Things to do in Seal Rocks

The ultimate list of things to do in Seal Rocks

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.

Embrace the magic: Get back to nature

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.

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.

Blissed out beach days at Seal Rocks: Things to do with the family

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.

Where to drink, dine and shop

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!

Nightlife

Nightlife in Seal Rocks means star gazing, moon bathing and the flicker of a camp fire, 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. You can check what’s on here therecky.com.au

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.

Seal Rocks: Activities for every season

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[GU1] and spotting whales from the headlands.

More things to do in Seal Rocks in the 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’s lots of cafes and restaurants here, and the kids will have a blast at the Forster Entertainment Centre, with laser, ten pin bowling and game zone. For more things to do in Forster check out this handy guide.

Seal Rocks, an idyllic weekend escape

With its blend of pristine nature and relaxed coastal vibe, this beautiful corner of the world calls to anyone who wants to get away from it all.

In case you are wondering how far is Seal Rocks from Sydney? It’s only three and a half hours drive – which makes it close enough for a weekend getaway. But with so many things to see and do in Seal Rocks, you may want to come for longer!

So, why not make the most of an enticing range of accommodation and tantalising views, and book your stay at Seal Rocks Reflections Holiday Park now. You can also call or email our friendly team to find out more.