10 Hidden Boating Destinations You Probably Haven't Heard Of
Australia is a vast country, with a diverse selection of landscapes, coastal and inland waterways, and seasonal temperate areas to suit every adventure seeker.
After a busy 4 days at Melbourne's Boat Show as the 'Official Towing Partner' from 17th October to 20th October 2024, the team at KGM SsangYong thought we would take a look at some boating destinations that you may not have heard of.
Don’t forget if you intend to visit an area to check with the local authorities for up-to-date information on vessel access points via land or sea and if there are any specific restrictions for the type / size of vessel that can be used and the mooring / fishing rules in certain areas. So strap yourself in and push the throttle forward to get up on that plane, we’re going exploring!
1. Maria Island (TAS)
Lets go down south first and over Bass Strait on a voyage to Maria Island in Tasmania. This lesser-frequented island offers picturesque views and a unique perspective on Tasmania’s rugged east coast. Boaters are rewarded with an otherworldly mix of craggy cliffs and calm turquoise bays where dolphins and seals frequently play.
The island has several secluded bays where you can anchor and go ashore to discover ancient ruins and unique Australian wildlife, such as Wombats and Tasmanian Devils. It’s a place of solitude and raw natural beauty.
2. Lake Tyres (VIC)
Heading north back over Bass Strait to Victoria, we’re going to visit Lake Tyers nestled within the Gippsland region and Fringed by forests and sandy banks, it’s an ideal spot for a tranquil day out on the water. The lake has secluded coves where you can enjoy picnics or fishing, with the added attraction of small islands to explore.
As you boat along, the shifting hues of the lake reflect the surrounding greenery, creating a picture-perfect experience. Lake Tyers offers an easy escape to a serene wilderness without the need to travel too far.
3. Lake Eildon (VIC)
Lake Eildon in Victoria, can’t really be called a 'hidden gem' as it is one of Australia’s largest artificial lakes, it’s true it is a gem, just not a hidden one. At its peak Lake Eildon can hold the same amount of water as Sydney harbour.
This expansive lake is surrounded by rolling hills and is famous for hosting some of the most lavish houseboats you’ll find anywhere in Australia. Boaters can navigate secluded coves, find spots to fish, or simply drift in solitude, taking in the sounds of the surrounding bushland. In the autumn, the area’s deciduous trees turn brilliant shades of red and orange, adding a splash of colour to the landscape, which has to be seen, to understand how grand this landmark is.
4. Hawkesbury River (NSW)
Heading further north we find, ourselves at the Hawkesbury River in New South Wales. With a different kind of tranquillity the Hawkesbury snakes its way north of Pentrish inland for approx 120km. While popular sections near Sydney are well-known, further up the river lies the charming village of Spencer, a small, sleepy haven where time seems to stop and stand still. Surrounded by lush greenery and cliff faces, the river narrows, providing a secluded feel.
You can explore winding estuaries, pull up near hidden sandy shores, and watch as eagles soar above, hunting for fish. For an idyllic experience, paddle through the early morning mist, when the river takes on an ethereal quality.
5. Wallis Lake (NSW)
For something truly off the beaten path, explore the Wallis Lake region in New South Wales. This vast lake, with its intricate system of small bays, creeks, and estuaries, is the perfect destination for those who enjoy slow, exploratory boating. With its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere, Wallis Lake offers the feeling of being completely immersed in nature.
You’ll find abundant birdlife, including pelicans and herons, and as you glide through the water, the sun-dappled shorelines are nothing short of enchanting.
6. Lake Tinaroo (QLD)
Further north, inland lies Lake Tinaroo in the Atherton Tablelands in Queensland. Though a popular spot for locals, it remains relatively unknown outside this part of Queensland and the Tropical North. This lake is a boater’s dream, bordered by dense rainforests and dotted with islands to discover.
You’ll find plenty of secluded spots where you can anchor, fish, or simply float as you take in the surrounding beauty. Known for its diverse birdlife and freshwater fishing opportunities, Lake Tinaroo is also a great place to encounter the mystical marsupial that is the platypus, in the wild, particularly if you keep quiet.
7. Cobourg Peninsula (NT)
One of the first places to explore the waterways in the Northern Territory is the Cobourg Peninsula. Tucked within Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, this remote area offers a pristine natural experience for boaters looking to escape the norm and the crowds. This area of peninsula is home to stunning white sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and abundant marine life. Here, you can anchor in serene, isolated waters with only the sounds of nature for company.
The nearby marine park, protected for its rich biodiversity, offers a chance to spot turtles, dugongs, and even the occasional dolphin. Boating in these waters, especially during sunrise or sunset, feels as though you’ve entered a hidden paradise.
8. Coorong (SA)
We’re going to pull a U-turn now and head south to the Coorong. Located in South Australia, the Coorong offers a unique, almost surreal landscape that feels as though it belongs in on a postcard. This 140-kilometre stretch of saltwater lagoons, sand dunes, and coastal vegetation provides a striking setting for a boating adventure. Boating through this area reveals a delicate ecosystem filled with diverse birdlife, including migratory species.
The landscape alternates between stretches of calm lagoons and sections lined with towering sand dunes, creating an ever-changing vista. The Coorong’s mysterious and untamed beauty is best appreciated from the water, where the stillness enhances its surreal atmosphere.
9. Dampier Archipelago (WA)
Heading north, way up on the far west coast lies Dampier Archipelago in Western Australia. A chain of islands near Karratha that remains relatively unknown, it’s also a long way from anywhere and quite a remote location. These islands have some of the Australia’s clearest waters, making them perfect for snorkelling, fishing, or simply cruising around.
Each island has its own unique appeal, from secluded beaches to rock formations etched with ancient Indigenous petroglyphs. The Dampier Archipelago is ideal for a day’s exploration or a peaceful anchoring spot under the vast West Australian skies.
10. Recherche Archipelago (WA)
Strap yourself in as we head west to Western Australia’s Recherche Archipelago, also known as the Bay of Isles on the southern tip of WA. A collection of nearly 100 islands off the coast of Esperance. These islands are stunningly beautiful, with turquoise waters, granite outcrops, and powdery white beaches.
Boating here feels like a true expedition; many islands are uninhabited, with only seabirds and seals as your company. Dolphins often swim beside boats, and if you're lucky, you may spot a passing whale. Sheltered bays offer perfect spots to drop anchor and soak up the untouched beauty. The serenity and remoteness make it a hidden jewel for adventurous boaters.
These lesser-known destinations reveal Australia’s incredible diversity, offering both inland tranquillity and oceanic adventures far from the usual tourist spots.
Each location promises a distinct experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and seclusion of Australia’s waterways, where each bend or bay offers a quiet, personal connection to nature.
Whether you’re paddling through mist-covered rivers, anchoring near secluded beaches, or drifting on calm lakes, these destinations are sanctuaries for those looking to explore beyond the well-travelled paths.
