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Grants Beach looking north toward Grants Head.

Natural Attractions

Grants Beach

Grants (North Haven) Beach is located on the northern side of the Camden Haven River mouth. The southern end is protected by the break wall which offers great 'right handers' with a southerly swell. The beach is home to the Camden Haven Surf Lifesaving Club, which patrols the beach throughout the summer weekends. Dogs are allowed north of the patrolled area. The beach runs north-south for about 3.5 kilometres and is paralleled by a lovely walking track through the littoral forest and heathland. The beach is patrolled by council lifeguards and the Camden Haven Surf Club during school holidays. There are showers, toilets, and picnic tables at the southern end.

North Haven NSW

5.0 km away

Grants Beach Coastal walk track head

Natural Attractions

Grants Beach Coastal Walk

The Grants Beach Coastal Walk starts at North Haven near the mouth of the Camden Haven River and ends at the cliffs of Grants Headland at Bonny Hills. It is well signposted and passes through heathland, rich in wildflowers during late winter and early spring. There are areas of melaleuca swamp, littoral and eucalypt forest. Birdlife is rich along the track with species ranging from honeyeaters and thornbills to glossy black cockatoos and white-bellied sea eagles.

North Haven NSW

5.0 km away

Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park

Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park is located in Queens Lake State Forest Bonny Hills. The park boasts approximately 70 kilometres of single track mountain bike trails for both gravity and cross country mountain bike riding. All trails in the park are sign posted and are rated according to the level of difficulty. The ratings range from beginner to intermediate and advanced. Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park is easily accessible by car and is only a short 20 minutes drive south of Port Macquarie.

Bonny Hills NSW

5.1 km away

Queens Lake Nature Reserve

National Parks and Reserves

Queens Lake Nature Reserve

A little off the beaten track, discover the tranquil charms of Queens Lake Nature Reserve, just south of Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast. With a variety of lush vegetation, including stands of magnificent old growth gums and dense rainforest, you'll see why it's not only a haven for wildlife but nature-lovers too. The pristine lake is an ideal destination for a day of picnicking, swimming, fishing and boating. It's also a popular spot for windsurfing, and families will love the tranquil waters where the kids can play. There's even a small wharf where you can launch a kayak or boat for an afternoon of peaceful paddling. The surrounding forests are home to over 200 species of animals, making this reserve perfect for wildlife and birdwatching. While looking to the tree-tops, you might even spot a koala dozing in the branches.

Jolly Nose NSW

5.4 km away

Pilot Beach

Natural Attractions

Pilot Beach

Around 30 minutes south of Port Macquarie is this calm beach at the mouth of the beautiful Camden Haven River. Pilot Beach is situated between the two break walls, keeping it protected from large seas most of the time. It is the ideal beach for families with young children. It can be accessed off Camden Head Road, Camden Head. Try the Flowerbowl Circuit Walk at Kattang Nature Reserve while in the area. This beach is not patrolled by life guards.

Camden Haven NSW

5.5 km away

Looking back to Wash House Beach and the mouth of the Camden Haven River

Natural Attractions

Perpendicular Point

The majestic Perpendicular Point with its spectacular vertical cliffs plummeting 40 metres to the sea below, is the main feature of Kattang Nature Reserve. This reserve is surrounded by rock platforms, with the Camden Haven estuary to the north. Perpendicular Point is the best spot in the Camden Haven district to watch whales as they migrate to and from the warmer northern waters. Humpback whales can be seen regularly from May to October while the rarer Southern Right whale can sometimes be seen. A variety of habitats include rugged and exposed headlands, patches of littoral rainforest, dry eucalypt forest, and wet and dry heaths. The reserve was declared in 1983 following the efforts of the local Save the Headland Action Group. The two main walks in the reserve feature great views and wildflowers in season.

Camden Head NSW

5.7 km away

Perpendicular Point Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Perpendicular Point Walking Track

It’s not hard to see why this beautiful spot is a favourite among locals and nature-lovers alike. Wander through the shady grove on this short walk and you’ll emerge at majestic Perpendicular Point. From the lookout, you’ll see north to Port Macquarie, south to Diamond Head, and southwest to the dramatic North Brother Mountain in Dooragan National Park. Sitting on the top of the sheer cliffs is a fantastic place to gaze out at the sparkling blue waters and a great vantage point for whale watching and spotting dolphins. To see the view south head to the nearby Charles Hamey lookout. You’re sure to see plenty of birdlife as honeyeaters come in to feed off the banksias and glossy black cockatoos nibble at the black she-oaks. If you're a native flower lover, this easy walk is a must in early spring. You’ll see boronia, flannel flower, everlasting daisy and wedding bush dotted amongst the bushes.

