Scenic Rim

Perched above the lush Camden Haven valley, the Scenic Rim is a breathtaking escarpment drive that delivers panoramic views of rainforest, river systems, and the distant Pacific. This 30-kilometre loop is a highlight of the Port Macquarie hinterland, offering a perfect blend of nature, local produce, and quiet adventure. Whether you're self-driving or weaving it into a longer itinerary, the rim rewards with cool air, birdlife, and a sense of discovery far from the coastal crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Boorganna Nature Reserve – Walk through ancient rainforest to the pristine Rawson Falls, a 20-metre cascade that plunges into a deep swimming hole. Keep an eye out for satin bowerbirds and their blue-tinted bowers.
• Diamond Head Lookout – A short, steep climb rewards with 360-degree views over the Camden Haven River, Crowdy Bay National Park, and the coastline all the way to Port Macquarie on a clear day.
• The Honeysuckle Trail – A gentle 2.5 km walk through towering eucalypts and flowering heath, perfect for spotting lyrebirds and wallabies at dawn or dusk.
• Johns River – A sleepy hamlet where you can launch a kayak or cast a line in the tranquil waters; the local general store is a gem for homemade pies.
• Kendall – This historic timber town on the rim’s edge boasts a lively café scene, antique shops, and the famous Kendall Showground markets (check dates).

Suggested Time to Spend

Devote a full day to the Scenic Rim loop to truly soak it in. Start mid-morning from Port Macquarie, stop for a picnic lunch at one of the lookouts, and allow time for a short walk and a coffee in Kendall before returning. If you're a keen hiker or birdwatcher, consider an overnight stay in the hinterland to explore more trails at a relaxed pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – The coastal hub offers beaches, the Koala Hospital, and the lively Settlement City precinct; a natural start or end point for your rim drive.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Rugged headlands, the iconic Diamond Head, and the ghostly 'Diamond Waters' tree; combine with the rim for a full day of coastal and hinterland exploration.
• Wauchope – A historic timber town on the Hastings River, home to the Timbertown heritage park and excellent local wineries.
• Ellenborough Falls – One of Australia's highest single-drop waterfalls, about 45 minutes west of the rim; a spectacular side trip for waterfall chasers.

Please check official sources for current details.