Things to Do in Seal Rocks

Discover Seal Rocks: Your ultimate things to do guide

You will often hear Seal Rocks described as a coastal paradise, and this is no exaggeration. Raw, rugged and remote, this tiny village has some of the most spectacular scenery on Australia’s east coast. Soaring headlands frame picture-perfect coves ideal for swimming, while wild ocean beaches serve up powerful waves. Apart from a smattering of houses and some low-key beachfront camping options, Seal Rocks is utterly unspoilt. Being here is like taking a trip back in time, which makes it a blissful get-away-from-it-all vacation.

No matter how you want to spend your time here - catching a wave, hiking the coastal trails, kicking back on the beach with the kids, or exploring surrounding national parks, you are sure to fall in love with Seal Rocks.

Whether you’re a newbie, or you’ve been here again and again, here’s a handy list of things to do in Seal Rocks.

Outdoor activities

Surfing and swimming

Sandy coves lapped by shimmering turquoise water entice swimmers and snorkelers and are ideal for families. Looking to catch a wave? Number One Beach is a good spot for beginners, while Lighthouse Beach and Treachery Beach have bigger waves. Experienced surfers will also find powerful right-handers up the road at Blueys Beach.

Number One Beach

The road into Seal Rocks winds through pristine forest, before suddenly emerging at the coast to reveal a jaw dropping view of Number One Beach. Sure, it’s the first beach you come to, but it’s so beautiful here, it could easily be the number one beach in NSW. With crystal-clear water framed by a wide sandy cove, this beach has 'holiday’ written all over it! Swim, snorkel, work on your tan, then explore the cliffs and picturesque rocky outcrops.

Boat Beach

Tucked between headlands, with colourful fishing boats dotting the shore, the atmospheric Boat Beach will have you racing for your camera. Conditions are almost always calm, so a day on Boat Beach tops the list of things to do at Seal Rocks with little ones. Keep an eye out for the giant shells sold by local fishermen - they make a great souvenir.

Lighthouse Beach

Facing south and set beneath the iconic Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, this is your go-to beach if the northeast winds are blowing and can be accessed with 4WD.

Treachery Beach

A short drive from the village, Treachery Beach is wild, windswept and more popular with surfers. Good for beach walking, it can also be accessed with 4WD.

Hiking and nature walks

With so much incredible scenery at Seal Rocks, things to do here naturally include exploring, so make sure to pack your hiking shoes.

Treachery Headland walk

This trail is a little steep in sections, but the panoramic views from the headland make it well worth the effort!

Beach walks

If you like to start your day with a brisk morning beach walk, head north along Number One Beach and you will come to dramatic cliffs.

Myall Lakes National Park Trails

A short drive from Seal Rocks, Myall Lakes National Park offers a range of trails through diverse ecosystems, from coastal heathlands to lush rainforests. Check alltrails.com for inspiration.

Lighthouse walk

At the northern end of Myall Lakes National Park is the historical Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, which is one of only two lighthouse towers in Australia with an external stairway. Located at the top of the rocky headland, the lighthouse overlooks the whole east coast, from the holiday park to the north to down around the coast to Treachery Beach. The path to historic Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse (circa 1875) winds through coastal bushland, with tantalising ocean glimpses, before opening to breathtaking views in all directions.

Fishing

Anglers can fish for bream, whiting and tailor fish right off Number One Beach and Boat Beach. On the other hand, fishing off the rocky points might land you some blackfish, or even yellowtail kingfish and longtail tuna in summer.

Nearby Myall Lakes are also home to many fish species, including bream, flathead and salmon.

Whale and dolphin watching

Thinking about what to do in Seal Rocks in the winter? How about whale watching? From May to October, these mighty sea giants cruise the east coast of Australia. Catch sight of them from the headlands and look out for dolphins too. You can see the local pod riding the waves year-round.

Attractions

There are great attractions to visit near Seal Rocks that suit a range of interests:

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

The historic lighthouse on Sugarloaf Point is one of Seal Rocks’ most iconic landmarks. Built in 1875, it offers panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline and surrounding beaches — and is a popular spot for sunset watching and occasional whale or dolphin sightings from the headland.

More Seal Rocks attractions

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Attractions

Number One Beach

0.16km from park

Number One Beach is well-named; it really could be the best beach in the state or even Australia: the beach, the views and the waters...

