Overview
Port Macquarie spreads a run of surf along the coast, from short rocky beaches in town to the main event out at the Hastings River. Flagstaff, Flynns, and the beaches out by the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre can all have their day when the swell and wind line up. The standout is the north breakwall of the Hastings River, where rights peel down a triangular bar trapped against the wall, with peaks stretching as far as you can see to the north.
When It Works
The break works over sand and throws right-handers, and it is very consistent, so there is usually something to ride. It draws swell from northeast through east-southeast to south (NE-ESE-S), with southeast (SE) swell the best match. The breakwall handles big swells and stays workable across a wide window, usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 5.5 m / 18 ft. The rocky town beaches like Flagstaff and Flynns come alive in northeast-to-southeast swells paired with any westerly wind.
Wind and Tide
Look for southwest (SW) offshore wind to clean it up. It can work through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is friendly, beginner-level surf, so it suits surfers still finding their feet. Expect a busy lineup when it works, especially along the breakwall where the crowds gather with the swell.
Access
Reaching the waves north of town means a car ferry across the Hastings River, and once you are on the other side there are no facilities, so come prepared. A 4WD is handy for getting to the peaks further north. There is camping nearby, plus a car park with free parking and roadside parking.
