjoy:
- Swimming: The sandy shallows of the lake are safe for little ones, while older kids and adults can enjoy deeper spots for a proper dip.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Hire gear locally or bring your own and spend a morning paddling across the glassy surface of the lake. It’s a peaceful way to take in the scenery while burning off some energy.
- Fishing: Cast a line from the shore or hire a small boat and head out into deeper waters. The lake is home to bream, flathead, and whiting—perfect for a family fishing competition.
- Boating & Sailing: Families with a boat will love Smiths Lake’s wide stretches of water, ideal for skiing, sailing, or simply cruising.
- Windsurfing & Water Play: If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, spring is a great time to try your hand at windsurfing.
Because the lake is separated from the ocean by a natural sandbar, it remains calm and ideal for kids—a safe and relaxed environment where families can spend hours in and on the water.
Springtime at Smiths Lake
Spring is one of the best times to visit Smiths Lake. The days are warmer, the water is inviting, and the natural surroundings come alive with colour and fresh energy. Here are a few ideas to make the most of a spring family holiday:
- Bushwalks & Nature Trails: Explore the lush forests surrounding Smiths Lake. The nearby Cellito Beach Boardwalk is a must-do, winding through rainforest before opening onto a spectacular, often empty stretch of beach.
- Wildflowers & Birdwatching: Spring is peak season for native wildflowers, and Myall Lakes National Park (just a short drive away) is a hotspot for spotting colourful blooms and a wide variety of birdlife.
- Picnics by the Lake: Pack a picnic and set up for the day under the shade of the trees by the water. Kids can swim, paddle, and play while you relax with a good book.
- Markets & Local Events: The Pacific Palms region hosts vibrant local markets where you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Things to Do This October Long Weekend
If you’re planning your visit for the October Long Weekend, Smiths Lake is an unbeatable choice. With three days to play, you’ll have plenty of time to combine activity and relaxation:
- Day 1: Arrive at your Smiths Lake holiday home, settle in, and head to Frothy Coffee Boatshed for an easy lunch. Spend the afternoon swimming or paddling by the lake before enjoying a BBQ dinner on your deck.
- Day 2: Take a family bushwalk to Cellito Beach, followed by a picnic. In the afternoon, hire kayaks or paddleboards for some on-water fun. End the day with sunset drinks overlooking the lake.
- Day 3: Explore further afield with a short drive to Blueys or Boomerang Beach for a surf, or head into Myall Lakes National Park for more bushwalking and spring wildflower spotting.
The October Long Weekend is also a fantastic time to simply slow down. With warmer days and longer evenings, you can balance a few adventures with plenty of lakeside downtime—exactly what a family holiday should be.
Plan Your Family Escape to Smiths Lake
Smiths Lake offers everything families need for a truly memorable holiday: safe swimming, fun activities, fresh local food, and plenty of space to relax together. Add in the natural beauty of the Pacific Palms region and a stay in one of Pacific Palms Holidays’ Smiths Lake accommodation options, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an unforgettable getaway.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed long weekend or a week of rest and relaxation, Smiths Lake has something for everyone. So gather the family, pack the car, and get ready to experience one of the Mid North Coast’s most loved holiday destinations.
✨ Ready to book your Smiths Lake family holiday? Browse our full range of Pacific Palms Holidays accommodation today and start planning your lakeside escape.