North Shore Beach, Llandudno - April 2021
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North Shore Beach Port Macquarie

4.9
·23 reviews·, Australia

A stunning coastal escape with miles of driving beach, hidden natural wonders, and breathtaking sunrise camping spots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better for photos

CrowdLow
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North Shore Beach, Llandudno - April 2021

North Shore Beach Port Macquarie

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning coastal escape with miles of driving beach, hidden natural wonders, and breathtaking sunrise camping spots.

4.9
(23 reviews)

"Amazing that you are at the river one minute and then surprised by this beach just a mins drive down the road!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 4WD Permit Needed

A permit is required to drive on North Shore Beach. Plan ahead to get yours before heading out!

⚠️ Surf Safety First

The surf can be dangerous. Always supervise children closely and be aware of currents.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Beach Drive

Expansive Beach Drive

North Shore Beach

Experience the thrill of driving your 4WD along a long, clear stretch of Pacific coastline. A permit is required for vehicles.

Hidden Rockslide & Waterfall

Hidden Rockslide & Waterfall

Near North Shore Beach

Discover a secret spot with a natural rockslide and refreshing waterfall – a perfect adventure for the daring.

Sunrise Camping

Sunrise Camping

Tuppenny Rd, Port Macquarie

Camp overnight for an unforgettable sunrise view over the coast. Ideal for van life and solo travelers seeking scenic spots.

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Planning Your Visit

Beach Access & Permits

North Shore Beach is a stunning stretch of sand, but access can be tricky. While driving on the beach is free for bikes, a permit is required for 4WD vehicles. The access road can be rough, especially after rain, so be prepared for potholes and water holes.

Surf Safety & Kids

The surf at North Shore Beach can be dangerous, and vehicular traffic on the sand can be hard to hear over the waves. Exercise extreme caution with young children due to these factors. Consider the calmer, harbour-facing Balmoral Beach for families if you're seeking a more relaxed swim.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Perfect for swimming & sunbathing
Crowd
High
When
Winter mornings
Why
Crisp air, stunning sunrises
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

North Shore, Port Macquarie. #floods2021
@tahls.mccann
22.1K likes • 431.8K views

🚗 4WD Permit Needed

A permit is required to drive on North Shore Beach. Plan ahead to get yours before heading out! Reddit

⚠️ Surf Safety First

The surf can be dangerous. Always supervise children closely and be aware of currents. Reddit

KEEP THIS SECRET 🤫 Hidden rockslide, waterfall and Cliff Jump in the Mid North Coast of NSW! Port Macquarie📍#australia
@zacfreuden
20.7K likes • 261.8K views
Talented local surfer Kai McKenzie is lucky to be alive after being mauled by a shark off North Shore Beach near Port Macquarie. #9News
9newssydney
12.5K likes • 394.7K views

🤫 Secret Rockslide Spot

Ask locals or search online for directions to a hidden rockslide and waterfall for an adventurous dip. TikTok

🏕️ Scenic Campsites

Consider camping at Tuppenny Road for incredible sunrise views. Perfect for van life! TikTok

A young surfer has lost a leg to a 3-metre shark on the mid-north coast and has been airlifted to hospital in Newcastle. He was mauled this morning at North Shore Beach a remote location near Port Macquarie. 7NEWS at 6pm. #SharkAttack #7NEWS
7newssyd
2.1K likes • 102.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 4WD Permit Needed

A permit is required to drive on North Shore Beach. Plan ahead to get yours before heading out! Reddit

⚠️ Surf Safety First

The surf can be dangerous. Always supervise children closely and be aware of currents. Reddit

🤫 Secret Rockslide Spot

Ask locals or search online for directions to a hidden rockslide and waterfall for an adventurous dip. TikTok

🏕️ Scenic Campsites

Consider camping at Tuppenny Road for incredible sunrise views. Perfect for van life! TikTok

⛴️ Fun Ferry Ride

Catch the car ferry to access North Shore for a small fee. It's a fun part of the adventure! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(23 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique experience of driving on the beach and the stunning coastal views. The car ferry adds to the adventure, and nearby hidden spots offer extra exploration. However, some find the access road rough, and the surf can be dangerous, requiring caution, especially with children.

"Amazing that you are at the river one minute and then surprised by this beach just a mins drive down the road! We accidentally found it while exploring North Shore. Great view of Port Mac and the Car Ferry ride is fun to catch to get there. $5 per vehicle each way"

Rachel Schindler

"Allow 4WD on this gorgeous beach.. (need to get a permit) long stretch of clear blue water of the Pacific Ocean. You can take your bike here as well all is free."

