Photo: Bianconero918 / CC BY-SA 3.0
Myall Lakes is a stunning coastal lake system in New South Wales, offering a serene escape into nature with its vast waterways, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. This Ramsar-listed wetland is a paradise for kayakers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking tranquility away from the crowds.
Highlights & What to See
- Myall Lakes National Park – Explore the interconnected lakes, rivers, and forests by kayak or canoe, spotting dolphins, sea eagles, and goannas.
- Bombah Point – A historic ferry crossing and a great spot for fishing or a picnic with lake views.
- Mungo Brush – Walk through coastal rainforest and discover the ruins of an old timber town.
- Seal Rocks – A nearby coastal village with stunning beaches, a historic lighthouse, and excellent surfing.
- Birdwatching – Over 200 species, including swans, pelicans, and the rare little tern.
- Camping – Stay at basic campgrounds like Mungo Brush or Bombah Point for a true bush experience.
Suggested Time to Spend
Myall Lakes deserves at least two days to fully appreciate its beauty. Spend the first day kayaking or boating through the lakes, stopping for a swim or picnic. On the second day, explore the coastal side, including Seal Rocks and the lighthouse, or take a guided tour to learn about the area's Aboriginal heritage. If you're short on time, a full day can still give you a taste, but you'll want to return.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Port Stephens – A short drive south, offering dolphin cruises, sand dunes, and the Tomaree National Park.
- Nelson Bay – A lively coastal town with restaurants, shops, and whale-watching tours (seasonal).
- Hunter Valley Wine Region – Combine lake serenity with wine tasting and gourmet food in Australia's oldest wine region.
- Barrington Tops National Park – A World Heritage-listed wilderness with rainforest walks and camping, about 1.5 hours away.
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
- Port Stephens — AussieLegend / Public domain
- Nelson Bay — Rmonty119 / CC BY 2.0
- Hunter Valley Wine Region — F Delventhal / CC BY 2.0
- Barrington Tops National Park — MrActiniuM / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Seal Rocks — Jocey K / CC BY-SA 2.0