Myall Lakes National Park

Myall Lakes National Park is a serene water wonderland on the NSW Mid North Coast, where the shimmering lakes, wild beaches, and ancient paperbark forests create a blissful escape for paddlers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. Just north of Port Macquarie, this park offers a quieter, more intimate slice of coastal wilderness than its famous southern neighbours.

Highlights & What to See

• Paddle the Myall Lakes System – Glide through the interconnected lakes and winding creeks by kayak or canoe, weaving past mirrored reflections of tea-tree and paperbark. It’s one of NSW’s best flat-water paddling destinations.
• Wild Beaches & Coastal Walks – Hike the Mungo Track to the remote and often empty Mungo Beach, or explore the dramatic sand dunes at Jimmy’s Beach. The Lakeside Walking Track offers easy strolls with birdlife aplenty.
• Bombah Point & the Historic Ferry – Catch the tiny Bombah Point cable ferry across the lake – a quirky, car-carrying punt that’s been operating since the 1930s. It’s the only way to cross without a long detour.
• Birdwatching Heaven – Spot white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys, and the rare little tern along the shorelines. The park is part of the Myall Lakes Important Bird Area.
• Camping Under the Stars – Stay at The Ruins or Mungo Brush campgrounds, where you can fall asleep to the sound of lapping water and cicadas.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least a full day to explore the lakes and a beach walk. To truly soak up the serenity, spend two days – one paddling the main lake and visiting Bombah Point, the other hiking to Mungo Beach or relaxing at a campground. It’s an easy day trip from Port Macquarie (45 minutes north) but overnight stays reward you with dawn paddles and empty beaches.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Combine with the coastal town’s historic gaol, Koala Hospital, and Tacking Point Lighthouse for a mix of culture and nature.
• Seal Rocks – Just north, this sleepy village offers stunning coastal walks and a lighthouse with whale-watching vantage points.
• Boomerang Beach & Pacific Palms – A short drive north, these pristine surf beaches and the Booti Booti National Park are perfect for a coastal road trip.
• Smiths Lake – A quieter lake system adjacent to Myall Lakes, great for fishing and kayaking with fewer crowds.
• Bulahdelah – Stop at this historic timber town for provisions and a walk up to the Alum Mountain lookout for panoramic views over the lakes.

Please check official sources for current details.