Photo: Zax71 / CC BY 4.0
Blueys Beach is a slice of coastal perfection on the NSW mid-north coast, where a necklace of turquoise water meets powdery white sand and a laid-back vibe that feels a world away from the crowds. Part of the Booti Booti National Park, this pocket-sized beach is a favourite among locals and in-the-know travellers for its calm swimming, excellent surf breaks, and easy access to the stunning Wallis Lake. Whether you're chasing a sunrise paddle or a lazy afternoon with a book, Blueys Beach delivers a quintessential Australian beach day.
Highlights & What to See
- Blueys Beach itself – a pristine crescent of sand with gentle waves perfect for swimming and bodyboarding. The northern end offers a reef break for more experienced surfers.
- Booti Booti National Park – walk the short but rewarding track to the top of Booti Booti Hill for panoramic views of the beach, Wallis Lake, and the Pacific Ocean.
- Wallis Lake – just across the road, this vast estuary is ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. Hire a kayak from the local shack and explore the serene waterways.
- Pacific Palms – the tiny village at Blueys Beach has a general store, a popular café (try the fish tacos), and a relaxed community feel. Grab a coffee and watch the world go by.
- Elizabeth Beach and Shelly Beach – two other stunning beaches within the national park, linked by a scenic coastal walk. Shelly Beach is a top snorkelling spot.
Suggested Time to Spend
Blueys Beach is best as a day trip or a relaxed overnight stop. If you're driving the Lakes Way between Forster and Seal Rocks, allow at least half a day to swim, walk the Booti Booti track, and enjoy a meal at the café. For a more immersive stay, book a night or two in one of the beachfront holiday rentals – you'll wake to the sound of waves and have time to kayak on Wallis Lake at sunset. Combine with a morning at nearby Cape Hawke lookout for a full day of coastal exploration.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Forster-Tuncurry – a 20-minute drive north, this twin-town hub offers more dining, shopping, and the stunning One Mile Beach.
- Seal Rocks – a 30-minute drive south, this wild coastal area is famous for its lighthouse, seal colony, and dramatic rock formations. Great for a scenic drive and photography.
- Myall Lakes National Park – a 40-minute drive south, this vast wilderness of lakes, forests, and dunes is perfect for bushwalking, canoeing, and birdwatching.
- Cape Hawke – a short detour from Forster, this lookout offers 360-degree views of the coast and hinterland – especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
- Smiths Lake – a peaceful lake village just north of Blueys, ideal for kayaking and enjoying the local pub.
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
- Cape Hawke — Rob Freijs / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Smiths Lake — denisbin / CC BY-ND 2.0
- Pacific Palms — paul bica / CC BY 2.0