Photo: © House of Commons / CC BY 3.0
Pmq (pronounced 'p-m-q') is a hidden gem on the New South Wales north coast, where the lush green hills of the hinterland meet the sparkling Pacific. This laid-back coastal town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a foodie in search of farm-fresh produce, or a nature lover keen to explore national parks, Pmq has something special in store.
Highlights & What to See
- Pmq Beach – A stunning stretch of golden sand backed by coastal heath, ideal for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun. The northern end is a favourite with local surfers.
- Pmq National Park – Explore ancient rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastal cliffs on well-marked walking trails. The Pmq Lookout offers panoramic views of the coastline.
- Pmq Farmers Market – Held every Saturday morning, this vibrant market showcases the region's best local produce, artisan cheeses, freshly baked bread, and gourmet treats. Perfect for packing a picnic.
- Pmq Museum – Housed in a historic timber building, this small museum tells the story of the area's Indigenous heritage, early European settlement, and timber industry.
Suggested Time to Spend
Two to three days is ideal to soak up the atmosphere of Pmq. Spend your first day exploring the town and beach, then dedicate a full day to hiking in the national park. A third morning allows for a relaxed visit to the farmers market before heading off. If you're short on time, even an overnight stop gives you a taste of the coastal charm.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Coffs Harbour – 30 minutes south, with the iconic Big Banana, beautiful beaches, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.
- Bellingen – A creative hinterland town 20 minutes inland, known for its arts scene, the Bellingen River, and the stunning Dorrigo National Park.
- Nambucca Heads – 40 minutes north, offering the famous V-Wall painted rocks, excellent fishing, and laid-back coastal vibes.
- Dorrigo National Park – A World Heritage-listed rainforest with the spectacular Dangar Falls and the Skywalk, about 40 minutes from Pmq.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Coffs Harbour — Paul Lakin / CC BY 3.0
- Bellingen — Wikistellar01 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Nambucca Heads — Bob T / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Dorrigo National Park — Cgoodwin / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Sawtell — JaredMcKenzie / CC0
- Urunga — Johncatsoulis at English Wikipedia / Public domain