Learn more

Attractions

Boat Beach

0.94km from park

Boat Beach is framed by headlands, spectacular rocky outcrops and a steep house-peppered mainland. The beach here is nearly always...

Learn more

Attractions

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

1.69km from park

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse stands on a dramatic headland east of Seal Rocks village. Completed in 1875, it is the first lighthouse...

Learn more

Attractions

Lighthouse Beach - Seal Rocks

1.78km from park

Lighthouse Beach offers good diving, snorkelling, surfing and fishing in a spectacular wild landscape. The beach faces almost due...

Learn more

Attractions

Treachery Headland Walking Track

1.82km from park

Pass through coastal rainforest to scenic views of Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse on this lovely walk. Take the sidetrack to Treachery...

Learn more

Attractions

Treachery Beach

2.03km from park

Treachery Beach is one of those secret surfing spots you always hear about but wonder where they are. The headland here sticks out...

Learn more

Attractions

Submarine Beach Walking Track

3.56km from park

When you hanker for the feel of sand between your toes, this short and lovely walk will get you there. It links Yagon campground to...

Learn more

Attractions

Mining Road Fire Trail, Old Gibber Road Rire Trail

4.83km from park

The former Mining Road was constructed as an access road when the area was being mined for heavy mineral sands like rutile and zircon,...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Frothy Coffee Boatshed

5.09km from park

Come and join Frothy Coffee Boatshed, overlooking the vast expanse of Smiths Lake or better still, hire a boat and go for a paddle on the enticing lake....

Learn more

Attractions

Cellito Beach

5.95km from park

Cellito Beach, also known as Sandbar Beach, offers great views towards Seal Rocks as well as challenging surfing. The water is...

Learn more

Food and Drink

The Good Food Store

6km from park

The Good Food Store is a hidden gem located in the coastal town of Smiths Lakes. It offers a range of food to enjoy in store or to take home with you....

Learn more

Tours

GlideTime

6.13km from park

Imagine gliding over the water on the world's best electric hydrofoil board. Silent, wake-free and with zero emissions, you can...

Learn more

Attractions

Hearts Point picnic area

7.54km from park

Hearts Point picnic area is a lovely spot for a break in the northern edge of Myall Lakes National Park, at Neranie, that overlooks scenic Myall Lake....

Learn more

Attractions

Blueys Beach

8.85km from park

Blueys Beach is a famous beach located in the beautiful Pacific Palms precinct with great surfing, swimming and stunning views across to Seal Rocks....

Learn more

Attractions

St James' Church

8.94km from park

St James is a historic church which sits on the hill above Bungwahl and overlooks the beautiful Myall Lakes....

Learn more

Attractions

Trisha's on Blueys

9.45km from park

Trisha Fitzpatrick is a remarkably versatile artist, possessing the ability to tailor her artistic style to accommodate a diverse range of commissions....

Learn more

Tours

Gary Hughes Surface - School of Surf and Surf Consultancy

9.49km from park

Gary Hughes Surface offers learn to surf classes on the stunning beaches along the Barrington Coast. Popular beaches for lessons...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Drift Palms Cafe

9.51km from park

Drift Palms is a popular cafe located in the coastal town of Pacific Palms known to serve the best burgers in town....

Learn more

Food and Drink

Garden to Table Permaculture

9.53km from park

Nestled amongst a Eucalyptus forest on the Mid North Coast, Garden to Table Permaculture is just a three-hour drive north of Sydney...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Kembali Cafe

9.6km from park

A chilled-out café at Blueys Beach with fresh and healthy food infused with flavours from Indonesia. They serve only the freshest...

Learn more

Attractions

Boomerang Beach, Pacific Palms

10.47km from park

Boomerang Beach is the best surfing beach in the Pacific Palms precinct, with rock ledges helping to form great waves. The beach...

Learn more

Mar 21

Events

Sing Out Sister - The Recky

11.04km from park

The number one ladies only, sing and dance along party! Craving a much-needed girls' night out? Or maybe you're ready to experience...

Learn more

Attractions

Lake View Gallery

11.04km from park

Thanks to a collaborative effort with the Pacific Palms Recreation Club, affectionately known as 'The Recky,'...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Pacific Palms Recreation Club

11.04km from park

Pacific Palms Recreation Club offers a stunning location with unsurpassed views of Wallis Lake. Affectionately known as The Recky,...

