Mungo Brush

Mungo Brush is a sleepy coastal hamlet on the northern edge of the Myall Lakes National Park, a landscape of shimmering lakes, wild beaches, and dense paperbark forests. This is a place for those who crave solitude and raw nature – think kayaking through mirrored waterways, spotting sea eagles overhead, and walking empty stretches of sand. It's a classic stop on a Great Lakes road trip, offering a genuine escape from the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayak or canoe the Myall Lakes: The calm, tea-coloured lakes are perfect for paddling. Rent a canoe from the Mungo Brush General Store and explore the labyrinth of channels and islands.
• Mungo Brush Beach: A wild, unpatrolled beach backed by dunes and banksias. Walk north to find the wreck of the Maitland, a steam ship that ran aground in 1898 – its rusted skeleton is a haunting sight at low tide.
• Bombah Point: A short drive south, this ferry crossing (free, cable-operated) connects to the southern lakes. The nearby Bombah Point Eco Cottages offer a great lunch spot with lake views.
• Dark Point Walking Track: A 2.5 km loop through coastal heath and sand dunes, culminating in panoramic views over the lakes and the ocean. Look for whales during migration (June–November).
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for goannas, wallabies, and a stunning array of birdlife, including ospreys, pelicans, and the rare powerful owl.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers spend a half-day to a full day here, combining a paddle on the lake with a walk on the beach. If you're staying in the area (e.g., at the basic lakeside campground or one of the holiday houses), two days allows you to explore the entire Myall Lakes system, including the quieter southern reaches. For a self-drive itinerary, Mungo Brush works well as a morning stop en route from Port Macquarie to Hawks Nest or Tea Gardens.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Myall Lakes National Park – the protected heart of the region, with more walking tracks, picnic spots, and abundant wildlife.
• Hawks Nest – a laid-back coastal town just south of the Bombah Point ferry, with excellent fishing and the dramatic Jimmy's Beach.
• Tea Gardens – a charming historic village on the Myall River, known for its waterfront cafes and the Myall River ferry to Nelson Bay.
• Port Macquarie – 1.5 hours north, this coastal city offers the Koala Hospital, Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, and a lively dining scene.
• Seal Rocks – a tiny surf village with a photogenic lighthouse and some of the best uncrowded waves on the coast.

Please check official sources for current details.