This is an incredible spot for flat water blasting for windsurfing. Unfortunately the kitesurfing isn’t great on this lake unless the lake is pretty full where you can get a decent session on the sandbar on the beach-side of the lake.
Smiths Lake is located approximately 28 km (0:26) south of Foster or 136 km (1:44) north of Newcastle on the NSW Mid North Coast. This is a great destination spot where you could easily spend a couple of weeks or link it into a road trip around the Central Coast.
The spot is very safe for beginners and kids learning to windsurf and shallow enough to stand up around much of the lake.
When the wind blows from the NE you get some fantastic flat water blasting across the lake to the large sand bar that separates the ocean from the lake. When the sand bar is closed to the ocean the water in the lake is only waist deep making it great for beginners or those needing a rest or those learning to gybe.
In a SE, the wind comes across the sand bar and the water can be glassy flat and great for speed runs. A SW can also work on this lake similar to the NE as a direct cross-shore breeze.
During the summer months it is not uncommon to get 50% or more days 18-20+ knots (NE being the most predominant wind direction) and nice warm air temps in the 30s.
The lake is also good for water skiing & SUPping in the mornings before the wind gets up.
Bring your freeride or slalom gear for a fabulous time at this spot.
Launching/Access
There are 2 main launching areas in the northern part of Smiths Lake:
- Sandpiper – this is an exceptional place to launch from particularly for those looking to stay on the lake. There is a fabulous holiday complex called Sandpiper on Smiths lake here where you can leave your gear rigged in front of your villa as the water is just metres away.
- Sandbar Point – this is right near the Sandbar & Bushland Holiday Parks & Golf Course on the eastern-side of the lake.
In both cases the sailing is similar with lots of flat shallow water; just starting at opposite sides of the lake. If you are just dropping by for a day-trip access on the Sandbar Point side is probably the best option.
Other things to do in the area
Smiths Lake has clean and reasonably warm water ideal for swimming is also great for fishing, water skiing, SUPping & kayaking.
The nearby surf beach is also great for swimming, surfing & surf fishing.
There is a 9-hole golf course at the camping ground or an 18-hole course & country club at Foster just 30 mins drive from Smiths Lake.
Amongst other things there is plenty of natural beauty for sight-seeing in the area.
