Photo: Bilby / CC BY 3.0
North Haven is a serene coastal village at the mouth of the Camden Haven River, where the calm waters meet the Pacific Ocean. With its family-friendly beaches, lush national park backdrop, and laid-back vibe, it's a perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and nature without the crowds.
Highlights & What to See
- North Haven Beach – A patrolled, gentle beach ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with picnic tables and a playground nearby.
- Camden Haven River – Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the tranquil river, or join a fishing charter for flathead and bream.
- North Haven Boat Ramp – A popular launch point for exploring the Camden Haven waterways and the nearby offshore islands.
- North Haven Foreshore Reserve – A grassy park with barbecues, a children's playground, and walking paths along the river – perfect for a sunset stroll.
- Laurieton & Camden Haven – Just across the bridge, the historic town of Laurieton offers cafes, galleries, and the famous 'Big Oyster' lookout.
Suggested Time to Spend
North Haven is a great day trip from Port Macquarie or a relaxed stop on a coastal road trip. Spend half a day to enjoy the beach and a river kayak, or a full day to combine with a walk in the nearby Lake Cathie Reserve or a visit to Laurieton. If you have more time, consider an overnight stay to catch the sunrise over the ocean.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Port Macquarie – 20 minutes south, with its historic gaol, Koala Hospital, and lively waterfront.
- Lake Cathie – A scenic lake and coastal reserve with walking trails and birdwatching, just 10 minutes north.
- Bonny Hills – A quiet surf beach and headland with panoramic views, 15 minutes north.
- Camden Haven River & Laurieton – Explore the river by boat or visit the charming town with its cafes and the 'Big Oyster'.
- Crowdy Bay National Park – A wild coastal park with dunes, rainforest, and the historic Diamond Head, 30 minutes north.
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
- Port Macquarie — Inas / CC0
- Lake Cathie — Photnart ( talk ) / Public domain
- Bonny Hills — OZmobi / Public domain
- Laurieton — Rohan Stelling / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Crowdy Bay National Park — Grahamec / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Camden Haven River — TripleThree ( talk ) / CC-BY-SA-3.0