Smiths Lake

Smiths Lake is a serene coastal lake surrounded by the Myall Lakes National Park on the NSW Central Coast. Its calm, clear waters and sandy shores make it a perfect escape for kayaking, swimming, and lakeside picnics away from the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Glide across the lake's glassy surface, weaving through paperbark trees and spotting waterbirds like swans and pelicans.
• Lakeside Walks: Follow the Smiths Lake walking track along the foreshore for panoramic views and a chance to see goannas and wallabies.
• Swimming & Picnicking: The lake's calm, shallow edges are ideal for a safe dip. Pack a picnic and enjoy the shaded tables at the lake's northern end.
• Fishing: Cast a line for bream, flathead, and whiting from the bank or a kayak – a popular local pastime.
• Sunset Views: Watch the sky turn pink over the lake from the jetty near the caravan park – a photographer's dream.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find half a day sufficient to explore the lake – a morning kayak, a swim, and a picnic lunch. If you want to fish or do a longer paddle, plan for a full day. It's also a lovely spot for a quick two-hour stop on a road trip between Sydney and Port Stephens.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Myall Lakes National Park – just south, with walking trails, canoeing, and the stunning Bombah Broadwater.
• Seal Rocks – a tiny coastal village with a historic lighthouse and excellent surfing beaches, 15 minutes north.
• Boomerang Beach – a patrolled surf beach with rock pools and coastal views, five minutes east.
• Forster-Tuncurry – a larger town with shops, cafes, and the beautiful Wallis Lake, 30 minutes north.
• Pacific Palms – a cluster of beaches and lakes perfect for swimming and bushwalking, just around the corner.

Please check official sources for current details.