Paddington

Paddington is a serene coastal suburb of Port Macquarie, where the Hastings River meets the sea. It offers a peaceful escape with beautiful beaches, scenic river walks, and a laid-back vibe that feels a world away from the busier town centre. It's a favourite spot for families, kayakers, and anyone seeking a quiet slice of nature without straying far from amenities.

Highlights & What to See

• Shelly Beach: A protected, family-friendly beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling, backed by a grassy reserve with picnic tables and barbecues.
• Hastings River Walk: A gentle paved path along the riverbank, ideal for a morning stroll or bike ride, with mangroves, birdlife, and views of the marina.
• Port Macquarie Coastal Walk: The section through Paddington offers dramatic ocean vistas and passes the historic Tacking Point Lighthouse, one of Australia's oldest surviving lighthouses (built 1879).
• Sea Acres National Park: A coastal rainforest just south, with a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through a canopy of towering palms and ferns, and guided night tours to spot possums and owls.
• Local Cafés: Enjoy a flat white at one of the beachside cafés, such as the popular Salty Crew, where you can watch surfers roll in over breakfast.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is plenty to explore Paddington's main attractions. Start with a morning walk along the coastal path to the lighthouse, then cool off at Shelly Beach. Grab lunch at a local café before an afternoon kayak on the Hastings River (kayaks available for hire at the marina). If you're a keen walker, combine with a short hike in Sea Acres National Park for a full day of nature.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie Town Centre: Just a 5-minute drive, with the historic Port Macquarie Museum, the Koala Hospital, and lively waterfront dining.
• Flynns Beach: Another lovely patrolled beach a few minutes south, popular for swimming and surfing, with a rock pool.
• Lake Cathie: A peaceful coastal lake and nature reserve 15 minutes south, great for birdwatching and paddleboarding.
• Wauchope: A charming historic timber town 20 minutes inland, with the Timbertown heritage park and the Hastings River's upper reaches.
• Camden Haven: A string of quiet coastal villages (Laurieton, North Haven) about 30 minutes south, offering stunning views from North Brother Mountain.

Please check official sources for current details.