[2] The conservation area includes tidal marshlands and mangroves along part of the lakes edge.

[3] Situated near the suburb of Coombabah, 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) from the coast and 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) northwest of Southport, the lake borders the Ivan Gibbs Wetland Reserve, is classified as a Fish Habitat Area within the Moreton Bay Marine Park and serves as an important wildlife corridor between the Nerang State Forest and the coast.

[3] The lake is fed by Coombabah Creek which rises to the west in the Nerang Forest Reserve.

The Ivan Gibbs Wetlands Reserve and Lakeside Country Club golf course are both located to the south of the lake.

It has many endangered species of animals including grey-headed flying fox, koalas, powerful owl and various internationally protected migratory birds.