Pacific Palms

Pacific Palms is a serene coastal enclave on the NSW Mid North Coast, where the Great Lakes meet the sea. Think quiet beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and a laid-back vibe that feels a world away from the nearby tourist hubs. It's a haven for kayakers, anglers, and anyone who loves a good coastal walk.

Highlights & What to See

• Blueys Beach – A stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The adjacent café serves excellent coffee.
• Boomerang Beach – A patrolled surf beach with consistent waves, ideal for intermediate surfers. The headland offers panoramic views.
• Wallis Lake – Paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard across these calm, oyster-filled waters. Hire gear from the local shack and explore the mangrove-lined shores.
• Pacific Palms Recreation Reserve – A grassy picnic area with a playground and boat ramp, great for families. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the channel.
• Shelly Beach – A small, sheltered cove at the southern end of the lake system, popular for snorkelling and spotting sea turtles.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days allows you to settle into the rhythm of the place. Spend day one exploring the beaches and lagoons, day two on the water (kayaking or fishing), and day three taking a coastal walk or simply relaxing. If you're short on time, a long day trip from Forster or Taree can cover the highlights, but you'll want to stay longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster-Tuncurry – 20 minutes north, with a lively foreshore, great restaurants, and the Booti Booti National Park.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast water-based wilderness of lakes and forests, ideal for canoeing and camping.
• Seal Rocks – A tiny coastal hamlet with a historic lighthouse, excellent surf, and a colony of Australian fur seals.
• Port Stephens – About an hour south, offering dolphin cruises, sand dunes at Stockton Beach, and the Tomaree Head summit walk.
• Gloucester – Inland, with a charming historic village and access to the Barrington Tops wilderness.

Please check official sources for current details.