After visiting Norah Head Lighthouse and Budgewoi Beach, our third stop was Munmorah State Conservation Area, recommended by the owner of our Lake Haven accommodation. We chose to explore Frazer Beach and Snapper Point, though the area offers more to see, time allowed us to visit only these two. An $8 entry fee applies to visit this national park, but it’s a worthwhile contribution that helps support its upkeep and preservation.
Snapper point starts off on a sealed road then turns to a dirt road for a section, then it goes back to a sealed road, the dirt road had no potholes when we visited. There is no toilet at Snapper Point and there isn’t a lot of room to park in the car park, so you might have to park on the side of the road and walk down. There is an emergency phone in the car park that calls the surf rescue team if someone gets into trouble. Be careful of the unstable cliff edges as you will fall into the ocean. The walk is easy and short and has amazing views. We saw people rock fishing from the rocks, it’s the law in New South Wales to wear a life jacket if you are rock fishing because it’s easy for a big wave to come out of nowhere and knock you off the rocks or slip and trip over, there were also two life guard rings that can be thrown out to someone if they get knocked off the rocks. The day we visited 5th October 2024 which was school holidays for New South Wales, Australia, there wan’t many people there, so we had the whole place to ourselves which is perfect for taking photos and videos where you don’t want people in your photos that you are going to post on your travel blog. I thought it would of been busier becuase of school holidays but I think because the beach wasn’t patrolled not as many people visited.
Snapper Point, New South Wales, Australia
Nestled within the breathtaking Munmorah State Conservation Area, Snapper Point is a striking destination that showcases the natural beauty of New South Wales’ Central Coast. Known for its rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and opportunities for outdoor adventure, Snapper Point is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and explorers alike.
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Snapper Point Road Lookout
This is the first lookout that you will see when driving down Snapper Point Road, its at the entrance to Moonee Beach Trail, there is only a carpark with amazing views of the coast.
The photos below are the viewa from the carpark, the day we visited it was windy and hot, the best part about this lookout is that you can stay in your car and still enjoy the view.
Scenic Coastal Vistas
Snapper Point offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, where the dramatic coastline meets the azure waves. The area is perfect for photography, with its rugged rock formations, expansive skies, and mesmerizing seascapes providing endless inspiration. Sunrise and sunset at Snapper Point are particularly magical, with golden hues casting a glow over the cliffs and water.
A Haven for Fishing Enthusiasts
One of Snapper Point’s most popular activities is rock fishing. Anglers are drawn to the area for its abundance of fish species and serene setting. While fishing here can be rewarding, it’s essential to prioritize safety, as the waters around the rocks can be unpredictable. Always check local guidelines and conditions before heading out.
The photos below are of the track to the rocky platform.
These are the amzing views that you are get to enjoy .
Exploring the Rock Platforms
For those who enjoy coastal exploration, the rock platforms at Snapper Point are a delight to discover. Tidal pools teeming with marine life offer a closer look at the area’s biodiversity. Spot crabs, anemones, and tiny fish as you navigate the rugged terrain. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and stay aware of the tides to ensure a safe adventure.
Bushwalks and Wildlife
Snapper Point is surrounded by walking trails that traverse the diverse landscapes of Munmorah State Conservation Area. These trails provide glimpses of native flora and fauna, from colorful wildflowers to bird species that call the area home. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh coastal air.
Safety and Accessibility
While Snapper Point’s beauty is undeniable, the rocky terrain and unpredictable tides require visitors to exercise caution. Always stay on marked paths, avoid venturing too close to the cliff edges, and check weather conditions before your visit. The area is easily accessible via the Munmorah State Conservation Area, with parking available nearby.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re seeking a tranquil spot to reflect, an adventurous day of fishing, or a scenic location for photography, Snapper Point has something for everyone. Pair your visit with a trip to nearby Frazer Beach or other gems within Munmorah State Conservation Area to make the most of your day.
Snapper Point isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience of nature’s raw beauty and serenity, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories of New South Wales’ stunning coastline.
Nearest Attractions to Snapper Point, New South Wales
Snapper Point’s location within the Munmorah State Conservation Area places it near several other natural and recreational attractions that complement your visit. Here are some nearby highlights:
1. Frazer Beach
- Distance: ~5 minutes’ drive
- Features: A picturesque, sheltered beach perfect for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the coastal scenery. Known for its tranquility and charm, Frazer Beach is also a great spot for spotting marine life.
2. Birdie Beach
- Distance: ~10 minutes’ drive
- Features: A long stretch of sandy shoreline backed by dunes, ideal for beachcombing and relaxing walks. Popular for fishing and sunbathing.
