Just near the coastal villages of Cabarita Beach and Bogangar on the Tweed Coast, Cudgen Lake is a hidden wetland treasure surrounded by floodplain forest and rainforests. Look out over the calm waters and you’ll see majestic Round Mountain in the south and striking views to the west of Wollumbin Mount Warning in the World Heritage-listed Wollumbin National Park.

Great for a family day out, head to Cudgen picnic area and enjoy lunch by the water. The kids will love swimming in the shallow waters of the lake. Launch your canoe or kayak from the boat ramp and head off to explore the nearby creeks. You can also enjoy a day of windsurfing on the lake. Cudgen Lake is occasionally suitable for sailing if there has been a lot of rain for a long time. You can also try your luck fishing, or just sit back and enjoy the tranquility.

The lake and surrounding wetlands is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching. Look out for waterbirds like the Australasian grebe or the white-faced heron.