Camden Head NSW

5.8 km away

Queens Lake picnic area

Natural Attractions

Queens Lake picnic area

Be warned; once discovered, you might not want to leave the natural beauty of Queens Lake picnic area, just a short drive south of Port Macquarie. Nestled amongst towering eucalypts and lush rainforest, this idyllic lakeside spot is a refreshing oasis in the summer months. Situated in Queens Lake Nature Reserve on the Mid North Coast, it’s a great day out for families and nature-lovers who enjoy a secluded getaway without the crowds. While away a relaxing day filled with swimming, fishing and boating. Or just sit back in the shade while the little ones enjoy paddling in the calm waters. After a relaxing lunch at the picnic tables, launch the boat or canoe from the small wharf and explore the lake. The surrounding forests make it perfect for wildlife and birdwatching. You might see glossy black cockatoos, swift parrots and, if you’re lucky, perhaps a koala.

Jolly Nose NSW

5.8 km away

Beach to Beach shared pathway at North Haven

Landmarks and Buildings

Beach to Beach Shared Path

The Beach to Beach Shared Path is a scenic route that stretches from the North Haven breakwall all the way to Pilot Beach in Dunbogan, tracing the picturesque shoreline of the Camden Haven River. This well-loved coastal pathway weaves together river views, natural landscapes, and charming village pockets, making it a standout experience for both locals and visitors. Covering approximately 11 kilometres one way, the path is predominantly flat and smooth, offering an easy and enjoyable ride or walk for people of all ages and abilities. Whether you're cycling, strolling, or simply taking in the coastal atmosphere, the Beach to Beach Shared Path provides a relaxed and accessible way to explore one of the region's most beautiful waterways.

North Haven NSW

5.9 km away

Kattang Nature Reserve — Image credit: NSW Government

National Parks and Reserves

Kattang Nature Reserve

Kattang Nature Reserve is a spectacular location on the mid-north coast, just waiting to be explored. Surrounded on all three sides by Pacific Ocean, the majestic Perpendicular Point stands tall with 40m vertical cliffs plummeting to the sea below. The outstanding coastal views from the lookout make a perfect backdrop for a great photograph. Wander along easy walking tracks while taking in magnificent views, and admire the vibrant colours of spring wildflowers which attract the large variety of birdlife. Enjoy picnicking with a view as you indulge in whale watching, and try spotting dolphins in the sparkling waters below. Head to the rock platforms below and laze away the day lying under the shade of the she-oaks with a good book. Take the kids exploring - the abundant marine life in the rockpools will provide hours of fun. Enjoy swimming at Dunbogan Beach and try your luck fishing from the rocky platforms or the sandy beaches.

Camden Head NSW

6.1 km away

Charles Hamey lookout

Natural Attractions

Charles Hamey lookout

Just a short walk from the carpark, you'll be amazed at the breathtaking coastal views from Charles Hamey lookout. Sit on the cliff tops and admire magnificent scenery overlooking Gogleys Lagoon, with North Brother Mountain in Dooragan National Park providing a dramatic backdrop. Gaze across the golden sands of Dunbogan Beach as it sweeps around to Diamond Head in Crowdy Bay National Park. Look out for whales and dolphins in the glistening blue waters below. You'll also see plenty of birdlife, and you may even be lucky enough to see a peregrine falcon flying high above. Then shift your perspective and admire the delicate beauty of the wildflowers around you. In spring, the bush comes to life with bright wildflowers like boronia, flannel flower, everlasting daisy and wedding bush. Why not really immerse yourself in colour and continue walking around the 2km Flower Bowl circuit or try the nearby Perpendicular Point walking track. Take a virtual tour of Charles Hamey lookout captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Camden Head NSW

6.5 km away

Perch Hole picnic area

Natural Attractions

Perch Hole picnic area

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing day by the water at Perch Hole picnic area. People come from miles around to take in this beautiful setting, where you can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing and swimming in this large estuarine lake in the middle of the reserve. Birdwatching is another highlight here, as the lake supports a variety of birdlife including osprey, black swans and wood ducks, as well as many other aquatic animals. Perhaps the best way to enjoy the lake though is to explore it by kayaking, canoeing, or setting sail in a small motored dingy.

