Nestled on the mouth of the Wallagaraugh River and the picturesque Mallacoota Inlet, Mallacoota is a charming coastal escape with family-friendly beaches, excellent snorkelling and enthralling waterways. The township features a collection of waterfront bistros and cafes, while the nearby Croajingolong National Park yields stunning natural splendour.
Things to do in Mallacoota
A Mallacoota holiday isn’t complete without some well-earned beach time, especially at the popular Betka Beach, which provides safe swimming areas with lifeguards. Snorkelers will prefer the underwater treasures around the rocks at Quarry Beach, while couples can find tranquil solitude on Secret Beach. Rent a surfboard or join a surfing class at Surf Shack or hire kayaks and pedal boats from Mallacoota Hire Boats.
Do you love getting lost in nature? Drive about two hours to Croajingolong National Park, where you can explore pristine white-sand beaches, towering granite peaks and immersive hiking trails. For something closer to town, drive 20 minutes to Gipsy Point, where you can see large groups of kangaroos.
Indulge in Mallacoota’s thriving cafe and bakery culture, starting at the iconic Mallacoota Bakery, where you can find fresh pies, pastries and sweet treats. It’s next to Croajingolong Cafe, popular for its alfresco seating and freshly-roasted coffee. Walk off the food with a stroll through Mallacoota Coastal Reserve, a tranquil expanse of walking trails, saltwater mangroves and coastal views.
Avid golfers can enjoy a day out on the links at Mallacoota Golf and Country Club, which boasts a scenic oceanfront course ideal for both beginners and experienced golfers. Afterwards, don’t miss Bastion Point, which is perfect for snapping panoramic photos of Gabo Island and the Tasman Sea.
Getting around Mallacoota
You can drive to Mallacoota in just over four hours from Cairns and six hours from Melbourne. The town centre is easily explored on foot or bicycle, but you’ll need a car to explore further afield.