3 Days Exploring Camden Haven, Wauchope and Port Macquarie
If you want a trip that gives you more than one version of the coast, this part of the Mid North Coast makes it easy. In one short break, you can spend time on the Camden Haven foreshore, head into the hinterland around Wauchope, and finish with the coastal walk, cafés and waterfront dining of Port Macquarie.
Day 1: Camden Haven - river views, village stops and the Beach to Beach Shared Path
Start in Camden Haven, where the pace is slower and the water is never far away. The Beach to Beach Shared Path links North Haven, Laurieton and Dunbogan along an 11-kilometre route between the North Haven breakwall and Pilot Beach, and Council describes it as an accessible shared pathway designed to provide an easy and safe way to get around.
Begin at North Haven, then follow the river toward Laurieton. If you are walking or riding the path, the appeal is not just the distance. It is the way it carries you through the villages and along the water without needing to think too hard about where to go next.
Laurieton is the natural place to stop for lunch or a longer break. The town sits at the foot of North Brother Mountain and is described on the destination site as the home base for the local fishing fleet, with the fish co-op one of the stand-out drawcards.
For something casual, Laurieton Seafood is an easy fit after a morning on the path, and if you want to sit down for something different, Blue Buffalo Café brings a stronger point of difference with South Vietnamese food in the centre of town. If you are after a simple coffee stop, The Jetty Café at Laurieton Services Club is another current option.
From Laurieton, continue through to Dunbogan. The destination material describes Dunbogan as the quieter side of the inlet, with sheltered swimming beaches and the traditional boatshed atmosphere that gives this part of Camden Haven its character.
That makes Dunbogan Boat Shed a sensible final stop for the day, especially if you want coffee by the water. If you would rather finish with something more substantial, The Point Cafe and Takeaway is another named option in the Dunbogan area.
If you have time before heading back, drive up to North Brother Mountain. It is the best way to understand how the river, villages and coastline all fit together.