Discover Port Macquarie's Pristine Beaches
Port Macquarie is renowned for its 17 stunning beaches, offering powdery white sands and clear waters along the Pacific Coast. These beaches are perfect for a variety of activities, including surfing, swimming, paddleboarding, sunbathing, and fishing. Many of these beaches are conveniently located along the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, making it easy to explore multiple beaches in a single day.
Most beaches are lifeguard-patrolled during peak seasons and offer amenities like picnic areas and restrooms. Ready for a beach day? Grab your sunblock and towel, and check out the best beaches in Port Macquarie.
1. Town Beach
At the heart of Port Macquarie, Town Beach is a beautiful and convenient spot with soft sand and nearby grassy areas. It's a popular location for surfing due to its exposed point break and is close to town amenities, including shops, cafés, and a skate park.
2. Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach is a long, picturesque beach ideal for walks and surfing. It's protected from northeasterly winds and offers unique experiences like camel safaris. You can also drive your 4WD onto the sand for a personal fishing tour.
Guided tours in Port Macquarie
3. Flynns Beach
Flynns Beach is a family-friendly beach with calm waters and lifeguard patrols. It has convenient facilities like the Sandbox Cafe and picnic areas under Norfolk pines. Accommodations like Beaches Holiday Resort are nearby, though parking can be limited.
4. Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach offers a tranquil setting with rainforest surroundings and is great for families. It features rock pools, picnic and barbecue facilities, and is close to the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre for those interested in exploring nature trails.
5. Nobbys Beach
Nobbys Beach is a dog-friendly beach with calm waters and fishing opportunities. It's not patrolled by lifeguards, so swimming should be done with caution. The beach is accessible via a scenic coastal walk.
6. Oxley Beach
Oxley Beach is a less crowded spot perfect for picnics, with covered tables and barbecue facilities. It's dog-friendly and offers a serene environment for swimming and fishing.
7. Rocky Beach
Rocky Beach is an off-leash dog-friendly area with a rugged landscape. It's not suitable for swimming due to the rocks and rips, but it's a peaceful spot for fishing and enjoying the views from the Rocky Beach Lookout.
8. North Beach, North Shore
North Beach is a remote and expansive beach accessible by river ferry, offering 4WD driving, beach fishing, and a sense of seclusion. A permit is required for beach driving.
9. Miners Beach
Miners Beach is a secluded spot surrounded by rainforest, ideal for a quiet day of relaxation. It's accessible via a rainforest track and is a romantic destination for couples.
10. Grants Beach (North Haven) & Pilot Beach (Camden Head)
Grants Beach is known for surfing, while Pilot Beach offers calmer waters for swimming. Both beaches have picnic facilities and are backed by lush bushland, with off-leash areas for dogs at the north end of Grants Beach.
11. Lake Cathie Beach
Lake Cathie Beach is a family-friendly location with calm lake waters, a playground, and picnic facilities. It's also suitable for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
12. Rainbow Beach, Bonnie Hills
Rainbow Beach is a family favorite with a playground, picnic tables, and a surf lifesaving club. It's a great spot for surfing, fishing, and enjoying the beach atmosphere.
Port Macquarie's beaches offer something for everyone, from serene, secluded spots to family-friendly shores with plenty of amenities. Whether you're looking to surf, swim, or simply relax on the sand, you'll find the perfect beach to enjoy.