Lake Innes NSW

6.5 km away

Joseph Laurie Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Joseph Laurie Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Joseph Laurie who was a 19th century pioneer of the NSW timber industry and one of the first Europeans to settle permanently on the mid-north coast. Visit the blue plaque on the Camden Haven Museum, School of Arts Building, 58 Bold Street, Laurieton NSW 2443 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Laurieton NSW

8.0 km away

Laurieton Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Laurieton Track

Laurieton track is a challenging walk on a rough trail, perfect for the intrepid adventurer. It’s easily accessible, quickly transporting you from the bustle of life in Laurieton and Port Macquarie to the serenity of the forest full of wonderful wildlife. The trail heads through burly, towering blackbutt and eucalyptus forest, making it easy to reflect back on a time when these forests provided the timber lifeblood for the growing community of Laurieton. Some of the enormous old stumps are still there between the regenerating forests, remnants of this pioneering past. Those preferring a less strenuous outing will find Rainforest loop equally enjoyable. This relaxed trail heads through cloud-formed subtropical rainforest, and is a great introduction for people with limited bushwalking experience.

Laurieton NSW

8.2 km away

The view from North Brother Mountain

Natural Attractions

North Brother Mountain

Situated in the Dooragan National Park, North Brother Mountain offers some of the most accessible, panoramic views on the east coast of Australia. The immediate view is over the magnificent Camden Haven Inlet with the Camden Haven River winding between Queens and Watson Taylors Lakes. Views extend to Crowdy Head in the south and as far as Mount Yarrahappini in the north. The picnic facilities and open lawn area is the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the view. Easy accessibility makes it a fantastic destination to bring guests and visitors to the region. You will find excellent trails and walks suiting all fitness levels. If you are looking for more than a view, then try the challenging Laurieton Track - if you dare! You will go through spectacular blackbutt forests which mingle with enormous old stumps, reflecting the old days of timber harvesting in the park. The mountain is also a 'mecca' for para-gliders and hang gliders and is a sight to enjoy as they launch from the summit.

Laurieton NSW

8.7 km away

Rainforest Loop, Dooragan National Park — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Rainforest Loop, Dooragan National Park

Rainforest loop is a relatively relaxed walk leading to the furthest end of the loop, where a small remote lookout platform looks back at Diamond Head. On the southern side of the loop, the rainforest - with its suspended gallery of birds nest ferns - plunges you into an amazing green cathedral. Surprisingly few people use this track, so the casual picnic visitor to the lookouts could easily find a little piece of solitude and serenity in the cool harmony of the rainforest here. The highlight of taking this walk is really the gallery of birds nest ferns, epiphyte orchids, and other plants on the southern part of the loop walk. There’s also an amazing and accessible example of a strangler fig close to the track, near the carpark end of the southern side of the loop walk.

North Brother NSW

8.7 km away

Lake Innes Nature Reserve

National Parks and Reserves

Lake Innes Nature Reserve

Whether you're an eager history student or an outdoor adventurer, you'll find plenty to do at Lake Innes Nature Reserve, not far from Port Macquarie. The reserve features a fascinating historic site set in gorgeous natural scenery with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, birdwatching and water sport activities. Lake Innes lies at its heart and is a picturesque setting for the historically significant Innes Ruins, which is a great place to learn all about early settlement and convict history in NSW. Book in advance to join a guided tour of the ruins. The lake is also a gorgeous backdrop for picnicking, birdwatching, walking or cycling. Or, get out on the water by kayaking or canoeing across it or enjoying a splash of swimming in its tranquil waters or spot of fishing from Perch Hole. There's an impressive array of wildlife to admire here too, including osprey, ducks and swans paddling on the lake and the kangaroos, wallabies and dingoes that can be seen throughout the reserve.

Port Macquarie NSW

9.0 km away

Dooragan National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Dooragan National Park

Dooragan National Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind, while enjoying the view over a casual picnic and watching the passing parade of wildlife. Located west of Laurieton - a pretty coastal village - the views from Dooragan Summit picnic area are exceptional, stretching far over Queens Lake and North Haven. Easy accessibility makes it a fantastic destination to bring guests and visitors to the region. Several of the park's walks, including Laurieton track, take you through spectacular blackbutt forests which mingle with enormous old stumps, reflecting the old days of timber harvesting in the park. The trails are buzzing with the sounds of the park's wildlife residents and, in summer, the echo of cicadas can almost be overpowering. Dooragan National Park is so diverse, it's not unusual to see colourful hang-gliders launching from the popular North Brother summit, or even wedding parties posing for photos on their big day.

