This coastal loop is good to combine with the Wilsons Headland Walk for a day out, together with a swim and a visit to the delightful Minnie Water General Store for coffee or an ice cream.
Like most coastal walks, best at low tide. Starting at the store, head north toward Illaroo campground through some melaleuca wetlands, and admire the large angophora trees. Return from the campground on the Rocky Point track, past a small walk-in campsite. We chose to head down to the beach, and rounded the rocky headland to Minnie Water Beach, but an alternate path avoids the shore if the tide is high or the swells are big.
There is marine life in the pools on Rocky Point, and you might see ospreys, or brahminy kites in the skies above, or whales blowing in the cooler months. The tannin stained water seeps through the dunes to emerge on the beach, making interesting dark patterns.
Minnie Water beach is patrolled during peak periods. Dogs are allowed on the beach on-leash, but not in the national park. Those with a 4WD can access the beach from Illaroo and drive north towards Sandon village up the beach at low tide, returning the same way (NPWS permit required). This walk is part of the 65 km 4-day Yuraygir Coastal Walk.
