Myall Lakes National Park

Myall Lakes National Park is a serene water wonderland on the NSW Central Coast, where a vast network of lakes, rivers, and beaches invites you to paddle, swim, and explore. This is a place of quiet beauty – think mirrored waterways fringed by paperbark forests, dunes that roll into the sea, and a sense of seclusion that feels a world away from the nearby holiday towns. It’s a top pick for travellers who love kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting (look for sea eagles and kangaroos), and it’s easily woven into a self-drive itinerary from Sydney or Newcastle.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayak the Myall Lakes system – Paddle through the interconnected lakes and narrow channels, passing through quiet bays and bird-rich wetlands. It’s the best way to experience the park’s heart.
• Bombah Point – This historic ferry crossing (a small punt) takes you across the lake and is an adventure in itself; the short walk to the nearby lookout offers sweeping views.
• Mungo Brush – A beautiful stretch of sand where the lake meets the sea; perfect for a swim, a picnic, or a walk along the beach.
• Grandis picnic area – Set among towering flooded gums (including one of the tallest in NSW), this is a great spot for lunch and a short rainforest stroll.
• Wildlife encounters – Keep an eye out for wallabies, goannas, and over 200 bird species, including the glossy black-cockatoo.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least a full day – the park is spread out and the best bits involve water activities. If you’re keen to kayak or canoe, set aside a whole day to explore the lakes and stop at a sandy beach for a swim. Overnight camping is possible at several lakeside campgrounds (book ahead in peak season) and is well worth it for the sunrise paddles and starry nights. A half-day visit works if you just want to see Bombah Point and have a quick swim at Mungo Brush, but you’ll miss the magic of the waterways.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – Just an hour north, this coastal hub offers dolphin cruises, sand dunes at Stockton Beach, and excellent seafood.
• Seal Rocks – A sleepy coastal village with a historic lighthouse, great surf, and a colony of Australian fur seals.
• Bungwahl – The tiny settlement at the park’s entrance; stop for supplies or a coffee at the general store.
• Booti Booti National Park – A smaller park with dramatic coastal walks and a beautiful lagoon, just south of Myall Lakes.
• Pacific Palms – A string of stunning beaches (Elizabeth Beach, Shelly Beach) with clear water and good surfing, close to the park’s southern edge.

Please check official sources for current details.