Photo: paul bica / CC BY 2.0
Pacific Palms is a serene coastal escape on the NSW Mid North Coast, where untouched national parks meet pristine beaches and calm, turquoise lakes. This collection of small villages—including Blueys Beach, Boomerang Beach, and Elizabeth Beach—offers a laid-back, nature-focused alternative to busier holiday spots. The area is a haven for kayaking, paddleboarding, and coastal walks, with a strong local food scene centred on fresh seafood and artisan produce. Whether you're seeking solitude or family-friendly adventures, Pacific Palms delivers a quintessential Australian beach holiday.
Highlights & What to See
- Blueys Beach – A stunning stretch of white sand with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The adjacent Blueys Lake is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding.
- Boomerang Beach – A patrolled surf beach that draws longboarders and families alike, with a lively café strip and picnic spots.
- Elizabeth Beach – Sheltered and calm, this beach is a favourite for snorkelling and kayaking, backed by a lush reserve.
- Wallis Lake – A vast, shallow estuary system that is a paradise for kayakers and birdwatchers. Hire a kayak or join a guided tour to explore its secluded islands and oyster leases.
- Booti Booti National Park – A coastal gem with walking trails through paperbark swamps and littoral rainforest, offering panoramic views from the Cape Hawke lookout.
- Pacific Palms Oysters – Sample locally farmed Sydney rock oysters at the Pacific Palms Oyster Farm or at one of the waterfront shacks.
Suggested Time to Spend
Pacific Palms is best enjoyed over three to four days, allowing time to explore each beach, paddle on the lakes, and tackle a coastal walk. Two days can cover the highlights, but a longer stay lets you truly unwind. Mornings are perfect for water activities, while afternoons are ideal for a bushwalk or a lazy lunch at a beachfront café. If you're self-driving, consider breaking the journey with a stop at Forster or Port Stephens.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Forster-Tuncurry – A larger coastal hub 20 minutes north, with a lively marina, whale-watching cruises, and the stunning One Mile Beach.
- Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of waterways and forests 30 minutes south, offering superb canoeing, fishing, and the iconic Mungo Brush walk.
- Port Stephens – An hour's drive south, famous for sand dunes, dolphin cruises, and the Tomaree Head summit walk.
- Barrington Tops National Park – A World Heritage-listed wilderness two hours inland, with ancient rainforests and alpine walks.
- Seal Rocks – A tiny, unspoiled coastal village 15 minutes south, home to a historic lighthouse and excellent surf breaks.
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
- Myall Lakes National Park — Eduardo M. C. / CC BY 2.0
- Port Stephens — AussieLegend / Public domain
- Barrington Tops National Park — MrActiniuM / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Seal Rocks — Jocey K / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Booti Booti National Park — Anonymous Dissident / Public domain