Tarry Beach

Just a short drive south of Port Macquarie, Tarry Beach is a wild, windswept stretch of sand that feels a world away from the town's busier foreshore. This is where the Tasman Sea meets the dramatic headlands of the Crowdy Bay National Park, offering a raw coastal experience that rewards those who come with a sense of adventure. Surfers know it for its reliable swells, but even if you don't ride the waves, the sheer power of the ocean and the untouched dune system make this a memorable stop.

Highlights & What to See

• Surfing & Bodyboarding – Tarry Beach is a consistent beach break, best on a mid-tide with a southerly swell. It's less crowded than Port Macquarie's main beaches, so you'll often have plenty of waves to yourself.
• Coastal Walks – Follow the track north along the headland for sweeping views back over the beach and out to sea. In winter, keep an eye out for humpback whales migrating past.
• Fishing – The southern end of the beach is a popular spot for beach fishing, with tailor and bream common in the gutters.
• Picnicking with a View – There are basic picnic tables near the car park, but the real draw is finding your own patch of sand and watching the waves roll in.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Tarry Beach is the northern gateway to this park, which protects coastal heath and dramatic sea cliffs. The nearby Diamond Head offers excellent short walks and camping.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a couple of hours here – enough for a surf, a walk, or a picnic. If you're combining it with a visit to Crowdy Bay National Park, plan for a half-day. The beach is exposed and can be windy, so it's not a full-day sunbathing spot, but the raw beauty makes it worth the detour.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Just 20 minutes north, with its lively marina, koala hospital, and excellent café scene.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Explore Diamond Head and the coastal heath walks; camping is available for those who want to stay longer.
• Lake Cathie – A calm, sheltered lake perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, a short drive north.
• North Haven – A quiet village at the mouth of the Camden Haven River, with a good pub and a lovely beach.
• Laurieton – A charming historic town on the Camden Haven Inlet, with a great bakery and scenic walks up North Brother Mountain.

Please check official sources for current details.