North Brother NSW

9.6 km away

Innes Ruins

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Innes Ruins

Innes Ruins has a charming setting looking over Lake Innes and is an important remnant of early settlement days on the north coast of NSW. Built by Major Archibald Clunes Innes, it contains rich history about the settlement of NSW, convict labour and the culture of the 1800s. The Depression of the 1840s brought financial ruin to Innes, and the closure of Port Macquarie as a penal settlement deprived him of convict labour. Following his departure, the house was occupied by a number of people over time, but was derelict by the beginning of the 1900s. It subsequently deteriorated to its present state as a result of natural decay and vandalism. Today, the ruins are classified by the National Trust of Australia (NSW). Access to the site is by guided tour only.

Port Macquarie NSW

10 km away

Old Bottlebutt - one mighty big tree! — Image credit: Louise Faulkner

Natural Attractions

Burrawan State Forest

Located between Port Macquarie and Wauchope on the NSW mid-north coast, Burrawan State Forest is home to 'Old Bottlebutt', a grand and ancient Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) tree. The biggest recorded example of it's species in the world, Old Bottlebutt is unique in its shape, its large flared 'butt' having a massive girth of more than 16 metres just above its base. Old Bottlebutt is the main feature on a beautiful 600 metre loop walking track through remnant rainforest, beginning and ending at the Burrawan picnic area. Old Bottlebutt is a special place, with seating on the viewing deck for visitors to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. From the Pacific Highway heading north, take the Bago Road turn-off. Turn right onto Internal Break Road and follow the signs. Old Bottlebutt is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week including public holidays.

Herons Creek NSW

11 km away

Blackbutt picnic area

Natural Attractions

Blackbutt picnic area

Located near the northern end of Crowdy Bay National Park, just down from Dunbogan Beach, Blackbutt picnic area is a place full of surprises. Enter through a maze of sentry-like blackbutt and clumping banksia to find yourself in a grassy glade. It's just right for rolling out the rug and breaking open the picnic hamper. There's also plenty of room at the picnic area for the kids to play and adults to relax. Remember to take your swimmers or frisbee with you as the beach is just a short walk from the picnic area. Take a virtual tour of Blackbutt picnic area captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Diamond Head NSW

11 km away

Nancy Bird Walton Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Nancy Bird Walton Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Nancy Bird Walton was a pioneering Australian aviator and founder of the Australian Women Pilots' Association. Nancy forever changed how women were seen, both on the ground and in the skies.

Kew NSW

12 km away

Cheesetree picnic area

Natural Attractions

Cheesetree picnic area

Close to Crowdy Bay National Park's northern entrance, this grassy, wind-sheltered nook is nestled behind the dunes and offers plenty of space for the kids to run around. Only a short drive from Port Macquarie, Cheesetree picnic area is a perfect family destination for a day filled with swimming, fishing, surfing and walking the sandy white beaches. Curious about the name? The cheesetree is a native rainforest species named for its cheese-shaped fruit, a favourite for many of the park's resident birds. Keep your eyes peeled for glossy black cockatoos and swift parrots. After lunch, if you feel like exploring, head south along the beach towards the popular Diamond Head campground. From here, there's a range of walks from the Forest walking track to the more challenging Diamond Head loop walk. Take a virtual tour of Cheesetree picnic area captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Diamond Head NSW

13 km away

Fun in the trees at WildNets — Image credit: Forestry Corporation of NSW

Natural Attractions

Guulabaa - Place of Koala, Cowarra State Forest

Guulabaa means 'Place of Koala' in the local Gathang language. This visitor experience nestled within Cowarra State Forest on Biripi Country delivers that promise. Visitors are welcomed by The Big Koala, a 2.5-metre mural koala, part of the award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. Visitors follow the path to The Hub, a series of decks gently taking visitors into the forest canopy. The Hub views are incredible! Free for visitors. Seeking adventure? Have a WildNets experience! Gain a new sense of gravity bouncing from bouncy netted room to room (no safety gear required!) or tackle the more energetic tree-to-tree challenges. Pre-bookings via WildNets are recommended. Open daily. The world's first Wild Koala Breeding Facility - run by Koala Conservation Australia in partnership with Taronga Conservation Society and the Australian Museum - operates out of Guulabaa. Come visit koalas in the wild and learn more about the great work happening in koala conservation. Open daily. Bunyah Cafe, operated by Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council, offers coffee and tea, slushies, cold drinks, muffins, cakes and sandwiches. Open Thursday through Sundays, and daily in school holiday periods. Guulabaa Cathedral is a 150 church-pew-style seated area. Free for visitors. Bookings are available for weddings and large events. Bunyah Bilbay Cultural Centre is opening soon! See you at Guulabaa!

Lake Innes NSW

13 km away

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