Yacaaba Headland walking track is a 7km, grade 4 hike located in the Myall Lakes National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 3.5 hrs to complete.
Hike overview
If you enjoy a challenging walk and scenic views rolled into one, then grab your hiking boots and make your way to Yacaaba Headland walking track. This lightly challenging walk leads up and across the northern headland of Port Stephens, in the southern reaches of Myall Lakes National Park.
From the southern end of Bennetts Beach, the track climbs steeply and you'll notice smooth barked angophoras giving way to gnarly banksias and grass trees. As the track veers north, take a break and admire the inspiring views up the coastline. On a clear day, the distant blue ridgeline of Barrington Tops is visible.
The track gets rockier and steeper, but along the forested ridge top you'll be treated to coastal views of Seal Rocks and Tomaree Headland. Out to sea, Cabbage Tree Island, known as John Gould Nature Reserve, protects the only known breeding colony of one of the world's rarest birds; the Gould's petrel.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
The rocks on the steeper parts of the track can be very slippery
Toilets and picnic facilities can be found at Jimmys Beach reserve
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Trail location
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Getting there
To Yacaaba Headland carpark. Yacaaba Headland walking track is in the southern precinct of Myall Lakes National Park. To get there:Follow Pacific Highway, north of Newcastle, past Raymond Terrace.Drive for approximately 40km and turn right into Tea Gardens RoadFollow signs for Myall Way/Hawks Nest via Myall and Kingfisher streets Park entry points Yacaaba Headland carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Bennetts Beach or along Beach Road.
Gallery
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Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Myall Lakes National Park, on the north coast not far from Newcastle, features one of the State’s largest coastal lake systems that offers countless opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, boating and fishing. The park also boasts more than 40kms of beaches that offer some good swimming and surfing spots. You can visit for a daytrip to enjoy a barbecue or picnic and some walking, but it’s better to come for the weekend or longer to enjoy all that the park has to offer. There are lots of great campgrounds, some large and some small, including campsites for tents, trailers, caravans, motorhomes, and even boats, so you’re bound to find the perfect site to suit your needs. If camping is not your style, you can book in to the heritage listed accommodation at Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse.
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Gear to consider

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Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return. Fill in an online trip intentions form to privately send important details about your adventure to your emergency contact. They can then inform emergency services if you don’t return on time.
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.