Paddling in Bournda National Park

Bournda National Park sits on the Sapphire Coast of southeastern New South Wales, between Merimbula and Tathra, and its paddling is almost entirely flatwater — calm, coastal, and tidal in character. This is not a whitewater destination.

What the park holds is a sheltered lagoon system that rewards slow, attentive paddling more than distance or technical skill. Bournda Lagoon is the anchor.

The lagoon is divided from the rest of the park's road network by Sandy Beach Creek, which shapes how you access it — the southern and northern sections of the park are effectively separate, and the lagoon carpark is the practical put-in for most visitors.

Canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are all permitted on the lagoon.

NSW National Parks runs guided canoe tours here, two hours on the water with a discovery guide who covers the park's wildlife and landscape; sessions run in the warmer months, with scheduled dates in September, October, and January.

All gear is provided on those tours. Independent paddlers should check whether a permit is required before launching.

The lagoon is described as a little restricted in size, which means it suits exploratory paddling and wildlife watching more than long crossings.

Birdlife is the draw alongside the water itself — the lagoon is recognized as important bird habitat, and you're likely to have company overhead throughout. Park entry fees apply. The self-registration system at the gate takes exact change, so come prepared.

Rules and any paddling-specific conditions are set by NSW National Parks; check with them directly before your trip, as conditions on protected waters can change. Paddling here asks you to slow down.

The Sapphire Coast light, the bush coming to the water's edge, the birds — none of it rewards rushing.