A seafood sunset paddle experience launches on Lake Macquarie

Photography: Newy Digital

In January of this year, we first had the opportunity to jump on board Showtime Kayaking’s nighttime tour on Lake Macquarie – a magical experience that completely transforms your perspective of Lake Mac and just how beautiful this area is.

More recently, we were tempted back into the kayaks with the launch of something special – the Seafood Sunset Paddle, which is all about slowing down, taking in the lake, and tucking into some seriously good seafood along the way.

The evening launched from Naru Beach at twilight, where we hopped into one of the clear double kayaks and paddled off into the sunset.

The start of the tour had us paddling past Spoil Island, along the way spotting a range of wildlife both above and below the water.

As the lake settles into dusk, that’s when it’s time to switch the lights on. It’s a definite wow moment watching as the flotilla of boats all light up together. We then took the easy 20-minute paddle to Elizabeth Sand Island, which was our dinner destination.

The trickiest part of the entire evening was exiting out of our kayak on the slightly bumpy shores of Elizabeth Island. Please note that you will get a little wet, so wear clothing suitable for the water. 

We then made our way up the sandy island to be greeted by picnic mats and tables, with lanterns and head torches providing the only light.

Waiting for us was a box of fresh local seafood, thanks to Tinta Belmont – think oysters, prawns, a whole crab, as well as a juicy lobster and crab roll. Simple, fresh, and exactly what you want to eat with your toes in the sand.

Before heading back, the team takes you through a guided stargazing talk that delves into the stories of the southern skies, and those who have called the area home for many thousands of years, the perfect way to round out an evening under the stars.

What’s included in the Seafood Sunset Paddle

→  3-hour hosted experience
→  Guided night kayak tour in illuminated, clear double kayaks
→  Sand island landing with lantern-lit picnic setup
→  Fresh seafood picnic by Tinta Belmont
→  Stargazing talk under the night sky
→  Exclusive to 6 couples, adults only
→  All safety gear and equipment provided

Following the sunset dinner, it’s back into the kayaks and time to do some serious wildlife spotting. The surprisingly shallow waters, together with the clear kayaks, allow for some close-up action of what goes on beneath. 

Elena, our energetic tour host, helped point out some of the watery locals, which include puffer fish, prawns, stingrays, and if you’re lucky, eels, octopus and some slightly bigger fish. Following the flow of the water back to Naru Beach makes for a very leisurely cruise home and the ideal way to end this incredible sunset tour.

Showtime Kayak's Seafood Sunset Paddle is a super relaxed, peaceful experience, and one of those nights that feels a little out of the ordinary.