Port Macquarie Beaches

The Port Macquarie region is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, and with 17 to choose from in the immediate vicinity, you are bound to find one that’s perfect for you. Whether for family fun in the sun, surfing, 4WDing or learning to surf, it’s easy to find an uncrowded stretch of sand to lay your towel out.

Coastal views of Town Beach from Gaol Point Lookout, Port Macquarie

Surf’s up

With world-class breaks and consistent swell, Port Macquarie’s beaches are a surfer’s delight, with popular spots including the Breakwall at Town Beach, Grants Beach in North Haven, Flynns Beach and Shelly Beach. Learn to surf at accredited schools such as Soul Surfing and Port Macquarie Surf School; or head to the renowned kite-surfing spot Lighthouse Beach, which curls for 9km south of the heritage-listed Tacking Point Lighthouse, built in 1879. The point is a great spot for whale watching.

Aerial of Nobby Head along with Nobby Beach, situated on Port Macquarie's coastline.

Beach activities

Riding ‘the ship of the desert’ along the rippled sand of Lighthouse Beach with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris is a fun and unique family activity, with safaris operating Sunday through Friday between 9.30am and 1pm (no bookings, just come on down – and cash only). There are eight dog-friendly beaches in the area, including all of Nobby’s Beach, Lighthouse and Lake Cathie Beach. You can also take 4WDs on some beaches – just make sure you have a permit.

Woman patting a camel during an experience with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris, Port Macquarie

Coastal walks

For breathtaking views, the Port Macquarie coastal walk from the town centre to Tacking Point Lighthouse to is a wonderful walking trail that winds past a number of stunning beaches, including Town, Flynns and Shelly, and through Sea Acres National Park.

Family enjoying a morning walk on Flynns Beach, Port Macquarie on the North Coast

The walking track is 9km one-way and can be broken into four smaller sections. Picnic tables and barbecue facilities are located at:

  • Flynns Beach
  • Shelly Beach
  • Lake Cathie Beach
  • Rainbow Beach, south of Duchess Creek
  • Grants Beach, near the breakwall
  • Pilot Beach
Scenic views across the Port Macquarie coastline, North Coast

Beach cafes & where to stay

Port Macquarie boasts some charming beach-front cafes where you can soak up the sun and take in the beach action, including dolphins riding the surf. Just along from the Town Green, Little Shack is a popular breakfast spot; while Salty Crew Kiosk enjoys magnificent views of Town Beach.

Friends enjoying afternoon drinks at The Beach House Restaurant and Bar in Port Macquarie, North Coast

There are plenty of places to stay with beach views, from ritzy resorts, apartments and beach houses to camping and holiday parks, such as the NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park.

NSW Beach Safety

Enjoy NSW beaches by following these safety tips

Always swim between the red and yellow flags; surf lifesavers have identified this area as the safest spot to swim in the water. It's also a good idea to always swim with a friend.

Pay attention to the advice of the lifesavers and safety signs. Visit SharkSmart to understand any potential risks in the area you are swimming. You are always welcome to ask lifeguards for more safety advice. If you find yourself needing help in the water, stay calm and attract attention. Check conditions before you go. You can also find patrolled beach by visiting beachsafe.org.au.

Greater Port Macquarie Beaches

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