10 Amazing Boating Locations In Australia

Australia’s an island paradise with 25,000-plus kilometres of coastline, some 11,000 lakes and almost 450 rivers.

AKA: ‘boat-owners’ heaven!’

Whether you dream of skipping the sea or exploring inland, there is a perfect boating destination for everyone.

Here are ten of the best.

1. Lake Macquarie, New South Wales

Ninety minutes from Sydney and a mere 30 from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie’s a must-go for boaties.

As one of Australia’s largest saltwater lakes, it’s roomy enough for everyone, and jetties and ramps make it super accessible.

Here you’ll find islands and inlets to explore, rugged bushland to traverse, and all manner of water sports, from kayaking to water-skiing.

Fishing is popular, too, especially in the channels’ deeper waters – so long as you’re experienced enough to navigate the tide.

Use the Summerland Point ramp for parking, shops and sheltered lagoon entry.

2. Hope Islands National Park, Queensland

Encompassing the gorgeous East and West Hope, Struck, and Snapper Islands, this hidden gem, a half-hour from Cooktown in the far North, is a must-visit.

Ideal for those seeking a calm, scenic trip (motorised water sports are banned) this destination boasts excellent fishing – just be mindful of the zoning, as it is on the Great Barrier Reef.

The snorkelling and diving opportunities here are wonderful, and you won’t tire of what the clear, sheltered waters offer.

Onshore, you can camp, birdwatch (many large raptor species nest here), or tackle the walking trails.

3. Esperance, Western Australia

Esperance is adored by anglers, and it’s no wonder!

Salmon, herring and even gummy sharks are popular – just be sure to check size guides and catch limits.

The diving – especially in the crystal waters of the Recherche Archipelago – is world-class.

Don’t miss Sanko Harvest, Australia’s biggest shipwreck dive!

Boating around the islands, you’ll encounter fur seals, sea lions, cape barren geese, dolphins and more, while onshore, the white sands are often dotted with kangaroos.

Launch from Bandy Creek and the Esplanade, or Lucky Bay Beach, Orleans Bay and Stokes Inlet for smaller trailer boats.

4. St Helens, Tasmania

Few places are as unspoilt as Tassie, which belongs on every boatie’s bucket list.

Head here (4 hours north of Hobart) to gamefish at Georges Bay where salmon, tuna and kingfish abound.

Aside from the on-water fun, there’s adventure within an hour in all directions from St Helens – the rainforest of Pyengana, surfing at Four Mile Creek and 4-wheel driving at Peron Dunes.

It’s also a gateway to the famous Bay of Fires, which boasts unbelievably crystal-clear waters, sparkling white sand, and fiery orange rock formations.

5. Corroboree Billabong, Northern Territory

An easy 80k drive south from Darwin, Corroboree Billabong is a giant, freshwater playground widely considered to be one of the nation’s best for boating.

Sprawling and vibrant, this section of the Mary River Wetlands is home to an incredible 280 species of birds, many ancient saltwater crocodiles, and plenty of barramundis.

The latter attracts fishermen the world over, but photographers also flock here owing to the postcard-perfect surroundings, rich indigenous history (it is the heart of the dreamtime), and vibrant waterlilies.

6. Moreton Bay Marine Park, Queensland

Few picturesque escapes are as accessible as Morton Bay Marine Park, a 3400 square kilometre stretch from Caloundra to the Gold Coast – right on Brisbane’s doorstep.

Encompassing and protecting a collection of coral reefs, wetlands, seagrass meadows, beaches and mangroves, the area is home to dolphins, dugongs and sharks.

The snorkelling is spectacular here. Divers; don’t miss Cherubs Cave, a choose-your-own-adventure style experience with lots to explore.

Fishermen must note that the Bay is home to 13 ‘no take’ green zones, which are displayed on zoning maps at each boat ramp.

7. Marion Bay, South Australia

Three hours from Adelaide on the Yorke Peninsula, the idyllic Marion Bay is a popular spot and it’s easy to see why.

If you’re out for cruising, there are plenty of islands to visit.

Wedge Island is top of the list for being a safe place to anchor and offering plenty of diving opportunities.

For anglers, the fishing is almost unmatched in diversity anywhere else in South Australia.

While the boat ramp in this quaint town demands a 4WD and the right conditions, you’re sure to be richly rewarded once you get out on the water.

8. Lake Argyle, Western Australia

Billed as ‘the jewel of the Kimberly’, Lake Argyle is Western Australia’s largest freshwater lake, and as yet remains under-utilised by boaties.

Launch from the boat ramp to enjoy 1000 square kilometres of placid water, ideal for stand-up paddle-boarding, water-skiing and sailing.

Fishing – especially for barramundi – is popular here, while off-water activities, like mountain biking and bushwalking, make for a well-rounded trip.

As this area is close to the Northern Territory, crocs may be present, but, in general, Lake Argyle is considered a remote and serene oasis.

9. Sugarloaf Reservoir, Victoria

Nestled among the scenic Christmas Hills, less than an hour out of Melbourne, Sugarloaf Reserve is a serene sailing experience for smaller vessels.

Launch from the Boating Club (call ahead to book) and enjoy the tranquillity of this hidden treasure in the Yarra.

Once you’ve spent a morning on the water, hit dry land to enjoy the surrounding park.

Tackle the 15-kilometre walk around the reservoir or fish from the shore.

There are plenty of facilities to make for a full, fun, family day out.

10. Quarantine Bay, New South Wales

While no one wants to hear the ‘Q’ word for a while, this is actually one spot you wouldn’t mind being stuck in.

Located near Eden on the Sapphire Coast – and if those words don’t conjure beauty, nothing does – Quarantine Bay is accessed by a well-kept, 4-lane boat ramp.

The fishing is excellent, offering flathead, bream and whiting, and the water is calm and inviting.

Initially settled by whalers, Eden itself is a fascinating holiday spot, boasting equal parts history and natural beauty.

You might even spot whales and dolphins frolicking in Two-fold Bay!

No matter what your vessel, somewhere in Australia will float your boat – so gear up and set sail!

Don’t have your own boat to take to these amazing destinations? Boat ownership might be more affordable than you think. Get a quote for boat finance with Credit One to find out how much your repayments would be.