Norries Head

Norries Head is a dramatic headland just south of Port Macquarie, where the lush green hills of the mid-north coast meet the wild Tasman Sea. This is a place for sweeping ocean views, coastal walks, and a real sense of the untamed beauty of New South Wales. The headland itself is a rugged, windswept promontory with a lighthouse and a history of shipwrecks, offering a perfect spot to watch whales during migration season (June–November) or simply breathe in the salt air.

Highlights & What to See

• Coastal Walk from Shelly Beach: A stunning 3.5 km return trail that hugs the cliffs, passing through coastal heath and offering uninterrupted views of the ocean. The track ends at the headland, where you can explore the lighthouse and lookouts.
• Norries Head Lighthouse: Built in 1903, this charming whitewashed lighthouse is still active. It's not open to the public, but the grounds and the views from the base are superb, especially at sunrise.
• Whale Watching: From the headland's vantage points, you can often see humpback whales breaching and spouting during their annual migration. Bring binoculars and a camera.
• Headland Picnic Area: A grassy area with picnic tables and barbecues, perfect for a relaxed lunch with a view. The sound of the waves crashing below adds to the atmosphere.
• Rock Pools at Low Tide: At the base of the headland, rocky platforms reveal small tide pools teeming with marine life – starfish, anemones, and tiny crabs. Great for families.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can experience the highlights of Norries Head in a half-day trip, ideally in the morning when the light is best for photography and the sea breeze is fresh. Combine the coastal walk (allow 1–1.5 hours) with a picnic and some time whale watching (another hour). If you're a keen photographer or birdwatcher, you might stay for a full afternoon. The headland is also a lovely spot for sunset, though the walk back in the dark requires a torch.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie: Just 10 minutes north, this vibrant coastal town offers the Koala Hospital, historic sites, and a lively waterfront dining scene. Combine Norries Head with a morning at the Koala Hospital and lunch at the Town Beach.
• Shelly Beach: A sheltered, family-friendly beach at the start of the coastal walk to Norries Head. Perfect for a swim or snorkel before or after your headland adventure.
• Lake Cathie: A peaceful coastal lake system 15 minutes south, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching. The Lake Cathie Foreshore Reserve has walking trails and picnic spots.
• Bago Maze & Winery: About 20 minutes inland, this fun attraction combines a large hedge maze with a cellar door offering local wines and cheese platters. A quirky addition to a day trip.
• Kempsey: A historic town 30 minutes south, with a rich Indigenous heritage and the Macleay Valley Museum. It's a good stop if you're driving the coastal route between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.

Please check official sources for current details.