Learn more

Jan 30 - Apr 26

Events

Pacific Palms Community Market

11.05km from park

Over 80 stalls to find that special thing you didn't know you needed until you saw it! The Pacific Palms Community Centre comes...

Learn more

Attractions

Shelly Beach, Pacific Palms

11.36km from park

Shelly Beach is a secluded beach that is accessed via a short walking trail from the road at Elizabeth Beach in the Pacific Palms...

Learn more

Attractions

Elizabeth Beach, Pacific Palms

11.37km from park

Elizabeth Beach is part of Booti Booti National Park at Pacific Palms. North-facing means this beach is often calm making it a great family beach....

Learn more

Attractions

Elizabeth Beach picnic area

11.46km from park

Framed by a scenic backdrop of the imposing Booti Hill, Elizabeth Beach is a popular spot for families, surfers and day-trippers....

Learn more

Attractions

Southern Boundary Trail

11.52km from park

It doesn’t matter how experienced you are on a mountain bike – Wallingat National Park has something to suit every level....

Learn more

Attractions

Gur-um-bee picnic area

12.28km from park

Gur-um-bee picnic area is an ideal base to explore the coastal forests within Wallingat National park, either on a car tour or by mountain bike....

Learn more

Attractions

Wallingat Forest Drive

12.38km from park

Prepare to see all Wallingat National Park has to offer in one easy drive. The 25 kilometre loop that is Wallingat Forest drive takes...

Learn more

Tours

Walking Rivers Pty Ltd - Myall Lakes

4.22km from park

Walking Rivers offers guided kayaking, abseiling and bushwalking adventures through the natural beauty of New South Wales national parks....

Learn more

Attractions

Booti Hill and Wallis Lake Walking Track

13.54km from park

The Booti Hill and Wallis Lake walking track touches both the ocean and the shores of Lake Wallis. Bring your swimmers and make a...

Learn more

Attractions

Sugar Creek picnic area

14.02km from park

Looking for a place to relax and admire nature? Walk through the forest? Maybe cook up a snag or two? Sugar Creek picnic area is a...

Learn more

Attractions

Cabbage Palm Loop Walking Track

14.02km from park

Cabbage Palm loop walking track begins at Sugar Creek picnic area in Wallingat National Park and follows the first section of Coachwood walk....

Learn more

Attractions

Sugar Creek Trail

14.04km from park

Sugar Creek trail, also known as Hotel Creek track, is a short walk through lush rainforest and dense palm forest....

Learn more

Attractions

Green Cathedral

14.14km from park

The Green Cathedral is a majestic open-air sanctuary and a unique feature of the Barrington Coast. It's a beautiful place with rough...

Learn more

Attractions

Coachwood Loop Walking Track

14.28km from park

This short loop walk in Wallingat National Park begins at Sugar Creek picnic area and wanders gently through striking cabbage palms...

Learn more

Dining & markets

Honestly, Seal Rocks is so gorgeous that once you arrive, you won’t want to leave. So come prepared, because there’s no cafes or restaurants here. But don’t panic, you can still get a barista coffee!

Single Fin Coffee Van is parked up outside the General Store and does chai latte, hot chocolate and yummy muffins too. Grab a takeaway and enjoy it while gazing out to sea from the lookout across the road.

Cafes and restaurants near Seal Rocks

• Excellent coffee, cooked breakfasts, decadent burgers, and a friendly buzz await at Blueys Beach Drift Cafe.
• Try Kembali Cafe, also at Blueys, for tasty breakfasts and Indonesian-inspired meals in casual surrounds.
• Craving pizza? Head to Hueys at Blueys.
• For serene views over Smiths Lake, Frothy Coffee Boatshed has a veranda right on the water and offers boat hire if you fancy a paddle
• Pre-order a seafood platter at Pacific Palms Seafood and pick it up on your way through to Seal Rocks. That’s dinner on your first night sorted!

More food and drink nearSeal Rocks

Filter by

Attractions

Number One Beach

0.16km from park

Number One Beach is well-named; it really could be the best beach in the state or even Australia: the beach, the views and the waters...

Learn more

Attractions

Boat Beach

0.94km from park

Boat Beach is framed by headlands, spectacular rocky outcrops and a steep house-peppered mainland. The beach here is nearly always...

