Photo: Bianconero918 / CC BY-SA 3.0
Myall Lakes National Park is a serene water wonderland just north of Port Macquarie, where a chain of pristine lakes and rivers meets wild beaches and ancient forests. This is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in one of NSW's most tranquil natural landscapes.
Highlights & What to See
- Myall Lakes – Explore the interconnected lakes by kayak or canoe, paddling through placid waters fringed with paperbarks and teeming with birdlife.
- Bombah Broadwater – The largest lake in the system, perfect for swimming, fishing, or a leisurely picnic with sweeping water views.
- Seal Rocks – A short drive south, this rugged coastal headland offers dramatic ocean vistas, historic lighthouse, and excellent whale-watching from June to November.
- Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk – A gentle boardwalk loop through lush littoral rainforest, where you can spot wallabies, goannas, and colourful birds.
- Big Gibber – A striking sandstone rock platform on the beach, ideal for sunset photography and spotting dolphins surfing the waves.
- Boat Harbour Beach – A pristine, less-visited beach accessed via a short walking track, offering solitude and crystal-clear water.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors find that a full day is sufficient to experience the highlights, but staying two days allows you to truly unwind. Spend the first morning kayaking on the lakes, afternoon exploring the rainforest walk and Seal Rocks, and the second day beach-hopping and fishing. If you're self-driving, consider overnighting at one of the lakeside campgrounds for a complete immersion.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Port Macquarie – A lively coastal town with great cafés, the Koala Hospital, and the scenic coastal walk.
- Boomerang Beach & Blueys Beach – Stunning surf beaches just south, part of the Great Lakes region.
- Forster–Tuncurry – A charming twin-town with lake cruises, dolphin watching, and the Forster Marina.
- Wallis Lake – Famous for oysters, this lake offers kayaking and relaxed waterfront dining.
- Crowdy Bay National Park – North of Myall Lakes, featuring dramatic sea cliffs, coastal heath, and the historic Diamond Head.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.