Sunshine Coast Beaches

Stretching north of Port Macquarie, the Sunshine Coast Beaches are a breathtaking ribbon of golden sand, rolling surf, and headland-framed coves that feel a world away from the crowds. This is where the New South Wales coast puts on its wild, untamed face — think long walks on empty shores, the roar of the Pacific, and a hinterland of eucalypt forests meeting the sea. Whether you're after a swim, a surf, or simply a picnic with an ocean backdrop, these beaches deliver an authentic slice of coastal Australia.

Highlights & What to See

• Lighthouse Beach – A vast, dog-friendly stretch with a historic lighthouse at its southern end; perfect for long walks and watching the waves roll in.
• Shelly Beach – Sheltered and calm, ideal for families and snorkelling around the rocky headlands at low tide.
• Miners Beach – A clothing-optional favourite, backed by dunes and native vegetation, offering a sense of seclusion.
• North Haven Beach – At the mouth of the Hastings River, this beach combines river and ocean swimming, with great birdlife and a laid-back vibe.
• Bonny Hills Beaches – Just south, a series of patrolled beaches (Rainbow, Grant, and Bartlett) with good surf breaks and picnic facilities.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least half a day to explore the main beaches — you could easily spend a full day hopping between them, with a lunch stop at a beachside café. If you're on a self-drive itinerary, consider basing yourself in Port Macquarie for two nights: one day for the town and one day dedicated to these coastal gems. The beaches are best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and catch the light at its most photogenic.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – The lively hub with the Koala Hospital, historic gaol, and the scenic Coastal Walk.
• Hastings River – Explore by kayak or take a river cruise to spot dolphins and oyster farms.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Dramatic sea cliffs, coastal heath, and the iconic 'Diamond Head' lookout.
• Wauchope – A charming country town with the Timbertown heritage park and access to the Comboyne Plateau.
• Lake Cathie – A peaceful coastal lake popular for swimming, fishing, and birdwatching, with a short walking track.

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