Photo: CC BY 2.0
Nobbys Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand on the northern side of Port Macquarie, backed by dramatic headlands and the iconic Nobbys Headland. This patrolled beach offers excellent swimming, surfing, and a relaxed coastal vibe, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Highlights & What to See
- Nobbys Headland & Lighthouse – Walk to the top for panoramic views of the coastline, spot migrating whales (June–November), and explore the historic lighthouse precinct.
- Surfing & Swimming – The beach has consistent waves for all levels; the northern end is popular with surfers, while the southern end is calmer for swimming. Lifeguards patrol in summer.
- Coastal Walk to Town Beach – Follow the scenic path along the headland to Town Beach, passing through Norfolk pines and rocky platforms with tidal pools.
- Picnic & BBQ Facilities – Sheltered picnic tables and electric barbecues are available near the car park, perfect for a family lunch with ocean views.
- Sunset Views – The beach faces west, offering spectacular sunsets over the headland – a photographer’s dream.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for at least half a day (3–4 hours) to enjoy swimming, a walk on the headland, and a picnic. If you’re a keen surfer or walker, you could easily spend a full day here, combining a morning surf with an afternoon coastal walk to Town Beach and back.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Tacking Point Lighthouse – A short drive south, this historic lighthouse offers more stunning coastal views and whale-watching opportunities.
- Port Macquarie Town Beach – A lively patrolled beach with restaurants, cafes, and the Breakwall artwork – just a 20-minute walk along the coast.
- Koala Hospital – Visit the world’s first dedicated koala hospital, located in the Port Macquarie area, to see rescued koalas up close.
- Sea Acres Rainforest Centre – Explore a boardwalk through coastal rainforest, with guided tours and a canopy walkway, only 10 minutes’ drive away.
- Hastings River – Take a river cruise or hire a kayak to explore the waterways, spotting birdlife and mangroves.
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
- Town Beach — U.S. Consulate General Perth / Public domain
- Tacking Point Lighthouse — Tacking Point Lighthouse qtl1.jpg : Quartl derivative work: Tomer T ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Koala Hospital — Diliff / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Sea Acres Rainforest Centre — Bild von bere von awstburg auf Pixabay https://pixabay.com/de/photos/die-dschungel-von-chiapas-1865639/ / CC0
- Hastings River — Sky rockets in flight at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Port Macquarie Coastal Walk — Inas / CC0