Learn more

Attractions

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

1.69km from park

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse stands on a dramatic headland east of Seal Rocks village. Completed in 1875, it is the first lighthouse...

Learn more

Attractions

Lighthouse Beach - Seal Rocks

1.78km from park

Lighthouse Beach offers good diving, snorkelling, surfing and fishing in a spectacular wild landscape. The beach faces almost due...

Learn more

Attractions

Treachery Headland Walking Track

1.82km from park

Pass through coastal rainforest to scenic views of Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse on this lovely walk. Take the sidetrack to Treachery...

Learn more

Attractions

Treachery Beach

2.03km from park

Treachery Beach is one of those secret surfing spots you always hear about but wonder where they are. The headland here sticks out...

Learn more

Attractions

Submarine Beach Walking Track

3.56km from park

When you hanker for the feel of sand between your toes, this short and lovely walk will get you there. It links Yagon campground to...

Learn more

Attractions

Mining Road Fire Trail, Old Gibber Road Rire Trail

4.83km from park

The former Mining Road was constructed as an access road when the area was being mined for heavy mineral sands like rutile and zircon,...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Frothy Coffee Boatshed

5.09km from park

Come and join Frothy Coffee Boatshed, overlooking the vast expanse of Smiths Lake or better still, hire a boat and go for a paddle on the enticing lake....

Learn more

Attractions

Cellito Beach

5.95km from park

Cellito Beach, also known as Sandbar Beach, offers great views towards Seal Rocks as well as challenging surfing. The water is...

Learn more

Food and Drink

The Good Food Store

6km from park

The Good Food Store is a hidden gem located in the coastal town of Smiths Lakes. It offers a range of food to enjoy in store or to take home with you....

Learn more

Tours

GlideTime

6.13km from park

Imagine gliding over the water on the world's best electric hydrofoil board. Silent, wake-free and with zero emissions, you can...

Learn more

Attractions

Hearts Point picnic area

7.54km from park

Hearts Point picnic area is a lovely spot for a break in the northern edge of Myall Lakes National Park, at Neranie, that overlooks scenic Myall Lake....

Learn more

Attractions

Blueys Beach

8.85km from park

Blueys Beach is a famous beach located in the beautiful Pacific Palms precinct with great surfing, swimming and stunning views across to Seal Rocks....

Learn more

Attractions

St James' Church

8.94km from park

St James is a historic church which sits on the hill above Bungwahl and overlooks the beautiful Myall Lakes....

Learn more

Attractions

Trisha's on Blueys

9.45km from park

Trisha Fitzpatrick is a remarkably versatile artist, possessing the ability to tailor her artistic style to accommodate a diverse range of commissions....

Learn more

Tours

Gary Hughes Surface - School of Surf and Surf Consultancy

9.49km from park

Gary Hughes Surface offers learn to surf classes on the stunning beaches along the Barrington Coast. Popular beaches for lessons...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Drift Palms Cafe

9.51km from park

Drift Palms is a popular cafe located in the coastal town of Pacific Palms known to serve the best burgers in town....

Learn more

Food and Drink

Garden to Table Permaculture

9.53km from park

Nestled amongst a Eucalyptus forest on the Mid North Coast, Garden to Table Permaculture is just a three-hour drive north of Sydney...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Kembali Cafe

9.6km from park

A chilled-out café at Blueys Beach with fresh and healthy food infused with flavours from Indonesia. They serve only the freshest...

Learn more

Attractions

Boomerang Beach, Pacific Palms

10.47km from park

Boomerang Beach is the best surfing beach in the Pacific Palms precinct, with rock ledges helping to form great waves. The beach...

Learn more

Mar 21

Events

Sing Out Sister - The Recky

11.04km from park

The number one ladies only, sing and dance along party! Craving a much-needed girls' night out? Or maybe you're ready to experience...

Learn more

Attractions

Lake View Gallery

11.04km from park

Thanks to a collaborative effort with the Pacific Palms Recreation Club, affectionately known as 'The Recky,'...

Learn more

Food and Drink

Pacific Palms Recreation Club

11.04km from park

Pacific Palms Recreation Club offers a stunning location with unsurpassed views of Wallis Lake. Affectionately known as The Recky,...

