Ninety Mile Beach

Stretching along the New South Wales coast, Ninety Mile Beach is a wild, windswept expanse of golden sand that feels a world away from the state's more manicured coastal towns. This is a place for solitary walks, beachcombing, and watching the powerful surf roll in from the Tasman Sea. The beach is part of the Myall Lakes National Park, a vast system of coastal lakes and forests, making it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a raw, untamed coastal experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Endless Beach Walks: The beach lives up to its name, offering kilometres of near-empty sand. Walk north towards the mouth of the Myall River or simply pick a direction and feel the sea breeze.
• Myall Lakes National Park: Explore the park's lagoons, paperbark forests, and wetlands. Canoe, kayak, or take a cruise on the lakes to spot sea eagles, pelicans, and goannas.
• Lighthouse at Seal Rocks: A short drive south, the historic Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse offers dramatic clifftop views and a chance to see migrating whales (May–November).
• Sand Dunes at Stockton Bight: Just north of the beach, the Stockton Bight sand dunes are among the largest in the southern hemisphere. Try sandboarding or a 4WD tour.
• Fishing: The beach is renowned for its beach fishing – cast a line for bream, whiting, and tailor. Surf conditions can be strong, so check local advice.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a full day to truly soak in the atmosphere. Spend the morning walking a section of the beach, then head into the Myall Lakes National Park for a picnic and canoeing. If you're staying nearby, an overnight trip allows you to catch sunrise or sunset over the ocean. For a quick visit, two to three hours is enough for a short walk and a look at the dunes.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens: A 40-minute drive north, this popular holiday destination offers dolphin and whale watching, sandboarding at Stockton Bight, and the coastal town of Nelson Bay.
• Myall Lakes National Park: Directly adjacent to the beach – you can spend days exploring its waterways, walking trails, and camping grounds.
• Seal Rocks: A charming hamlet with a historic lighthouse, great surf beaches, and a small general store. Perfect for a relaxed lunch stop.
• Forster–Tuncurry: About an hour's drive north, these twin towns sit on the edge of Wallis Lake and offer great seafood, boat hire, and a laid-back vibe.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region: A 1.5-hour drive inland, this world-famous wine region provides a complete contrast – cellar doors, fine dining, and hot-air balloon rides over the vineyards.

Please check official sources for current details.