Parnka Point

Parnka Point is a narrow natural spit in Coorong National Park, South Australia, separating the North and South Lagoons of the Coorong. Located within the Coorong District Council area, it is one of the narrowest sections of the lagoon system, where the two water bodies are divided by only a few hundred metres of dunes. Notable for its birdwatching, scenic lagoon views and 4WD access, it lies within a Ramsar-listed wetland of ecological importance.

Visitors can expect a remote, low-lying isthmus of sand and dunes between two shallow lagoons within Coorong National Park. The site offers open panoramic views across both lagoons, extensive mudflats and samphire flats, and is a key birdwatching location with a bird hide and information signs. Access is via unsealed tracks, with a small parking area. There are no shops or developed visitor centre at the point itself; the experience is focused on nature observation, photography and quiet sightseeing in a windswept wetland landscape.

Parnka Point lies within Coorong National Park, part of a coastal lagoon system formed over the last 6,000 years behind the Younghusband Peninsula dunes. The Coorong has long been part of Ngarrindjeri Country and was later used by early European explorers and pastoralists. The area was proclaimed as a national park in 1966 and listed as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 1985 for its ecological values.

The Coorong, including Parnka Point, is part of the traditional lands of the Ngarrindjeri people, who have a long cultural connection to the lagoons, waterways and wildlife. The wetland is valued for its cultural landscape, traditional knowledge and ongoing connection to Country, and is interpreted through park signage for visitors.