Photo: lovemakesaway / CC BY-SA 2.0
Sheltered and serene, Kylies Beach is a pocket-sized paradise tucked into the headland just south of Port Macquarie. With its calm, turquoise waters and soft white sand, this cove feels like a secret hideaway even in peak season. Backed by a grassy reserve and framed by rocky outcrops, it’s a favourite for families, snorkellers, and anyone craving a gentle dip without the swell of the main beaches. The bushland backdrop adds a touch of wildness, while the nearby path offers a short coastal walk with sweeping ocean views.
Highlights & What to See
- Snorkel the rocky edges – The sheltered bay and rocky headlands create a haven for fish and marine life; bring a mask and fins to explore the clear shallows.
- Swim in calm conditions – Protected from the prevailing winds, the beach offers safe, gentle swimming for all ages, with lifeguard patrols during summer.
- Walk the Kylies Beach to Shelly Beach coastal path – A short, scenic clifftop trail connects the two beaches, passing lookout points perfect for whale-watching (May–November).
- Picnic on the grassy reserve – Shaded tables and barbecues make this an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch with ocean views.
- Explore the rock pools at low tide – The exposed platforms reveal tiny crabs, anemones, and starfish – a delight for curious kids.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours here – enough for a swim, a snorkel, and a leisurely picnic. If you’re walking the coastal trail to Shelly Beach, allow an extra hour. The beach is small, so it works best as a morning or late-afternoon stop rather than an all-day destination. For a quieter experience, arrive early before the crowds trickle in.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Shelly Beach – Just a 10-minute walk along the coast, this more exposed beach offers good surf breaks and a lively café scene.
- Port Macquarie town centre – 5 minutes’ drive away, with the Koala Hospital, historic lighthouse, and a thriving waterfront dining precinct.
- Sea Acres Rainforest Centre – A short drive south, this boardwalk through coastal rainforest is a must for nature lovers.
- Lake Innes Nature Reserve – A peaceful wetland teeming with birdlife, perfect for a gentle kayak or paddleboard session.
- North Brother Mountain – Part of the Dooragan National Park, this lookout offers panoramic views from the coast to the hinterland, about 20 minutes inland.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Shelly Beach — J Bar / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Port Macquarie Koala Hospital — Inas / CC0
- Sea Acres Rainforest Centre — Bild von bere von awstburg auf Pixabay https://pixabay.com/de/photos/die-dschungel-von-chiapas-1865639/ / CC0
- North Brother Mountain — Duncan Giles ( talk · contribs ) / CC BY 2.5
- Port Macquarie Lighthouse — Inas / CC0