Laurieton

Laurieton is a sleepy riverfront town on the Camden Haven River, where the water glints between lush green hills and the Pacific Ocean is just a sandbar away. It’s the kind of place where you can watch pelicans glide past while sipping coffee, then be hiking in a national park within minutes. With a laid-back vibe and easy access to both river and ocean, it’s a perfect stop on a NSW north coast road trip.

Highlights & What to See

• North Brother Mountain: A steep but rewarding 4km return walk through rainforest to a fire tower with panoramic views of the coast and hinterland.
• Camden Haven River: Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the calm, mangrove-lined waterways. Keep an eye out for stingrays and dolphins.
• Laurieton Historic Walk: A self-guided stroll past 19th-century timber buildings, including the charming old post office and the Star Hotel.
• Dooragan National Park: Just south of town, this park offers the Three Brothers walking track and secluded picnic spots by the river.
• Laurieton Markets: Held on the second Saturday of the month, these markets are great for local honey, handmade soaps, and fresh produce.

Suggested Time to Spend

Laurieton is best enjoyed as a half-day stop or an overnight stay. If you’re passing through, allow two to three hours for a riverside walk, a coffee, and a quick hike up North Brother. For a more relaxed pace, spend a full day: kayak in the morning, picnic by the river at lunch, and tackle the mountain walk in the afternoon. Overnighters can enjoy a sunset drink at the Laurieton Hotel before dinner.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – 30 minutes north, with its famous koala hospital and lively waterfront.
• Camden Haven – The broader region includes the beaches of North Haven and the fishing village of Kendall, home of Australian poet Les Murray.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – 45 minutes south, known for dramatic sea cliffs and the iconic Diamond Head walk.
• Wauchope – 20 minutes inland, gateway to the lush rainforest of the Bago Bluff National Park and the historic Timbertown attraction.

Please check official sources for current details.