The Lakes Way

Winding for 100 kilometres between the glittering Pacific Ocean and a chain of pristine coastal lakes, The Lakes Way is one of New South Wales’ great scenic drives. This laid-back route links the holiday towns of Forster and Port Macquarie, offering a string of sleepy villages, uncrowded beaches, and water-based adventures that feel a world away from the highway. It’s a road trip tailor-made for self-drive explorers who want to slow down, pull over for a swim, and soak up the easygoing lifestyle of the Mid North Coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Wallis Lake – The shimmering heart of the region, perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or a leisurely cruise past oyster farms. Stop at the lakeside town of Tuncurry for fresh seafood with a view.
• Booti Booti National Park – A narrow strip of coastal bush separating Wallis Lake from the ocean. Hike the short track to the top of Cape Hawke for panoramic views from Forster to Seal Rocks.
• Seal Rocks – A tiny, unspoilt settlement with a historic lighthouse, excellent surf breaks, and the chance to spot Australian fur seals basking on the rocks. The beach here is blissfully quiet midweek.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast network of lakes, rivers, and paperbark forests. Hire a canoe or join a guided kayak tour to explore the tea-coloured waterways and spot sea eagles and wallabies.
• Pacific Palms – This string of beaches – including the stunning Blueys Beach and Boomerang Beach – offers classic Aussie surf culture and a handful of excellent cafés and bakeries.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate The Lakes Way, allow a full day for the drive itself – but two or three days is ideal if you want to linger. Break the journey at Pacific Palms or Seal Rocks for a night, giving you time for a morning paddle on Myall Lake or a coastal walk in Booti Booti. The route is easily doable as a day trip from Port Macquarie or Forster, though you’ll be tempted to stay longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – A lively coastal city with a historic gaol, excellent coastal walks, and a thriving food scene. It’s the perfect northern bookend for your Lakes Way journey.
• Forster – The southern gateway to The Lakes Way, with a gorgeous main beach, a lively waterfront, and access to the pristine Manning River.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Just north of Port Macquarie, this park features dramatic sea cliffs, the iconic Diamond Head, and a beautiful coastal camping area.
• Barrington Tops National Park – A World Heritage-listed wilderness of ancient rainforests and alpine plateaus, about a 90-minute drive inland from Forster. Ideal for a day-hike or overnight trek.

Please check official sources for current details.