Learn more

Jan 30 - Apr 26

Events

Pacific Palms Community Market

11.05km from park

Over 80 stalls to find that special thing you didn't know you needed until you saw it! The Pacific Palms Community Centre comes...

Learn more

Attractions

Shelly Beach, Pacific Palms

11.36km from park

Shelly Beach is a secluded beach that is accessed via a short walking trail from the road at Elizabeth Beach in the Pacific Palms...

Learn more

Attractions

Elizabeth Beach, Pacific Palms

11.37km from park

Elizabeth Beach is part of Booti Booti National Park at Pacific Palms. North-facing means this beach is often calm making it a great family beach....

Learn more

Attractions

Elizabeth Beach picnic area

11.46km from park

Framed by a scenic backdrop of the imposing Booti Hill, Elizabeth Beach is a popular spot for families, surfers and day-trippers....

Learn more

Attractions

Southern Boundary Trail

11.52km from park

It doesn’t matter how experienced you are on a mountain bike – Wallingat National Park has something to suit every level....

Learn more

Attractions

Gur-um-bee picnic area

12.28km from park

Gur-um-bee picnic area is an ideal base to explore the coastal forests within Wallingat National park, either on a car tour or by mountain bike....

Learn more

Attractions

Wallingat Forest Drive

12.38km from park

Prepare to see all Wallingat National Park has to offer in one easy drive. The 25 kilometre loop that is Wallingat Forest drive takes...

Learn more

Tours

Walking Rivers Pty Ltd - Myall Lakes

4.22km from park

Walking Rivers offers guided kayaking, abseiling and bushwalking adventures through the natural beauty of New South Wales national parks....

Learn more

Attractions

Booti Hill and Wallis Lake Walking Track

13.54km from park

The Booti Hill and Wallis Lake walking track touches both the ocean and the shores of Lake Wallis. Bring your swimmers and make a...

Learn more

Attractions

Sugar Creek picnic area

14.02km from park

Looking for a place to relax and admire nature? Walk through the forest? Maybe cook up a snag or two? Sugar Creek picnic area is a...

Learn more

Attractions

Cabbage Palm Loop Walking Track

14.02km from park

Cabbage Palm loop walking track begins at Sugar Creek picnic area in Wallingat National Park and follows the first section of Coachwood walk....

Learn more

Attractions

Sugar Creek Trail

14.04km from park

Sugar Creek trail, also known as Hotel Creek track, is a short walk through lush rainforest and dense palm forest....

Learn more

Attractions

Green Cathedral

14.14km from park

The Green Cathedral is a majestic open-air sanctuary and a unique feature of the Barrington Coast. It's a beautiful place with rough...

Learn more

Attractions

Coachwood Loop Walking Track

14.28km from park

This short loop walk in Wallingat National Park begins at Sugar Creek picnic area and wanders gently through striking cabbage palms...

Learn more

Nightlife

Nightlife in Seal Rocks means stargazing, moon bathing and the flicker of a campfire, before being lulled to sleep by the ocean.

But if it’s the weekend and you are looking for something lively – like a bistro meal and a band, try Pacific Palms Recreation Club on Wallis Lake.

Markets

Wondering what else to do at Seal Rocks? Enjoy the community vibe and shop for a bargain at Pacific Palms, Tuncurry and Forster markets.

• Forster Town Park Market is on the 2nd Sunday of each month.
• Forster Farmers Market is on the 3rd Saturday of every month
• Tuncurry Markets is on the 4th Saturday each month.
• Pacific Palms Market is on the last Sunday of each month. Find colourful stalls, fabulous food, plus a jumping castle and pony rides to keep the kids happy.

Seasonal events

Summer

Summer is all about the beach, but Seal Rocks is gorgeous year-round, and the cooler months are ideal for hiking, warming your toes by a campfire and spotting whales from the headlands.

Winter

Join a whale watching tour or an ocean/lake cruise with Reel Ocean Adventures, based in Forster.

• Take a day trip to one of the nearby national parks. Myall Lakes, Booth Booti and Wallingat all offer scenic drives and great hiking.
• Head to Forster. There are lots of cafes and restaurants here, and the kids will have a blast at the Forster Entertainment Centre, with laser, ten-pin bowling and a game zone. For more things to do in Forster, check out this handy guide.