Booti Booti National Park

Stretching along a narrow peninsula between Wallis Lake and the Tasman Sea, Booti Booti National Park is a dazzling pocket of coastal wilderness just south of Forster. Its name, derived from the local Aboriginal word for 'plenty of birds', hints at the rich wildlife you'll encounter among the paperbarks, coastal banksias and pristine beaches. This is a place for walkers, swimmers and kayakers seeking unspoiled nature without the crowds – a genuine slice of the NSW mid-north coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Seven Mile Beach – a glorious sweep of golden sand backed by dunes and spotted with surf breaks. It's patrolled in season, making it ideal for a safe family swim or a long, barefoot stroll.
• Wallis Lake – the calm, fish-rich lake on the western side is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or a gentle paddle in a hire boat. Keep an eye out for pelicans and black swans.
• Booti Hill Walking Track – a 2.5 km return walk through coastal scrub and tall eucalypts to a lookout with sweeping views over the lake and ocean. It's steep in parts but rewards with a stunning panorama.
• Lakeside picnic spots – shaded tables and barbecues near the water at The Ruins campground make for a relaxed lunch with a view. The resident goannas might pay a visit.
• Birdwatching – the park is a haven for shorebirds, honeyeaters and the endangered little tern. Bring binoculars and a field guide.

Suggested Time to Spend

Booti Booti is compact enough to explore in a half-day, but its laid-back vibe and varied activities encourage a longer stay. For a satisfying visit, allow at least 3–4 hours to walk the Booti Hill track, paddle on the lake and relax on the beach. If you can, spend a full day – pack a picnic, hire a kayak and watch the sun set over Wallis Lake. Overnight camping at The Ruins or Seven Mile Beach campgrounds lets you experience the dawn chorus and the quiet after the day-trippers leave.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster – just 15 minutes north, this lively coastal town has excellent cafes, a marina and the stunning One Mile Beach. Perfect for stocking up on supplies or a post-walk fish and chips.
• Cape Hawke – a short drive south, the Cape Hawke lookout offers a 360-degree view of the coastline and the Great Dividing Range. It's a superb spot for whale watching (June–November).
• Myall Lakes National Park – a vast system of lakes and waterways 30 minutes south, ideal for extended kayaking, fishing and camping. Combine with Booti Booti for a multi-day water- and bush-based itinerary.
• Seal Rocks – a sleepy hamlet with a historic lighthouse, excellent surfing and the chance to spot seals. It's about 40 minutes south via scenic coastal roads.

Please check official sources for current details.