perfect spot to relax at one with nature. NORTH BEACH. On the North Shore is a secluded, open beach accessible via river
beach guide
Photography by Kevin Ho
With 17 beaches in the region you are bound to find one that is just right for you! See over the page for a comprehensive guide on all the beaches. Here are a few of our favourites.
escape it all peace and quiet
OXLEY BEACH A short distance from Port Macquarie’s CBD and part of the coastal walk offering tracks to nearby lookouts. A less crowded beach with picturesque picnic facilities and views, it’s a beach of choice when looking for some extra space and solitude.
NORTH BEACH On the North Shore is a secluded, open beach accessible via river ferry from Port Macquarie’s Settlement Point to the North Shore. The beach can be accessed at Queens Head where there is a car park and picnic area providing an excellent view south along the beach. Popular for 4WD driving and beach fishing
SHELLY BEACH With a natural tidal lagoon, a long stretch of white sandy beach and surrounded by spectacular rainforests, you are guaranteed to find yoursel the perfect spot to relax at one with nature.
WASH HOUSE BEACH South of Pilot Beach in the Camden Haven, this beach offers nature lovers the perfect opportunity to explore and discover rock pools and majestic birdlife such as soaring sea eagles.
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family friendly
surfers pick
LAKE CATHIE Has a patrolled beach during Christmas school holidays and a protected estuary perfect for kids, with inflatable slides and t ampolines available in Summer. With family friendly picnic facilities and playground, takeaway outlets and a bowling club across the road, it is the perfect place to set up for a fun day with the family.
TOWN BEACH Located within walking distance from Port Macquarie CBD, offers the best conditions to surf when the winds are from the south west to south and light to moderate north to north east winds as well. Waves of up to 2.5 metres cater for all abilities and provide a variety of surfing options Car parking, shower and picnic facilities make this a popular beach to surf and relax at.
FLYNNS BEACH One of the iconic beaches of Port Macquarie and ticks all the boxes to please all the family. With a patrolled beach, shaded picnic areas, plenty of space to set up for the day under the big pine trees and a friendly kiosk serving up all your favourites.It’s sure to become one of your favourite beaches too!
LIGHTHOUSE BEACH Known as the summer saviour with protection from the north easterlies, the beach faces south and picks up all available swell so it’s great for the intermediate surfer and above, with short powerful rides. Care must be taken however as it can be dangerous and strong rips and currents occur. Conditions are ideal when there are north west to north east winds with waves under 2 metres. RAINBOW BEACH Situated at Bonny Hills is at its best with an east or south swell of up to 3 metres and winds west to south west. The beach offers a variety of breaks from the typical beach breaks to point breaks. 43
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North Beach (Nth Shore)
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Life Guards
port macquarie
Town Beach
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Secluded, open beach, located on the North Shore. Borders Limburners Creek Nature Reserve. River Ferry from Settlement Point to North Shore. 4WD only access to beach.
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Oxley Beach
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One of Port Macquarie’s most popular beaches, located within walking distance from the centre of town. Popular walking track from the Town Centre along the Breakwall and through to Oxley Beach.
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Rocky Beach
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Named after Surveyor General John Oxley, who founded Port Macquarie. Walking track through to historic Windmill Hill Lookout. A lovely spot for a picnic.
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Flynns Beach
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A small secluded beach, suitable for fishing and walking
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Nobbys Beach
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Port Macquarie’s most popular family beach, features café with timber deck and grassed, shaded picnic area overlooking the beach.
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Lighthouse Beach (Nth Watonga Rocks)
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This beach also has a rainforest backdrop and is Port Macquarie’s unofficial nudist b ach. Walking track through to Lighthouse Road, continues on to the Lighthouse.
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Miners Beach
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Check onsite signage for areas.
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A secluded beach, ideal for long walks, lovers of dogs and 4WD’s. Camel Safaris available. 6km walk to Lake Cathie.
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Lighthouse Beach (Sth Watonga Rocks)
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Visit the Historic Lighthouse which was built in 1879 the final stop along the scenic Coastal Walk, enjoy the viewing platform to get a great aspect. A great vantage point for whale watching.
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Features a natural tidal lagoon, ideal for families with small children. Surrounded by spectacular rainforest that is home to local bush turkeys and goannas. Be sure to take a look at the wonderful public art.
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Shelly Beach
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Very popular with dog owners. Take a walk up the steep climb to the obelisk. Walking track through to Shelly Beach.
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Rainbow Beach (South of Duchess Creek)
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A long sunbleached belt of white sand. 3km walk to Lake Cathie.
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Rainbow Beach (North of Duchess Creek)
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bonny hills
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Located at Lake Cathie, close to the lake entrance. 3km walk to Bonny Hills.
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Lake Cathie Beach
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lake cathie
Bartletts Beach & Reserve
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Patrolled during Summer. Gently flowing Vinegar Creek is a great spot for children.
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Grants Beach (Surf club to Breakwall)
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Headland reserve featuring spectacular views of the coastland towards Port Macquarie. The area is mainly open space with a pathway to Bartletts Beach below. Features an ocean-beach launching ramp.
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Great for beach fishing or a casual st oll.
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Dunbogan Beach (Southern End)
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South of Pilot Beach and located below the historic Pilot Station, fascinating rock pools and soaring sea eagles, nature at its best.
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Wash House Beach
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Naturally protected with gentle surf, a great family beach. Nearby Kattang Nature Reserve has a range of walking tracks.
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Pilots Beach
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dunbogan/camden haven
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Diamond Head
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Great for dolphin spotting, 4WDing and long walks •
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Grants Beach (North of the Surf Club)
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Patrolled beach excellent for surfing 3.5km walking track to Grants Head. Ideal spot for fishing o f the Breakwall.
Admire the blackened pillars of Split Rock with heaps more to explore. In Crowdy Bay National Park this is a popular place to stay with campsites for caravans, camper trailers and by-your car camping. * This beach is only patrolled over the Christmas school holiday.
Lifeguards are only on duty when the red and yellow flags a e in place.
