
Lake Advancetown
Impressive dam with scenic lake views, accessible paths, and a cafe. A peaceful spot for walks and picnics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the impressive spillway

Lake Advancetown
Best Time
Witness the impressive spillway
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Impressive dam with scenic lake views, accessible paths, and a cafe. A peaceful spot for walks and picnics.
"The views of the water, dam, and surrounding native forest were just amazing."

Check Dam Levels First
Confirm current water levels on Seqwater's site to know if the spillway is active. :information_desk:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Easy walks along the dam wall and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hinze Dam Wall Walk
Dam Wall
Stroll along the impressive dam wall for panoramic views of the serene lake and surrounding native forest. Accessible for all.

Advancetown Lake Vista
Lookout Points
Capture stunning vistas of the tranquil waters, lush greenery, and the imposing dam structure. Perfect for photography.

Spillway Spectacle
Spillway Area
Witness the powerful spectacle of water cascading over the spillway during periods of high rainfall – a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Dam Levels Before You Go
Accessibility and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Dam Levels First
Confirm current water levels on Seqwater's site to know if the spillway is active.
:information_desk:Wear Comfortable Shoes
Easy walks along the dam wall and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:
Picnic Perfect Spot
Plenty of lawn space and covered tables for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:
Cafe with a View
Enjoy refreshments at the cafe overlooking the lake. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Dam Levels First
Confirm current water levels on Seqwater's site to know if the spillway is active.
:information_desk:Wear Comfortable Shoes
Easy walks along the dam wall and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:
Picnic Perfect Spot
Plenty of lawn space and covered tables for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:
Cafe with a View
Enjoy refreshments at the cafe overlooking the lake. :coffee:
Birdwatching Opportunities
Keep an eye out for various bird species in the surrounding native forest. :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hinze Dam for its stunning natural beauty, accessible walking paths, and family-friendly amenities like the cafe and picnic areas. The impressive views of the lake and dam structure are consistently highlighted as a major draw. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging on busy days, and the view from the cafe can be partially obscured by mature trees.
"We visited on a beautiful clear day, with bright sunshine and blue skies. The views of the water, dam, and surrounding native forest were just amazing. There is a full service cafe on site and easy walks along the dam wall, even for those with mobility issues."
Lyn Smith
"Hinze Dam is a fantastic facility to visit. The surrounding grounds are immaculate and offers plenty of well maintained lawn space, covered tables, and wide accessible concrete pathways.
I highly recommend the tours run by Seqwater that are informative and full of interest."
Grant Keenan
"Beautiful spot! Walks as long or as short as you would like. Very nice cafe so you can look out over the water. Lots of birds around."
Glenda Manson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Advancetown, also known as Hinze Dam, is accessible by car. It's located on the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road in Advancetown, Queensland. Follow signs from the Gold Coast hinterland. Parking is available on-site, though it can get busy on peak days.
Public transport options to Hinze Dam are limited. It's best to drive or consider ride-sharing services. Check local Gold Coast bus routes, but direct services to the dam are uncommon.
From the Gold Coast, take Nerang-Murwillumbah Road inland. Hinze Dam is well-signposted along this route. The drive offers scenic views of the hinterland.
Yes, there is parking available at Hinze Dam. However, on busy days, especially weekends or after significant rainfall, parking can become limited. Arrive early for the best chance of securing a spot.
Cycling to Lake Advancetown is possible, with Nerang-Murwillumbah Road offering a scenic route. Be aware of traffic, especially on weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Hinze Dam visitor areas, including the dam wall and surrounding grounds, is generally free. There are no admission tickets required for general access.
The visitor areas and grounds of Hinze Dam are typically open daily from dawn till dusk. The cafe has its own operating hours, which can vary.
Seqwater occasionally runs informative tours of Hinze Dam. It's highly recommended to check the Seqwater website for tour availability, schedules, and booking information, as these often require advance reservation.
While the grounds are generally accessible from dawn till dusk, it's advisable to check Seqwater's official guidelines regarding after-hours access for safety and security reasons.
General access is usually permitted, but specific areas might be closed for maintenance or safety. Always adhere to signage and instructions from dam staff.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walks along the dam wall, take photos of the stunning scenery, have a picnic, or visit the on-site cafe. Birdwatching is also popular.
Yes, there are easy walks along the dam wall and accessible concrete pathways throughout the grounds, suitable for all fitness levels.
Absolutely. The dam features wide, accessible concrete pathways and well-maintained grounds, making it easy for visitors with mobility challenges to explore.
Swimming is generally not permitted in Hinze Dam due to safety regulations and its function as a water supply. Always check local signage for specific rules.
Visitors can see the impressive dam structure, the vast Advancetown Lake, the surrounding native forest, and potentially the spillway if water levels are high.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located on-site at Hinze Dam that offers refreshments and food with views overlooking the lake.
The cafe typically serves a range of light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient spot to grab a bite while enjoying the scenery.
Yes, Hinze Dam provides ample picnic areas with covered tables and well-maintained lawn spaces, making it an ideal spot for a picnic.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great option, with plenty of designated areas to enjoy your meal amidst the natural beauty.
While picnic tables are available, dedicated BBQ facilities are not always advertised. It's best to confirm with Seqwater or local information sources if BBQs are provided.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam wall offers dramatic perspectives, lookout points provide sweeping vistas of the lake and landscape, and the spillway area is spectacular when active.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds. Sunny days offer vibrant colors, while overcast days can create a dramatic mood, especially if the spillway is flowing.
Drone usage is typically restricted at water supply dams for safety and privacy reasons. Always check Seqwater's drone policy before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the dam and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or details. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures if the spillway is active.
While dedicated photography tours aren't common, the informative Seqwater tours may offer insights into the dam's history and engineering, which can enhance your photographic appreciation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Hinze Dam's Water Levels
Checking the current dam levels via Seqwater's official channels before your visit is highly recommended. This will help you gauge the likelihood of seeing the spillway in action and manage your expectations for the visit. The dam's capacity and water management are crucial aspects of the region's infrastructure, and understanding this context adds another layer to the visitor experience.
When the dam is full or overflowing, the visual impact is dramatic and offers unique photographic opportunities. Even when not spilling, the vast expanse of the lake and the imposing structure of the dam itself are impressive sights. The surrounding natural environment also plays a significant role in the dam's appeal, offering a peaceful retreat.
Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Beyond the physical accessibility, the amenities contribute to a pleasant visit. A cafe is conveniently located on-site, providing refreshments and light meals with a view of the lake. This means visitors can easily grab a coffee or a snack without having to leave the immediate vicinity. For those who prefer to bring their own food, numerous picnic spots are available, encouraging a leisurely experience amidst the natural beauty.
The combination of accessible infrastructure and thoughtful amenities makes Hinze Dam a welcoming destination for a wide range of visitors, from families with young children to seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. The focus on ease of access and comfort ensures that the stunning natural scenery and impressive engineering of the dam can be appreciated by all.
Photography Opportunities at Advancetown Lake
When the dam is at or near capacity, the spillway becomes a major photographic subject. Witnessing water cascade over the spillway is a powerful and dynamic scene, offering opportunities for capturing motion and grandeur. Timing your visit after significant rainfall can yield the most dramatic results. The surrounding natural environment also provides ample subjects, from the textures of the rock and concrete dam to the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area.
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and the shadows are longer, adding depth to your images. While a wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive views, a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing wildlife. Remember to always be mindful of safety and any restricted areas when composing your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit