Great Lakes

Stretching along the NSW mid-north coast, the Great Lakes region is a serene waterworld of shimmering lagoons, winding rivers, and golden beaches. This aquatic playground, part of the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, offers a blissful escape for kayakers, anglers, and nature lovers. With laid-back villages and abundant birdlife, it’s a place to slow down and immerse yourself in the rhythm of the tides.

Highlights & What to See

• Myall Lakes National Park — Paddle through a maze of tea-tree-lined lakes and spot sea eagles overhead. The Bombah Broadwater canoe trail is a must.
• Walls of China — These striking white sand dunes at Stockton Bight are perfect for sandboarding or a sunset hike.
• Seal Rocks — A tiny coastal hamlet with a historic lighthouse and prime surfing breaks. Look for seals basking on the rocks.
• Booti Booti National Park — A narrow strip of rainforest and coastal heath between Wallis Lake and the ocean, with short walks to stunning lookouts.
• Pacific Palms — This collection of beaches (Blueys, Boomerang, Shelley) offers patrolled swimming, rock pools, and a buzzing café scene.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least two days to explore the Great Lakes properly. Spend one day paddling or cruising on Myall Lake and exploring the national park, then a second day hopping between the beaches and dunes. If you’re a keen fisher or kayaker, three days will let you soak up the slow pace and discover hidden corners.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie — 45 minutes north, with its koala hospital and coastal walk.
• Forster-Tuncurry — The twin towns at the entrance to Wallis Lake, great for seafood and dolphin cruises.
• Barrington Tops National Park — A dramatic rainforest and alpine plateau inland, ideal for hiking and waterfall-chasing.
• Nelson Bay & Port Stephens — An hour south, famous for dolphin watching and the towering sand dunes of Stockton Bight.
• Myall River — A peaceful waterway perfect for a self-guided kayak trip from Bulahdelah to the coast.

Please check official sources for current details.