Seaside Scenic Walk

The Seaside Scenic Walk is a stunning coastal trail that hugs Port Macquarie's dramatic shoreline, offering breathtaking ocean views, secluded beaches, and lush coastal rainforest. This 15-km track (one way) is a highlight of the region, perfect for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers wanting to experience the raw beauty of the Mid North Coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Tacking Point Lighthouse: Australia's oldest lighthouse (built 1879) perched on a rocky headland with panoramic ocean vistas and whale-watching opportunities (June–November).
• Shelly Beach: A calm, protected cove ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking, with crystal-clear waters and a grassy reserve.
• Miners Beach: A clothing-optional beach nestled between rocky cliffs, accessed via a short boardwalk through coastal heath.
• Lighthouse Beach: A long, wild surf beach stretching south from the lighthouse, popular with surfers and dog walkers (dogs allowed off-leash in designated areas).
• Coastal Rainforest Sections: The trail passes through pockets of littoral rainforest with towering cabbage tree palms, bangalay gums, and prolific birdlife, including rainbow lorikeets and sea eagles.
• Lookouts and Boardwalks: Several elevated platforms offer photo-worthy vantage points over the rugged coastline, especially at Rocky Point and The Ruins.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 3–4 hours to walk the full 15-km one-way track, or break it into shorter sections – the 5-km stretch between Tacking Point Lighthouse and Shelly Beach is a popular half-day loop. Most visitors spend a full day exploring the walk, with stops for swimming, birdwatching, and a picnic lunch. If you're short on time, the 2-km coastal boardwalk from Town Beach to Flynns Beach is a scenic 30-minute stroll. The walk is accessible year-round, though summer mornings and late afternoons are best to avoid heat.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie Town Centre: Explore the historic port, boutique shops, and the award-winning Glasshouse cultural centre, just a 5-minute drive from the walk's northern end.
• Koala Hospital: A world-renowned wildlife hospital and sanctuary dedicated to koala conservation, located near the walk's southern trailhead.
• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre: Experience a 1.6-km elevated boardwalk through a protected coastal rainforest, home to ancient trees and rare wildlife.
• Hastings River & Settlement Point: Enjoy river cruises, kayaking, and fishing along the Hastings River, with views of the historic settlement point.
• Camden Haven Region: A short drive south, this area offers stunning beaches, national parks, and the charming town of Laurieton.

Please check official sources for current details.