Lakes of Pacific Palms: Smiths Lake, Wallis Lake and Myall Lake

Angelique Thomas
Dec 20, 2025
2 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Beyond the beaches, the lakes of Pacific Palms offer calm water, quiet swimming spots and an entirely different way to experience the region. Surrounded by bushland and National Parks, Smiths Lake, Wallis Lake and Myall Lake are perfect for swimming, paddling, picnics and slowing the pace of your stay.

Wallis Lake and The Lakes Way Lakes of Pacific Palms

The Lakes of Pacific Palms

The lakes are an important part of life in Pacific Palms and are especially loved by locals and guests alike on windy days or when ocean conditions are less suitable. With warm, sheltered water and peaceful surrounds, they provide a relaxed alternative to the surf and are perfect for families and gentle water activities.

Smiths Lake

Smiths Lake is known for its clear water and calm conditions, making it one of the most popular lake swimming spots in the area. With easy access and gentle shallows, it’s well suited to long, relaxed days by the water.

Best for:

Swimming
Stand up paddle boarding
Kayaking
Families with young children
Sailing

Good to know:

Water clarity here is often exceptional, and the lake is a favourite for unhurried swims and paddle sessions.

Wallis Lake

Stretching along the edge of Pacific Palms, Wallis Lake is famous for its changing colours, oyster farms and expansive views. The Sailing Club area is a popular spot for sheltered swimming, picnics and watching the sun set over the water.

Best for:

Calm swimming
Paddle boarding
Sunset picnics
Easy access lake swims
Fishing

Good to know:

This is one of the most sheltered spots in the region and a reliable option when the wind picks up along the coast.

Myall Lake

Part of Myall Lakes National Park, Myall Lake feels peaceful and remote, surrounded by forest and open sky. The Neranie Campground area is a favourite for swimming, picnics and quiet family days by the water.

Best for:

Swimming
Kayaking
Picnics
Nature lovers

Good to know:

Shaded picnic areas and calm water make this an ideal place to spend a slow afternoon immersed in nature.

Things to Do on the Lakes

Across all three lakes, there are plenty of simple ways to enjoy the water and surrounding landscape at a slower pace.

Swimming in calm, sheltered conditions
Stand up paddle boarding and kayaking
Lakeside picnics under shady trees
Birdwatching and quiet nature moments
Sunset watching as the light changes across the water

Fishing is also popular across the lakes. If you’re planning to fish, be mindful of local regulations, including fishing licences, size limits and bag limits, to help protect these beautiful waterways for future visitors.

The lakes are an ideal alternative when ocean conditions are rough or winds are strong along the coast.