Light House Beach

Light House Beach is a secluded gem tucked beneath the historic Tacking Point Lighthouse on the NSW Mid North Coast. With its golden sands, rolling surf, and dramatic headland views, this beach offers a quieter alternative to the more popular Town Beach, making it a favourite for locals and in-the-know travellers seeking a dose of coastal serenity.

Highlights & What to See

• Tacking Point Lighthouse: Climb to this 1879 lighthouse for panoramic views stretching from Port Macquarie to Camden Haven. It’s one of the oldest lighthouses in NSW and a perfect spot for whale watching (June–November).
• Surfing & Bodyboarding: The beach picks up consistent swell, with a right-hand break off the rocks that works best on a mid-to-high tide. Bring your own board; there are no rentals on-site.
• Rock Pools & Snorkelling: At low tide, explore the rocky platforms at the southern end, where small pools harbour starfish, crabs, and colourful anemones.
• Coastal Walk: The 3.5 km track from Lighthouse Beach to Miners Beach winds through coastal heath and offers frequent whale-spotting vantage points.
• Dogs on Leash: This is one of the few beaches in Port Macquarie where dogs are allowed (on a leash at all times), making it a great stop for travellers with pets.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ideal: spend an hour or two swimming and sunbaking, then walk up to the lighthouse for photos and a picnic. If you’re keen on the coastal walk, allow 2–3 hours return. Combine with a morning coffee at a nearby café in Port Macquarie before heading south.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie Town Beach: A lively patrolled beach with a long pier, perfect for a swim or a stroll along the breakwall.
• Koala Hospital: Just 5 minutes’ drive away, this world-famous wildlife hospital lets you see rescued koalas up close.
• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre: A boardwalk through coastal rainforest, home to flying foxes, goannas, and abundant birdlife – a 10-minute drive from the beach.
• Camden Haven: The scenic drive south to Laurieton and North Brother Mountain offers lookout walks and quiet waterways for kayaking.
• Port Macquarie Hastings River: Take a cruise or hire a kayak to explore the river’s mangrove-lined banks and spot pelicans and dolphins.

Please check official sources for current details.