Lakeside Leisure Centre, located at Raymond Terrace, is a fantastic aquatic centre to take kids of all ages, especially babies and toddlers. Comprising a large, indoor, heated swimming pool and a 50 metre, outdoor, heated pool plus kiosk, playground and swim shop, it’s definitely worth the drive.
The indoor pool gradually deepens from ground level and has a large, very shallow area which makes it great for babies and toddlers.
At random times throughout the day, and depending on the number of people in the pool, the lifeguards turn on the water features consisting of three fountains, shallow spas and a deep spa area.
Kids love the water features as well as the overhead, inflatable sea creatures strung from the ceiling. As the indoor pool is heated to 30 degrees and open year-round, it’s a great place to swim on cold and rainy days too.
On warmer days, enjoy splashing in the 50 metre outdoor pool. There is dedicated lanes for lap swimmers and a large free play area for others. Don’t forget to bring noodles and pool toys. This pool is heated to 24-25 degrees year round.
Although the lifeguards are attentive, young children and non-confident swimmers must always be supervised and kids under 5 must always be within arms reach.
Outdoors, there are plenty of seated, shaded areas to rest in between swims and a large grassed area to run and play. The brand new toddler playground features a climbing tower, spinner and bouncy all on a soft fall base. There is also a BBQ.
The Swell Kiosk offers a good range of hot food, hot and cold drinks and snacks and the swim shop at this pool always stocks a great selection of new season swimmers with regular discounts on last-season stock.
This pool is also great for people with limited mobility as it is wheelchair accessible. The pool has two pool wheelchairs and the friendly staff are always willing to assist.
Lakeside Leisure Centre does get busy, though there is always ample car parking space in the large, adjacent car park. Keep in mind that certain areas of the indoor pool are restricted when swimming lessons and other programs are running so it is a good idea to call ahead, find out what programs are operating and plan your visit around them.
Entry charges to the centre apply, with session passes and season passes available.
Good to Know
Address: 3 Leisure Way, Raymond Terrace
Phone: 4987 2039
Picnic facilities: Yes
BBQ: Yes, one
Cost: (As at 22/23 Financial Year) Casual entry $6.20, Child 4-15 $5.20, Concession $5.20, Under 3 Free
For more information, visit the Lakeside Leisure Centre website.
Where are other pools you can take your kids? Check out our Swimming Pools in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter guide.
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