Sunrise over rock pools on the southern end of Shelley beach.

©Simon Elphick/FOAP/Getty Images

Shelly Beach

Mid-North Coast


The rainforest runs down to the sand at this delightful beach and tidal lagoon.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Mid-North Coast attractions

1. Sea Acres Rainforest Centre

0.44 MILES

The 72-hectare pocket of Sea Acres National Park protects the state's largest and most diverse stand of coastal rainforest. At the Rainforest Centre you…

2. Miners Beach

0.76 MILES

The rainforest runs down to the sand at this unofficial nudist beach.

3. Flynn's Beach

1.04 MILES

A patrolled beach nestled between two rocky headlands. Excellent for learner surfers.

4. Koala Hospital

1.19 MILES

Chlamydia, traffic accidents and dog attacks are the biggest causes of illness and injury for koalas living near urban areas; about 250 end up in this…

5. Roto House

1.21 MILES

This beautifully preserved late-Victorian weatherboard villa was built by surveyor John Flynn in 1891 and was occupied by his family right up until 1979…

6. Tacking Point Lighthouse

1.44 MILES

This little lighthouse (1879) commands a headland offering immense views along the coast. It’s a great spot from which to watch the waves roll in to long,…

7. Lighthouse Beach

1.53 MILES

This beautiful 9km stretch of sand is perfect for lazy strolling. Time it for sunset when you can climb up to the Tacking Point Lighthouse for stunning…

8. Maritime Museum

1.81 MILES

The old pilot station (1882) above Town Beach has been converted into a small maritime museum, which is full of character. Allow a good hour to pore over…