3. Catherine Hill Bay
- Distance: ~15 minutes’ drive
- Features: A historic coastal village with a heritage-listed jetty, pristine beach, and excellent surfing conditions. A perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
4. The Palms Picnic Area
- Distance: ~5 minutes’ drive
- Features: A tranquil spot within Munmorah State Conservation Area, surrounded by cabbage tree palms. Ideal for family picnics and short walks.
5. Moonee Beach
- Distance: ~10 minutes’ drive
- Features: A secluded beach offering serene views and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and snorkeling in calm waters.
6. Wybung Head
- Distance: ~7 minutes’ drive
- Features: A dramatic headland with incredible ocean views and walking tracks. A great spot for whale watching during the migration season.
7. Lake Macquarie
- Distance: ~20 minutes’ drive
- Features: Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, offering activities like boating, kayaking, fishing, and lakeside picnics.
8. Wyrrabalong National Park
- Distance: ~25 minutes’ drive
- Features: A beautiful national park with coastal forests, walking trails, and breathtaking views from lookouts. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
9. Norah Head Lighthouse
- Distance: ~25 minutes’ drive
- Features: A historic lighthouse offering guided tours and panoramic views of the coastline. Perfect for photography and learning about maritime history.
These nearby attractions provide a variety of experiences, from relaxing beach outings to active exploration and historical visits, making Snapper Point an ideal starting point for your adventures.
Nearest Towns to Snapper Point, New South Wales
Snapper Point is nestled within the Munmorah State Conservation Area, offering convenient access to charming towns nearby. Here are some of the closest towns:
1. Lake Munmorah
- Distance: ~10 minutes’ drive
- Features: A peaceful residential town with access to local shops, cafes, and basic amenities. It serves as a gateway to the conservation area.
2. Catherine Hill Bay
- Distance: ~15 minutes’ drive
- Features: A historic mining village with a stunning beach, heritage-listed jetty, and a small, welcoming community vibe.
3. Budgewoi
- Distance: ~20 minutes’ drive
- Features: A coastal town offering beautiful beaches, picnic areas, fishing spots, and family-friendly activities.
4. Swansea
- Distance: ~25 minutes’ drive
- Features: A larger town on the edge of Lake Macquarie, offering various dining options, shopping, and water-based recreational activities.
5. Toukley
- Distance: ~25 minutes’ drive
- Features: Known for its proximity to beaches and lakes, this vibrant town has markets, cafes, and great spots for fishing and kayaking.
6. Belmont
- Distance: ~35 minutes’ drive
- Features: Located along Lake Macquarie, this town offers a marina, shopping centers, and a range of watersports activities.
7. Wyong
- Distance: ~30 minutes’ drive
- Features: A central hub on the Central Coast with historical landmarks, boutique shops, and a local farmers’ market.
8. The Entrance
- Distance: ~35 minutes’ drive
- Features: A lively town with waterfront dining, a pelican feeding show, and a laid-back coastal vibe, perfect for family outings.
These towns provide a mix of quiet retreats and bustling centers, ensuring visitors to Snapper Point have a variety of nearby options for dining, shopping, and exploring.
Tours and Activities:
- #1 Rated Blue Mountains Tour, Scenic World, Lunch, RiverCruise
- Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney Including Scenic World
- Sydney Harbour Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Blue Mountains: Three Sisters, Scenic World and Wildlife park
- BridgeClimb Sydney
- Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
- Big Bus Sydney and Bondi Hop-on Hop-off Tour
- Sydney Harbour Scenic Helicopter Flight
- Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise Morning or Afternoon Departure
- Blue Mountains Small-Group Tour from Sydney with Scenic World,Sydney Zoo & Ferry
- Sydney Harbour Ferry with Taronga Zoo Entry Ticket
- Skyfeast Dining Experience at the Sydney Tower
- 20-Minute Helicopter Flight Over Sydney and Beaches
- Blue Mountains ALL INCLUSIVE day tour with Free Koala Photo
- Morning or Afternoon Half-Day Sydney City Sightseeing Tour
- Private Tour: Sydney City Highlights & Hidden Gems
- Blue Mountains Day Tour Including Parramatta River Cruise
- Sydney Harbour Discovery Cruise Including Lunch
- Small-Group Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour from Sydney
- Cruise Sydney Harbour in style including all-inclusive Dinner
- Hunter Valley Small Group Wine, Gin and Cheese Tour from Sydney
- Hunter Valley Wine Tour from Sydney incl Lunch, Cheese, Chocolate and Distillery
- Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains & Scenic World Tour-ALL INCLUSIVE
- Sydney Cocktail Harbour Bar Cruise with Charcuterie Board
- Wild Wombat and Kangaroo Day Tour from Sydney
- 30-Minute Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Ride on Thunder Twist
- Sydney Opera House Tour & Meal + Drink at Opera Bar or House Canteen
- Blue Mountains Private Tour including Wildlife Park
- Sydney Bike Tours
Places To Get Food
- Matts’ Diner Takeaway (Lake Munmorah)
- Food Star Takeaway
- Subway
- Nargis Gourmet Food
- 3 In 1 Asian Restaurant
- Murrays Restaurant and Cafe
- La Notte Uno Lake Munmorah
- Budgewoi Charcoal Chicken
- Ocean Thai
- Budgewoi Thai
- Yummy Kebab & Indian Budgewoi
- Budgewoi Hotel
- Pizza Pit Budgewoi
- Munchies at Budgewoi
- The Swordfish Co Budgewoi
- Lago Cucina
- Domino’s Pizza Budgewoi
- La Bocca Woodfire Pizzeria and Restaurant
- Burger Central
Accommodation
- Reflections Moonee Beach – Holiday Park
- Big House Little House Moonee Beach
- Tallia Glen
- Sunset Escape
- Lake House great for Family
- Lake Munmorah Motel
- Getaway Lakefront Environmental House on Lake Macquarie with Water View
- Royal Retreat Peaceful Lakefront
- The Little Blue Lakehouse
- The downstairs delight 2brm , 6+ guests & dogs ok
- Riva House
- Surfers Paradise
- Playa Azul-Beach house on Catherine Hill Bay and Moonee beach
- Aquila Beach Retreat
- 5 Star Waterfront Oasis Villa – Bali Inspired
- The Waterfront
- VIVID – House w heated pool, ev station, fireplace
- Moonee Retreat – 200m to beach and ocean reserve views
- ‘Bridgehampton’ A Luxury Beach House Dream
- The Sanctuary at Catherine Hill Bay
- Mysig by the Bay
- Beach Holiday House
- Catho Cottage
- The Place
- By the Beach at Catho
- The Lake Escape
- Lake Sabai – Waterfront and private pool
- Angels Little Haven
- Lake Macquarie Escape
- Adrift
- Enjoy Lazy Daze
- The Lakehouse Retreat
- Mannering Lake House
- Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie
- Waterside Cottage
- Kullaroo Lakehouse
- The Lakehouse
- Niaroo Lakeside
- Relaxing Getaway
- Karinyah
- The Hamptons Lakehouse
- Sunset Central Coast
- The Nautilus at Lake Macquarie
- Paradise Palms
- Bluewater at Mannering Park
- Stay At Raffertys Resort
- Plover Executive Deluxe Villa 25
- Blue Lago at Raffertys Resort
- The Lake Palace
- Oystercatcher at Raffertys Resort- family villa
- Pelican Escape Executive Home
- Fairy Wren Cottage in Raffertys Resort
- Wattlebird Treetop Townhouse
- Lake Breeze – private pool
- Le Domicile on Point
- Lakefront Paradise Retreat
- Kabine Waterfront Lakehouse in Sunshine
- Murrays Lakeshore Getaway
- The Boat House Absolute Waterfront and Jetty
- Breath taking Bay Views Private Pad Spacious
- Sunshine Shores
- New Property Seabreeze Bungalow – Lakeview Sunset Delight at Sunshine on Lake Macquarie
- Luxurious Lakeside Oasis
- Lakeside Hideaway
- The Lake House – Lakefront Oasis At Murrays Beach!
- NEW PropertyBreezy Bayside Haven at Brightwaters
Essential Packing List: Key Items for Your Next Adventure
Click on this link to see my packing list
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Snapper Point?
Snapper Point is a hidden lookout and beach on the edge of Frazer Park in the Munmorah State Conservation Area. From the Snapper Point car park, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the sea cave.
Is Snapper rocks a point break?
Snapper Rocks, locally known as ‘Snapper,’ is a point break that forms the beginning of the man-made Superbank, stretching from Snapper Rocks Point to Kirra over a distance of about two kilometers.
Are Snapper Rocks good for fishing?
Snapper Rocks, located near Kirra Reef just offshore, offers great fishing opportunities with a good strike rate. You can fish directly from Snapper Rocks for pelagic species (though be cautious of large swells) or cast your line from the beaches on either side of the point.
Why is Snapper Rocks special?
Since the 1990s, the quality of the surf has greatly improved, earning its reputation as one of the longest, hollowest, and best waves in the world.
What is the best direction to swell Snapper Rocks?
Snapper Rocks on the Gold Coast is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. The surf is generally consistent (6/10) but can get extremely crowded (10/10). The optimal winds are from the southwest, while the best swell directions come from the east, northeast, south, and southeast.
Are dogs allowed at Snapper Rocks?
Dogs are welcome on the beach but must remain on a leash. Snapper Rocks is renowned for its consistent waves, attracting surfers from all around. There is a free parking lot available at Snapper Rocks.
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