The Greater Port Macquarie region offers you a choice of 15 beautiful beaches stretching from Port Macquarie through to Dunbogan.
With 17 glorious beaches within the greater Port Macquarie area, you are spoiled for choice. Whether it's surf, a run on the sand or a spot to build sand castles with the kids, you're bound to find what you're after.
Find the best waves
In the local Port Macquarie area, the best surfing breaks can be found at Lighthouse, Flynns and Town beaches, although Shelly and the North Shore beaches have good waves to offer as well. Bear in mind the Middle at Town Beach is recommended for experienced surfers only. A bit further afield, Rainbow and North Haven beaches are the top picks, but Cathie, Grants and Dunbogan beaches are also great surfing spots.
Flynns Beach is one of Port Macquarie's best family beaches, and along with Town and Lighthouse Beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers during the school holidays. Shelly Beach is another favourite for families with a large natural rock pool on the south end that helps keep the water calm for little swimmers at mid to low tide. Keep in mind this beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.
Fish for your dinner
You'll find BBQs and picnic areas at Town, Oxley, Flynns and Shelly beaches, and if you're keen to catch your lunch yourself, great beach fishing spots can be found at the break wall, Rocky and South Lighthouse beaches. A little to the south, Wash House and Dunbogan beaches are also good spots to throw in a line. However, if you don't feel like dealing with the hassle of bringing your own lunch, let alone dealing with hooks and bait, don't despair! Town, Flynns and Lighthouse beaches all have cafes or kiosks where you can grab a drink, a bite to eat or an ice cream.
Dog-friendly beaches in Port Macquarie
And the pooches don't miss out either. Nobbys Beach is a favourite with dog owners, and dogs are also permitted on several other beaches in the Port Macquarie area, including North, Oxley (on leash only), Rocky beaches and south of Watonga rock on Lighthouse beach.
If you're in the Port Macquarie region between May and November and are keen to do some whale watching, there are a number of cruise providers to take you out on the water to catch the magnificent creatures in action.
Au naturel options available
Or simply keep your eyes peeled as you gaze upon the ocean views afforded by the many beautiful coastal walking tracks that can be found on and around nearly all of Port Macquarie's beaches. Just be aware that you might get a view of a little more than you expected if you go for a stroll on the walking track from Lighthouse Beach to Miners Beach - it's an unofficial nudist spot for those who prefer their ocean swimming 'au naturel'. The beaches of Port Macquarie certainly have something for everyone.
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