Photo: paul bica / CC BY 2.0
Pacific Palms is a serene coastal haven on the NSW Central Coast, where emerald-green lakes meet pristine beaches and ancient paperbark forests. This laidback community, encompassing the villages of Blueys Beach, Boomerang Beach, and Elizabeth Beach, offers a quintessential Aussie beach escape without the crowds. The area is a paradise for kayakers, surfers, and nature lovers, with the stunning Wallis Lake and Myall Lakes National Park at its doorstep.
Highlights & What to See
- Blueys Beach – A stunning, patrolled beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun. The adjacent Blueys Beach Cafe is a local institution.
- Boomerang Beach – A long, sweeping beach that lives up to its name, offering consistent waves for surfers and a beautiful coastal walk linking to Blueys Beach.
- Elizabeth Beach – A quieter, family-friendly beach with a protected rock pool and calm waters, ideal for children.
- Wallis Lake – A vast, shallow lake system perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. Explore the tranquil waterways and spot birdlife like pelicans and black swans.
- Myall Lakes National Park – Just north, this park features ancient rainforests, towering paperbark trees, and the stunning Bombah Broadwater. Canoe through serene waterways or hike the Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk.
- Pacific Palms Recreation Reserve – A community hub with a playground, picnic areas, and a boat ramp, offering easy access to Wallis Lake.
Suggested Time to Spend
Pacific Palms is best enjoyed over 2–3 days to fully appreciate its natural beauty. Spend a full day exploring the beaches and lakes, another day venturing into Myall Lakes National Park, and a third for relaxation and local dining. The area is compact, so you can easily walk or cycle between beaches.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Forster–Tuncurry – A 25-minute drive north, these twin towns offer more beaches, the Great Lakes, and a vibrant waterfront dining scene.
- Seal Rocks – A tiny coastal village 20 minutes south, famous for its historic lighthouse, secluded beaches, and excellent surfing.
- Myall Lakes National Park – Extend your stay with a day trip or overnight camping in this pristine wilderness.
- Booti Booti National Park – Located between Pacific Palms and Forster, this park features coastal walks with panoramic views over the lakes and ocean.
- Smiths Lake – A peaceful lake system 15 minutes south, great for kayaking and birdwatching, with a popular café at the lakefront.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Forster–Tuncurry — Rob Freijs / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Seal Rocks — Jocey K / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Myall Lakes National Park — Eduardo M. C. / CC BY 2.0
- Booti Booti National Park — Anonymous Dissident / Public domain
- Smiths Lake — denisbin / CC BY-ND 2.0
- Blueys Beach — Zax71 / CC BY 4.0