Dinh Vuong

"Lovely place. Wish we could live there"

Janet moir

What People Like

Beach driving experience
Scenic coastal views
Hidden rockslide

What People Dislike

Rough access road
Dangerous surf
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can access North Shore Beach by taking the car ferry from Port Macquarie. The ferry costs $5 per vehicle each way. The access road, Pt Omer Rd, can be rough with potholes, especially after rain, so a 4WD is recommended for beach driving. Reddit

Driving to North Shore Beach itself is straightforward via the car ferry. However, the access road (Pt Omer Rd) can be challenging with large potholes and water holes after rain. Driving on the beach requires a permit for 4WD vehicles. Reddit

While you can take a regular car to the general North Shore area via the ferry, driving directly onto the beach is best suited for 4WD vehicles due to sand conditions and the rough access road. Reddit

The car ferry is a convenient and fun way to reach North Shore. It operates regularly and costs approximately $5 per vehicle each way, offering great views of Port Macquarie. Reddit

Yes, locals and travelers have shared tips about a hidden rockslide and waterfall near North Shore Beach, offering a unique adventurous experience. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a permit is required if you plan to drive a 4WD vehicle on North Shore Beach. Bikes can ride on the beach for free. Reddit

The car ferry to North Shore costs around $5 per vehicle for a one-way trip. It's a small price for easy access and a scenic ride. Reddit

There are no direct entry fees for North Shore Beach itself, but a permit is needed for 4WD vehicles to drive on the sand. The car ferry also has a fee. Reddit

The car ferry generally operates daily, but it's advisable to check the latest schedule as hours can vary. It's a frequent service, making access convenient. Reddit

Ferry tickets are typically purchased at the time of travel. It's a pay-as-you-go service, so no advance booking is usually necessary. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy driving on the beach (with a permit for 4WD), swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the coastline. There are also hidden gems like rockslides and waterfalls nearby. TikTokReddit

The surf at North Shore Beach can be dangerous, so swimmers should exercise extreme caution. It's not always ideal for casual swimming, especially with children. Reddit

North Shore Beach is a more natural and remote location, so facilities are limited. It's best to come prepared with your own food, water, and any other necessities. Reddit

While camping directly on the beach might be restricted, there are scenic camping spots nearby, such as at Tuppenny Road, offering great sunrise views. TikTok

North Shore Beach is a long, open Pacific beach known for 4WD access and potentially rough surf. Balmoral Beach, on the other hand, is harbour-facing, calmer, and more suitable for families and swimming. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the expansive coastline, 4WD vehicles on the sand, dramatic surf, and beautiful sunrises if you camp nearby. The hidden rockslide also makes for unique photos. TikTok+1

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour offer the most dramatic lighting. Weekday mornings can also provide clearer shots without crowds. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local aviation rules and any specific restrictions for the area before flying your drone. TikTok

The vastness of the beach itself is iconic. The car ferry crossing and the views back towards Port Macquarie are also great photographic subjects. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach. If you're interested in wildlife or surf action, a telephoto lens can be useful. A sturdy tripod is helpful for sunrise/sunset shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

North Shore Beach offers a unique adventure, but safety is paramount for families. The surf can be dangerous, so it's crucial to supervise children very closely and be aware of strong currents. Reddit The presence of vehicles on the beach also requires extra vigilance, as they can be hard to hear over the waves. Reddit For a more relaxed and safer swimming experience, consider nearby Balmoral Beach, which is harbour-facing and has calm waters perfect for younger children. TikTok The car ferry ride itself can be an exciting part of the outing for kids! Reddit

🚗 Adventure Seekers & 4WD Enthusiasts

For those with a 4WD, North Shore Beach is a dream destination. You can drive for miles along the coast, enjoying the freedom of the open sand. Remember to secure your beach driving permit beforehand. Reddit The access road can be a bit of a challenge, adding to the adventure, but it's well worth it for the experience. Reddit Don't miss the chance to explore the rumored hidden rockslide and waterfall for an adrenaline rush and a unique photo opportunity. TikTok

🏕️ Campers & Van Lifers

If you're looking for a memorable camping spot, Tuppenny Road near North Shore Beach is a fantastic choice. It's renowned for offering spectacular sunrise views over the ocean, making it an ideal location for those living the van life or solo travelers seeking a scenic overnight stay. TikTok Waking up to the sound of the waves and a breathtaking dawn sky is an experience that truly captures the essence of coastal living on the road. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating North Shore: Access & Adventure

North Shore Beach in Port Macquarie offers a unique blend of accessibility and wild beauty. Reaching this stunning coastal stretch involves a scenic car ferry ride across the river, a fun experience in itself that costs around $5 per vehicle each way. Reddit Once across, the beach opens up into a long, expansive shoreline perfect for driving. However, it's crucial to note that driving on the beach requires a permit for 4WD vehicles. The access road, Pt Omer Rd, can be quite challenging, especially after rain, featuring significant potholes and water holes, making a 4WD highly recommended for beach access. Reddit

Beyond the drive, North Shore is a gateway to adventure. Travelers have discovered hidden gems like a secret rockslide and waterfall, offering a refreshing and exciting detour from the main beach. TikTok For those seeking an overnight experience, camping at spots like Tuppenny Road provides breathtaking sunrise views, making it a popular choice for van lifers and solo travelers looking for an immersive nature experience. TikTok It's important to be aware that while beautiful, the surf can be dangerous, so caution is advised, particularly for families. Reddit

Safety First: Understanding Beach Conditions

While North Shore Beach is a picturesque destination, visitors must prioritize safety due to its natural conditions. The surf here can be powerful and unpredictable, making it potentially dangerous for casual swimming. Reddit Travelers have noted the need for extreme caution, especially when children are present, as the waves can be strong and currents a concern. Reddit

Another significant safety consideration is vehicular traffic on the beach. The sound of the surf can easily mask the noise of approaching vehicles, posing a risk to beachgoers, particularly those with young children. Reddit It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from any vehicles on the sand. For those seeking a calmer swimming experience, alternatives like Balmoral Beach, which is harbour-facing and has no waves, are recommended. TikTok

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