Wallis Lake

Wallis Lake is a vast, shimmering waterway that forms the heart of the Great Lakes region on the New South Wales mid-north coast. It's a paradise for water lovers, with calm, protected waters perfect for kayaking, sailing, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by national parks and sleepy coastal villages, offering a laid-back alternative to the nearby beachside buzz of Forster and Tuncurry. Whether you're casting a line for flathead or simply soaking up the serene beauty from a waterfront café, Wallis Lake feels like an authentic slice of Australian lake life.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayak or SUP through the mangroves: Paddle the quiet channels around the lake's edge – keep an eye out for pelicans, black swans and the occasional sea eagle overhead.
• Fish the lake's famous flathead and bream: The lake is a renowned fishing spot – hire a tinny or join a guided charter for the best chance of landing a keeper.
• Visit the Wallis Lake oyster leases: The lake produces some of Australia's finest Sydney rock oysters – sample them fresh at a local oyster shed or on a tour.
• Explore the sand spit at the lake's entrance: At the southern end, the lake meets the sea at a narrow entrance – a dramatic spot for a walk or a picnic with ocean views.
• Take a scenic cruise: Several operators run lunch or sunset cruises that weave through the lake's islands and waterways, with commentary on local history and wildlife.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least half a day to really experience Wallis Lake – a morning kayak followed by an oyster lunch is perfect. If you're keen to fish or explore the quieter northern reaches, a full day is ideal. Many travellers use it as a leisurely stop between Sydney and Byron Bay, spending a night in Forster or Tuncurry to enjoy the lake at sunrise and sunset.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster & Tuncurry: The twin towns straddling the lake's entrance offer great dining, beaches and the Booti Booti National Park walk.
• Seal Rocks: A tiny coastal hamlet with a historic lighthouse, pristine beaches and excellent surf – about 30 minutes south.
• Myall Lakes National Park: A vast system of freshwater lakes, rainforest and sand dunes – perfect for canoeing, birdwatching and bushwalking.
• Pacific Palms (Blueys Beach & Boomerang Beach): Stunning white-sand beaches and surf breaks, just a short drive north of the lake.

Please check official sources for current details.