Great Lakes Marine Park

Stretching from the southern edge of Port Stephens to the northern reaches of Myall Lakes, Great Lakes Marine Park is a sprawling aquatic wonderland where pristine rivers, shimmering lakes, and the wild Pacific Ocean converge. This protected sanctuary encompasses over 32,000 hectares of diverse marine habitats, including seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, rocky reefs, and sandy beaches. It’s a paradise for kayakers, anglers, snorkelers, and nature lovers seeking uncrowded beauty just a few hours north of Sydney.

Highlights & What to See

• Myall Lakes National Park – Paddle through the tranquil, tea-tree-stained waters of the Myall Lakes system, part of a Ramsar-listed wetland teeming with birdlife, including ospreys and white-bellied sea eagles.
• Port Stephens – Little Beach & Fingal Island – Snorkel or dive among colourful fish and occasional sea turtles at the protected waters off Little Beach, or take a short boat trip to Fingal Island to see the historic Point Stephens Lighthouse.
• Broughton Island – A secluded offshore island with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, fishing, and spotting dolphins and migrating humpback whales (June–November).
• The Entrance & Tuggerah Lakes – Watch the daily pelican feeding at The Entrance, then explore the shallow, bird-rich Tuggerah Lakes system by kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
• Wallis Lake – Famous for its oyster farms, this expansive lake offers calm waters for sailing, kayaking, and fishing, with the charming town of Forster on its shores.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the park’s diversity, plan for at least two full days. Spend the first day exploring the Myall Lakes by kayak or boat, with a stop for a picnic on a secluded beach. On the second day, head to Port Stephens for a snorkeling or whale-watching tour, or visit Broughton Island. If you have a third day, add a leisurely paddle on Wallis Lake followed by fresh oysters at a waterfront café. The park is easily broken into day trips from Newcastle or Sydney, but staying overnight in a coastal town like Nelson Bay or Forster allows you to catch sunrise over the water.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – A vibrant coastal hub with dolphin cruises, sand dunes at Stockton Beach, and excellent seafood restaurants.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Directly adjacent, this park offers walking trails, camping, and the chance to spot goannas and wallabies.
• Forster & Tuncurry – Twin towns on Wallis Lake, known for their surf beaches, oyster leases, and the scenic Forster-Tuncurry Bridge walk.
• Seal Rocks – A tiny, unspoiled coastal village with a historic lighthouse, great surfing, and a colony of Australian fur seals.
• Booti Booti National Park – A narrow coastal park between Wallis Lake and the ocean, offering beautiful walks and lookout points.

Please check official sources for current details.