View from View Cafe
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Lake Advancetown

4.6
·2k reviews·Advancetown, Australia

Impressive dam with scenic lake views, accessible paths, and a cafe. A peaceful spot for walks and picnics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

After heavy rain

Witness the impressive spillway

CrowdMedium
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View from View Cafe

Lake Advancetown

Best Time

After heavy rain

Witness the impressive spillway

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Impressive dam with scenic lake views, accessible paths, and a cafe. A peaceful spot for walks and picnics.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"The views of the water, dam, and surrounding native forest were just amazing."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hinze Dam Wall Walk

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.

Reddit
Advancetown Lake Vista

Advancetown Lake Vista

Lookout Points

Capture stunning vistas of the tranquil waters, lush greenery, and the imposing dam structure. Perfect for photography.

Reddit
Spillway Spectacle

Spillway Spectacle

Spillway Area

Witness the powerful spectacle of water cascading over the spillway during periods of high rainfall – a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Check Dam Levels Before You Go

Advancetown Lake, also known as Hinze Dam, can fluctuate significantly. Recent heavy rains have seen levels rise dramatically, impacting water flow and potential spillway activity. Check Seqwater's website for current dam levels before your visit to manage expectations. Reddit

Accessibility and Amenities

The dam offers well-maintained paths suitable for all mobility levels, with accessible concrete pathways and lawn spaces. A cafe is available on-site for refreshments, and picnic areas are plentiful. Reddit

Best Times

When
After heavy rain
Why
Witness the impressive spillway
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Bright views & birdlife
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A standing pressure wave causes clouds to form under a dam 😳 #engineering #spooky #dam #flood
@bubba.edu
58.6K likes • 730.7K views

Check Dam Levels First

Confirm current water levels on Seqwater's site to know if the spillway is active. Reddit :information_desk:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Easy walks along the dam wall and surrounding paths. :athletic_shoe:

Tried and tested three times by a very persistent boyfriend #fyp #fy #boyfriend #boy #couple #hooverdam #vegas #america
@anniethomsen11
25.6K likes • 934.1K views
Advancetown Lake❤️ #australia #queensland #viral #travel #nature #goldcoast
m_aatir_n
4 likes • 161 views

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:

Advancetown Lake It was so peaceful out on the lake today. I love solo paddles, it has a different feeling, so much much more zen 🧘‍♀️📿 #peacefulpaddleboarding #womenwhosup #supqueensland #supaustralia
two_sup_girls
42 likes • 382 views

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. Reddit :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

4.6
(2k reviews)

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

Stunning lake and dam views
Accessible walking paths
Great picnic spots

What People Dislike

Parking can be hectic
Cafe view partially obscured

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Cycling to Lake Advancetown is possible, with Nerang-Murwillumbah Road offering a scenic route. Be aware of traffic, especially on weekends. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

General access is usually permitted, but specific areas might be closed for maintenance or safety. Always adhere to signage and instructions from dam staff. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit+1

Yes, there are easy walks along the dam wall and accessible concrete pathways throughout the grounds, suitable for all fitness levels. Reddit

Absolutely. The dam features wide, accessible concrete pathways and well-maintained grounds, making it easy for visitors with mobility challenges to explore. Reddit

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. Reddit

Visitors can see the impressive dam structure, the vast Advancetown Lake, the surrounding native forest, and potentially the spillway if water levels are high. Reddit+1

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located on-site at Hinze Dam that offers refreshments and food with views overlooking the lake. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, Hinze Dam provides ample picnic areas with covered tables and well-maintained lawn spaces, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great option, with plenty of designated areas to enjoy your meal amidst the natural beauty. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at water supply dams for safety and privacy reasons. Always check Seqwater's drone policy before flying. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hinze Dam is a fantastic spot for families. The wide, accessible paths along the dam wall are perfect for strollers and little legs, making it easy for everyone to explore. Reddit There are plenty of open grassy areas for kids to run around, and the on-site cafe offers a convenient place to refuel with snacks and meals. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated spots, and keep an eye out for the local birdlife – it’s a great way to engage children with nature. The sheer size of the dam is also impressive and can spark curiosity about engineering and water conservation.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who enjoy a leisurely stroll, Hinze Dam offers pleasant walking opportunities. The dam wall provides a flat, paved surface for an easy walk with rewarding views. Reddit The surrounding grounds are also pleasant for exploring, with opportunities to observe native flora and fauna. Birdwatchers will find the area particularly appealing, with various species often spotted in the trees and around the water. Reddit It's a peaceful environment to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air.

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Hinze Dam a visually rich location. The imposing structure of the dam, the expansive lake, and the surrounding hinterland offer diverse compositions. Reddit The spillway, when active, provides a dramatic and powerful subject. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the landscape. Reddit Remember to check Seqwater's guidelines regarding drone usage if you plan on aerial photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Hinze Dam's Water Levels

Advancetown Lake, officially known as Hinze Dam, is a vital water source for the Gold Coast. Its water levels can fluctuate significantly based on rainfall. Recent periods of heavy rain have seen the dam reach impressive heights, with Little Nerang Dam spilling into Hinze Dam, pushing it towards full capacity. Reddit This dynamic can lead to the spectacular sight of water flowing over the spillway, a major drawcard for visitors. It's important to note that the dam typically needs to reach around 150% capacity for water to overflow, a testament to its immense storage potential. Reddit

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. Reddit

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

Hinze Dam has been designed with visitor accessibility in mind, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone. The dam wall itself features wide, accessible concrete pathways, making it easy for individuals using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or prams to navigate and enjoy the views. Reddit The surrounding grounds are also well-maintained, offering ample lawn space and covered picnic tables, perfect for a relaxing day out.

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. Reddit 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

Lake Advancetown (Hinze Dam) presents a wealth of photographic opportunities, catering to both casual snappers and more serious photographers. The sheer scale of the dam wall provides dramatic angles, especially when framed against the expansive sky or the serene waters of the lake. Reddit Lookout points offer panoramic vistas, allowing you to capture the vastness of the reservoir and the surrounding lush, native forest. These vantage points are ideal for landscape photography, showcasing the interplay of water, land, and sky. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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