Shallow Inlet

Shallow Inlet is a tranquil coastal lagoon on the southern edge of the Hunter Valley, where the Myall River meets the Tasman Sea. Its protected waters, sandy spits, and abundant birdlife make it a serene escape from the wine-country crowds. Kayaking, fishing, and spotting migratory waders are the main draws here, with the backdrop of Bombah Point and the Myall Lakes National Park adding a wild, untamed feel.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayak the Inlet – Paddle through calm, shallow waters fringed by paperbarks and mangroves; it’s the best way to explore the labyrinthine channels and spot sea eagles, pelicans, and black swans.
• Birdwatching at Bombah Broadwater – Just north, this expansive lake is a haven for migratory birds, including spoonbills and herons, especially from October to March.
• Fish from the Shore – The inlet’s flats teem with bream, flathead, and whiting; cast a line from the sandy banks near the entrance for a quiet afternoon.
• Bombah Point Ferry – Take the free, hand-pulled punt across the Myall River – a charming, low-tech crossing that’s an attraction in itself.
• Myall Lakes National Park – The park’s walking tracks, like the Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk, offer a cool, green contrast to the inlet’s open waters.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough to kayak a loop, have a picnic, and fish from the shore. If you’re keen on walking or birdwatching, plan a full day, including a stop at Bombah Point. The inlet is best visited as a relaxed morning or afternoon outing from Hawks Nest or Tea Gardens, fitting neatly into a Hunter Valley itinerary that balances vineyards with wild coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hawks Nest – A laid-back beach town with dunes and surf, just a 10-minute drive south.
• Tea Gardens – Charming village on the Myall River, known for its oyster shacks and dolphin-watching cruises.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Expansive wetlands and rainforest walks, ideal for hiking and canoeing.
• Port Stephens – 45 minutes south, offering dolphin cruises, sandboarding at Stockton Beach, and the Tomaree Head summit walk.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – An hour west, the region’s cellar doors, restaurants, and hot-air ballooning provide a classic contrast to the inlet’s wild serenity.

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