Laguna Bay

Laguna Bay is a serene coastal enclave just north of Port Macquarie, where the Hastings River meets the sea. This quiet stretch of sand and estuary offers a peaceful escape from busier beaches, with calm waters perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The bay is fringed by coastal bushland and low dunes, giving it a wild, unspoiled feel that rewards those who make the short detour.

Highlights & What to See

• Swim in the calm estuary – The protected waters of Laguna Bay are ideal for families and less confident swimmers, with gentle currents and a sandy bottom.
• Paddleboard or kayak the Hastings River – Launch from the bay and explore the mangrove-lined river channels, spotting pelicans, stingrays, and maybe a sea eagle overhead.
• Walk the coastal track – A short walking trail from the carpark leads along the headland, offering panoramic views of the bay, the river mouth, and the distant lighthouse at Tacking Point.
• Fish off the rocks – The rocky headlands at either end of the bay are popular with local anglers chasing bream, flathead, and whiting.
• Picnic with a view – There are shaded picnic tables and barbecue facilities near the carpark, making it an easy spot for a relaxed lunch by the water.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find half a day at Laguna Bay is plenty – enough for a morning swim, a paddle, and a picnic lunch. If you’re keen on fishing or want to walk the entire coastal track, allow a full day to soak up the atmosphere. The bay is also a lovely spot for a sunset session, when the light turns the water gold and the crowds thin out.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Just 10 minutes south, this vibrant coastal town offers the Koala Hospital, a lively waterfront dining scene, and the historic Port Macquarie Museum.
• Tacking Point Lighthouse – A short drive or coastal walk away, this 19th-century lighthouse sits on a dramatic headland with whale-watching opportunities in season.
• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre – Explore a boardwalk through a subtropical rainforest canopy, complete with guided tours and a café, 15 minutes south of Laguna Bay.
• Lake Cathie – A picturesque coastal lake with calm swimming, kayaking, and a popular walking track, just 15 minutes north.
• Port Macquarie Beaches (Town Beach, Flynns Beach) – If you’re after surf or a busier beach vibe, these are a short drive south and offer patrolled swimming and café strips.

Please check official sources for current details.