Bombah Point
Bombah Point is a serene, off-the-beaten-path destination on the northern edge of Myall Lakes National Park, where the Myall River meets the sea. This tiny settlement is all about water, wilderness, and slow travel—expect quiet beaches, bird-rich wetlands, and a tiny historic ferry that connects you to the wider Lakes Way. It’s the perfect place to break a coastal road trip with a picnic, a paddle, or a long, lazy walk.
Highlights & What to See
- Bombah Point Ferry – One of Australia’s last manually operated vehicular ferries, a charming cable-drawn punt that saves a long detour. It’s a delightful, slow-motion crossing over the Myall River.
- Myall Lakes National Park – Paddle or cruise the vast, tea-tree-stained lakes system, home to ospreys, sea eagles, and peaceful water-lily lagoons. Kayak hire is available at Bombah Point.
- Bombah Point Beach – A wild, undeveloped stretch of sand where the river meets the ocean. Great for a solitary swim or surf (watch for rips), and often empty even in peak season.
- Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk – A short, easy boardwalk through a lush littoral rainforest just south of Bombah Point, with towering cabbage tree palms and the sound of bellbirds.
- Dark Point Walking Track – A 4 km return coastal walk from Bombah Point to Dark Point, offering panoramic views over the lakes, the ocean, and the distant Sugarloaf Point lighthouse.
Suggested Time to Spend
Bombah Point is best enjoyed as a half-day stop or a full-day escape. If you’re driving the Lakes Way, allow 2–3 hours to take the ferry, explore the nearest beach, and walk the Mungo Brush boardwalk. For kayaking or a longer hike, plan for 4–6 hours. It also works as a quiet overnight: there’s a basic campground at Bombah Point for those who want to wake up to the sound of lapping water and kookaburras.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Hawks Nest – Just north across the ferry, this laid-back coastal village has a beautiful surf beach, a golf course, and great fish-and-chip takeaway shops.
- Tea Gardens – A charming historic town on the southern shore of Port Stephens, known for its waterfront cafes, art galleries, and dolphin-watching cruises.
- Myall Lakes National Park (southern section) – The park’s main entrance near Bulahdelah offers more walking tracks, the famous Grandis (a giant flooded gum), and excellent canoeing.
- Port Macquarie – About an hour north, this lively coastal city has a famous koala hospital, a historic convict-built breakwall, and a thriving food scene.
- Seal Rocks – A tiny, unspoiled settlement with a historic lighthouse, a pristine beach, and excellent surfing—about 45 minutes south via the ferry.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Hawks Nest — Alex Proimos from Sydney, Australia / CC BY 2.0
- Tea Gardens — George Morland / Public domain
- Myall Lakes National Park — Eduardo M. C. / CC BY 2.0
- Port Macquarie — Inas / CC0
- Bulahdelah — Sardaka ( talk ) 09:15, 29 March 2009 (UTC) / CC BY 3.0