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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

0.3 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

0.9 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

2.1 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

2.2 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

2.3 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

2.4 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

3.6 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

3.7 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

3.7 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

3.7 km away

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

3.8 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

3.8 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

3.9 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

4.0 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

5.5 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

5.5 km away

Geebung picnic area

Natural Attractions

Geebung picnic area

Nestled into the dunes, Geebung picnic area is a perfect beachside spot just north of popular Diamond Head campground, in Crowdy Bay National Park. Only a short stroll to the white crescent sands of Dunbogan Beach, spend the day swimming, surfing and fishing on the beautiful Mid-North coast. After you've worked up an appetite, stroll back and tuck into a picnic feast in the shade under the trees. The surrounding heath erupts in colour during spring with wildflowers and delicate ground orchids. The area is famous for Christmas bells in the summer months. If you're after a walk, head south along the beach to Diamond Head loop walk. Keep an eye out for whales during their annual migration as humpbacks, and occasionally, the much rarer southern right whale, can be spotted. Take a virtual tour of Geebung picnic area captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Diamond Head NSW

6.6 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

6.9 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

7.3 km away

Diamond Head Beach — Image credit: Destination Barrington Coast

Natural Attractions

Diamond Head Beach

Located at the northern tip of the Barrington Coast, you will find the beautiful Diamond Head Beach and its iconic rock formations. Many eastern grey kangaroos call this beach and the neighbouring campsite home. It's common to see them skipping across the white sand, catching some shade under the beach vegetation or even taking a dip in the ocean to cool off. The Diamond Head Loop Track is accessible from the beach and stretches across the rocky headland south to Kylies Beach. Pack your camera for some breathtaking views! Diamond Head Beach is 4WD accessible from the campsite in the south and Dunbogan in the north. A NSW National Parks Pass is required to drive on the beach. The Barrington Coast is famous for its forests, waterways and beaches as well as its 15 national parks and 63 state forests, nature reserves and conservation areas. Their fertile lands are watered by 38 rivers including the only double delta in the southern hemisphere and the state's tallest single drop waterfall at 200 metres. The Barrington Coast also enjoys a pristine triple lakes system and over 190 kilometres of absolutely stunning coastline.

Diamond Head NSW

7.6 km away

Diamond Head Loop Walk — Image credit: Photo: Debby McGerty

Natural Attractions

Diamond Head Loop Walk

Diamond Head loop walk is the ideal introduction to the splendour of Crowdy Bay National Park, near Port Macquarie. Starting at Diamond Head campground, you'll link up with Headland walking track and Forest walking track for a walk packed with visual delights, which highlights why this park is a national treasure. Passing through heath and forests of paperbark and swamp mahogany, pause to take in the exceptional views at Kylie’s lookout and scan the waters for dolphins. It's thought that Diamond Head draws its name from the quartz crystals in the cliffs and you might see them sparkling in the sunlight. The headland rises dramatically and offers panoramic views across Crowdy Bay, north to Perpendicular Point and south to Crowdy Head. In between are superb sweeps of golden sand, and rising out of the lush forested hinterland, behind you, are the majestic Three Brothers mountains.

Diamond Head NSW

7.6 km away

Mermaid Lookout Track — Image credit: Photo: Debby McGerty/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Mermaid Lookout Track

Mermaid lookout track takes you on a tour of Crowdy Bay National Park's secret surprises. Secluded coves, sweeping beaches and mountain views await you on this short hike. Cross the footbridge over the creek at Diamond Head and wander up this short walking track to the lookout. Along the shore is a series of rocky coves just perfect for a mermaid’s afternoon nap. Enjoy spectacular views across the crescent of Dunbogan beach to North Brother mountain and look out for Christmas bells blooming among the grasslands in summer. It’s also a great spot for watching whales on their annual migration along the coast.

Diamond Head NSW

7.6 km away

Kendall Craft Co Operative

Shopping and Markets

Kendall Craft Co Operative

Kendall Craft co-op is located in Kendall's village, on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. It is situated within the railway building which is also a heritage-listed attraction for the train buffs. Put the shop on your must-visit list when in the area, five minutes off the Pacific Highway at Kew exit makes a leisurely stop on a busy day also. You will find an amazing array of quality home-created items, nothing is mass-produced and everything is home-created by the friendly local members who also staff the shop. Artwork, gift cards, pottery, condiments, jewellery, knitted, crocheted and stitched pieces, toys, something for almost everyone. Arrive in your car, off the train or via the bus, and they are easy to find.

Kendall NSW

8.8 km away

Kylies Hut — Image credit: OEH

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Kylies Hut

While enjoying a day trip or overnight stay in Crowdy Bay National Park, Kylies Hut is well worth a visit. Set in a shady glen surrounded by coastal forest, you'll pass paperbarks and sheoaks along Metcalfes walking track on your way to the hut. Local farmer Ernie Metcalfe built the rustic hut for the novelist and journalist Kylie Tennant in the late 1960s. With a single room, verandah and stone fireplace, its appearance harked back to a time when Crowdy Bay was wild coastal heathland and swamp. It was during Kylie's time here that she wrote The Man on the Headland, a novel influenced by her years spent living in the natural beauty of Crowdy Bay. Sadly, the original hut was destroyed in the 2019-20 bushfires that burned through much of the area. It was reconstructed in 2022 with the help of a local builder skilled in traditional woodwork techniques, to preserve this important piece of history. After you've explored the hut and surrounds, there's plenty to see and do nearby. Picnic in the shade of the paperbarks or take a dip at Kylies Beach.

Crowdy Bay National Park NSW

9.1 km away

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