An underutilised section of the Hunter coast could soon welcome greater recreation through a proposed coastal walk.
The NSW government is exploring the creation of a Caves Beach to Budgewoi Coastal Trail, which would directly link south-east Lake Macquarie communities with the north-eastern corner of the Central Coast.
A commitment was made by Labor prior to their victory at the 2023 state election to deliver a masterplan that explored the creation of a coastal walkway.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), in collaboration with Transport for NSW, is leading the development of the master plan for the connected trail.
A landscape architect was appointed in October to begin work on the masterplan.
Member for Swansea and Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, has been a long-term supporter of the coastal trail and welcomed its next step.
"We have already seen the benefit the Fernleigh Track has had on our community, strengthening our tourism appeal while providing an accessible space for walking, cycling and recreation," Ms Catley said.
"Once completed, this shared coastal path has the potential to form part of a continuous route from Newcastle through to Budgewoi, showcasing our stunning coastline and strengthening connections between communities along the way.
"This project is about creating a legacy for our region. Supporting active lifestyles, boosting local tourism and ensuring more people can experience and enjoy our coastline for generations to come."
The majority of the proposal trail will pass through the Wallarah and Munmorah National Parks.
The draft plan is expected to be placed on public exhibition in mid-2026.
"The plan will seek to link existing trails, minimise environmental impact, and address ecological, heritage, coastal safety, and maintenance considerations," a spokesperson for NSW NPWS said.
The coastal walk will likely begin near Pinny Beach, south of Caves Beach, before continuing through the Wallarah National Park, past Catherine Hill Bay and through Munmorah National Park.
It would continue south past Frazer Beach and Birdie Beach and then along the eastern side of Lake Munmorah to Budgewoi.
The proposed trail will feature a mix of dedicated pedestrian paths and multi-use trails for both walkers and cyclists.
Both Wallarah and Lake Munmorah National Parks are renowned for their rugged coastline and stunning ocean views.
They also both offer whale- and bird-watching opportunities.
Munmorah National Park has two camping grounds at Freemans and Frazer Park.
"The master plan will consider supporting infrastructure and connectivity to encourage active transport and improve access for walkers, cyclists, bird-watchers, runners, and nature enthusiasts," the NPWS spokesperson said.
"NPWS brings extensive experience in delivering trail networks in challenging environments while maintaining conservation values."
The Caves Beach to Budgewoi Coastal Trail was discussed at the inaugural meeting between Lake Macquarie City Council and Central Coast Council last Monday at Gosford Library as part of their freshly inked strategic partnership.
Lake Macquarie mayor Adam Shultz, deputy mayor Colin Grigg, and acting CEO Tony Farrell attended the meeting with Central Coast mayor Lawrie McKinna, deputy John Mouland and CEO David Farmer.
Cr Shultz said the coastal trail was a project that Lake Macquarie City Council was keen to work on with their southern neighbours and the NSW government.
"There's a lot to collaborate on and work towards in the interest of both Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast," Cr Shultz said.