Brookvale

Brookvale is a laid-back coastal suburb just south of Port Macquarie, offering a perfect blend of nature and local charm. With its pristine beaches, lush hinterland, and a growing food scene, it's a great spot for travellers seeking a quieter slice of the Mid-North Coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Shelly Beach – a sheltered, family-friendly cove ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and picnicking; keep an eye out for dolphins.
• Port Macquarie Coastal Walk – the section from Shelly Beach to Tacking Point Lighthouse offers stunning ocean views and whale-watching opportunities (May–November).
• Lake Innes Nature Reserve – a peaceful wetland with walking trails, birdwatching, and a historic homestead ruins.
• Brookvale Creek – a serene spot for kayaking or paddleboarding, winding through mangroves and paperbark forests.
• Local cafés and bakeries – grab a flat white and a pastry at one of the neighbourhood spots, like the popular Brookvale Store.

Suggested Time to Spend

Brookvale works well as a half-day to full-day stop. Spend a morning at Shelly Beach, then explore the coastal walk or Lake Innes Nature Reserve. If you're short on time, even a couple of hours for a beach stroll and coffee is rewarding. It also makes a convenient base for exploring Port Macquarie proper, just a 10-minute drive away.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – a vibrant town with the Koala Hospital, historic Gaol, and the lively Town Beach precinct.
• Tacking Point – home to the historic lighthouse and dramatic coastal cliffs, perfect for sunset.
• Bonny Hills – a relaxed surf beach with a long stretch of sand and a rock-pool at Rainbow Beach.
• Wauchope – a charming hinterland town with the historic Timbertown attraction and the Bago Vineyards.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – a wild coastal park with dramatic headlands, secluded beaches, and the iconic 'Diamond Head' walk.

Please check official sources for current details.