Best beaches around Port Macquarie

There are a couple of good beaches immediately south of town that are fine, but my favourite spot is Crescent Head, about 20 km north ... excellent. Hat Head a bit further north is nice too for a day trip and picnic.

Won't be too quiet anywhere along the coast over Christmas, but South West Rocks and particularly Horseshoe Bay beach there is good for safe swimming.

Yes, I like South West Rocks too ... it's 85 km, but a good enough road. Or take the scenic route via Crescent Head.

Yep, plenty of beaches right at Port MacQuarie and further afield for day trips so might just be a case of seeing what suits you and staying close if you want to avoid having longer in holiday traffic. Lake Cathie is also not too far south of PM and a very pleasant setting - http://www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au/explore/location.aspx?id=192

Hi,
I live in Port Macquarie and we have excellent beaches.
You dont need to go out of town. The quietest beach, with respect to waves is Shelly, which is lovely for small children, and if you just want to swim. Good snorkelling too on the high tide.
Patrolled beaches are Flynns (usually has the best surf), Town and Lighthouse. If you are avoiding crowds, Lighthouse is the least crowded, as it is a very long beach, but it can be dangerous if rough. Lighthouse and Flynns have cafes.
Of the other places mentioned, Crescent Head is a famous point surf break for board riders and is about an hours drive north. I love Hat head too. Rainbow Beach at Bonny Hills (half an hour south) is very good too. You should have a lovely holiday.

I think you might be our first Port Macquarie correspondent, hopstop! I like the place - including fishing on the river. My family has had a beach-house at Crowdy Head for about 60 years as well.

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