North Haven

North Haven is a serene coastal village at the mouth of the Camden Haven River, where the river meets the sea and the pace of life slows to a gentle rhythm. With its unpretentious beach shacks, calm swimming spots, and a working fishing fleet, this is the kind of place where you kick off your sandals and let the salt air do the rest. It’s a hidden gem for travellers who want to escape the crowds and experience a genuine slice of New South Wales’ coastal culture.

Highlights & What to See

• North Haven Beach – A long, sandy stretch perfect for long walks, with patrolled swimming in summer. The northern end is a favourite for surfers when the swell picks up.
• Camden Haven Inlet – Watch the fishing boats come and go, or launch a kayak to explore the still waters of the river. Pelicans and ospreys are regulars here.
• North Haven Boat Ramp & Jetty – A hub of local activity; bring a picnic and watch the catch of the day being unloaded. It’s also a prime spot for a sundowner.
• Dunbogan Boatshed – A historic waterfront café and boat hire joint where you can grab a coffee and a homemade pie, then hire a tinny for a lazy afternoon on the river.
• Kattang Nature Reserve – A short drive south, this coastal reserve offers a lovely walking track through banksia scrub to a lookout over Diamond Head and the ocean.

Suggested Time to Spend

North Haven rewards a slow pace. Most visitors spend a night or two, allowing for a full day of beach time, a kayak or boat hire on the river, and a sunset walk along the inlet. If you’re passing through on a road trip, a few hours suffice for a swim and a coffee, but you’ll wish you had longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – 30 minutes north, with its excellent coastal walk, koala hospital, and vibrant café scene.
• Laurieton – Across the bridge, this historic river town has a charming main street and the Camden Haven Historical Museum.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – A wild, beautiful stretch of coastline with dramatic sea stacks and the historic Diamond Head camping area.
• Wauchope – Gateway to the lush hinterland of the Comboyne Plateau and the Timbertown heritage attraction.
• Bonny Hills – A laid-back surf beach just south, with a popular coastal walk to Grants Head.

Please check official sources for current details.