
With secluded beaches and a laidback pace, Seal Rocks has all the ingredients for an under-the-radar coastal escape: untamed scenery, incredibly blue waters, local attractions, and hardly any crowds. This charming and vastly underrated seaside village doesn’t have a whole lot to offer in terms of creature comforts but it’s well worth a visit — if only to enjoy the simple pleasures. In recent years it’s gained some popularity on social media, but still feels like one of NSW’s best-kept secrets. Read on for some of the best things to see, do, and explore in this beautiful and remote hidden gem.
Seal Rocks, NSW

The coastal drive to Seal Rocks through Myall Lakes National Park is just as picturesque as the village itself — winding past sparkling lakes, quaint villages, and plenty of stunning lookouts. You won’t find any jet-setting party crowds at this tucked-away spot. In fact, you’ll have to carry your own food and drinks because there are no shops and restaurants here, aside from one small local store. It’s also close enough for a weekend getaway from Sydney making it a relaxing alternative to busier spots like Yamba and Byron Bay. Here are some of the top things to do in this charming, off-the-beaten-path destination.
1. Walk to the Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

One of only two towers in Australia with an external stairway, the historic Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse is undoubtedly the standout attraction in Seal Rocks. The village even got its name from the Australian fur seals that used to be a common sight on the rocks near the lighthouse. Completed in 1875, the tower is perched on Sugarloaf Point and offers stunning lookouts and opportunities for whale watching. The hike to the lighthouse is steep but rewarding with gorgeous ocean views and the blissful sounds of waves crashing against the rocks as you climb up. Excitingly, you can stay in the Lighthouse Keepers Cottages, although you’ll need to get lucky because it tends to sell out weeks in advance, especially on weekends. If you’re walking to the lighthouse, stay for the sunset — you won’t be disappointed.
2. Discover the wild and picturesque beaches

The wonderfully wild and remote beaches of Seal Rocks offer something for everyone and they all look like they’re straight out of a postcard. Visitors can choose from four lovely beaches without having to worry about crowds. Go to Lighthouse Beach for excellent diving, snorkelling, surfing, and fishing in a remote setting, or make a beeline for Number One Beach, a long sweeping stretch of shoreline perfect for kids and families. Despite its name, the sweeping Treachery Beach is a lovely hidden gem and a repeat destination for surfers, but be cautious, the rips can be quite strong. Boat Beach is another flat, tranquil spot perfect for for families.
3. Camp by the water

Seal Rocks offers plenty of ways to relax and unplug and you can even camp close to the water for a true taste of the area’s natural beauty. Accommodation options include dog-friendly camping, caravan parks, and cabins. Treachery Camp offers an intimate and quiet coastal retreat on the beach complete with hot showers, toilets, and a camp kitchen. Just minutes from the beach, Yagon Campground is a stellar option for surfers and swimmers with picnic tables and barbecue facilities to boot. Reflections Holiday Park is another great option, just minutes from some of Seal Rocks’ best local offerings.
4. Explore the nearby national parks

Seal Rocks is enveloped by the lush greenery of Myall Lakes National Park, home to beaches, rolling sand dunes, pristine bushland, and Myall Lakes — one of NSW’s largest coastal lake systems. Opportunities for outdoor adventure are endless with many walking trails, kayaking, and splendid stargazing with perfect, clear skies. It’s one of the most popular national parks in the state and a must-visit if you’re in Seal Rocks. And don’t overlook the underrated Wallingat National Park, a hidden gem offering a diverse blend of forest and swamp landscapes where visitors can hike, camp, and birdwatch. The forest is surrounded by towering cabbage palms and blue gums with native animals, perfect for a stroll.
5. Grab a bite at the famous Single Fin Coffee Van
Tucked away in the heart of Seal Rocks, nestled somewhere deep inside Myall Lakes National Park is the charming Single Fin Coffee Van where you can take a break from all the exploring and enjoy some coffee, chai, cakes, gelato, and other baked goods surrounded by unspoiled coastal scenery. You can find this cute little spot at Boat Beach but if you want a proper meal you’ll need to drive around 20 minutes to Blueys Beach in the Pacific Palms region or 40 minutes to Forster for more restaurants and cafes. Although it doesn’t have any supermarkets or restaurants, Seal Rocks does have a general store where you can get basic groceries like bread, milk, frozen foods, and more.
6. Enjoy four-wheel driving on the beach
4W driving is a popular activity at Seal Rocks and the best place to do this is the 2km golden stretch of Lighthouse Beach. Flanked by sweeping views of the lighthouse on one hand and the headland on the other, the beach offers plenty of space even during peak seasons. It can be accessed via a short walk to Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse or at the carpark along Treachery Road. If you’re planning to drive on the beach, remember that you’ll need to apply for a NSW National Parks Permit.
Read more about Seal Rocks and find accommodation options in the area here.
How to get there and the best time to visit
Perched along the Barrington Coast, Seal Rocks is just over a 3-hour drive from Sydney. Public transport is not easily available in these parts so driving is recommended. Visit in spring for colourful wildflowers, in autumn for pleasant temps perfect for exploring, and in summer for outdoor activities.