About Oxley Beach

A naturally significant stretch of the Birpai coast

Oxley Beach forms part of the traditional Country of the Birpai People, the Original Custodians of the Greater Port Macquarie (traditionally known as Guruk) region. For thousands of years, this coastline has provided food, shelter, cultural connection and places of gathering for Birpai people, whose enduring relationship with land and sea continues today. The Greater Port Macquarie region has been occupied by the Birpai for more than 60,000 years, making this coastline one of enduring cultural significance.

Situated just south of Town Beach, Oxley Beach is one of Port Macquarie's most natural beaches. Despite its central location, it has retained much of its undeveloped coastal character, with sweeping ocean views, exposed rock platforms, native vegetation and an open sandy shoreline. Nestled within a natural coastal amphitheatre of cliffs and headlands, the beach's geography has remained largely unchanged. Access is provided via existing walking tracks and stairways that follow the natural landform, meaning the beach is not universally accessible due to its steep topography and rugged coastal setting.

Much of the land is zoned C2 Environmental Conservation, recognising its high environmental, scenic and conservation values and the importance of protecting its natural character. The amphitheatre-like landform, native vegetation and largely undeveloped foreshore contribute to the sense of place that distinguishes Oxley Beach from more urbanised beaches.

The beach also forms part of the internationally recognised Port Macquarie Coastal Tract, a coastline of exceptional geological significance. The exposed rock platforms preserve evidence of approximately 500 million years of Earth's history, providing one of Australia's most important records of the tectonic evolution of eastern Australia. These geological features continue to support scientific research, education and geotourism while contributing to the distinctive character of the coastline enjoyed by the community today.

Part of the iconic Port Macquarie Coastal Walk

Oxley Beach is a key section of the renowned Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, a 9-kilometre walking route linking Town Green to Tacking Point Lighthouse. The beach and adjoining reserve are popular stopping points for walkers, runners and visitors exploring one of New South Wales' most scenic coastal experiences. Along this section of the walk, visitors enjoy panoramic ocean views, native coastal vegetation and opportunities for whale watching during the annual migration season.

 A place enjoyed by the community

Oxley Beach is valued by locals and visitors alike for its relatively natural and open character. It supports a wide variety of recreational, cultural and community activities throughout the year, including:

• Walking and running along the Coastal Walk

• Exercising and outdoor fitness

• Dog walking at the area's designated on-leash dog beach

• Swimming and ocean recreation

• Rockpooling and beachcombing

• Recreational fishing

• Diving and snorkelling

• Aboriginal cultural activities and connection to Country

• Family picnics and barbecues

• Community gatherings

• Wedding ceremonies and photography

• Memorial and ash-scattering ceremonies

• Quiet reflection, nature appreciation and wildlife observation

The adjacent Oxley Beach Reserve provides picnic shelters, electric barbecues, seating and open grassed areas, making it a popular destination for families and community gatherings.

Natural coastal environment

The beach is characterised by its sandy shoreline, rocky headlands and intertidal rock platforms, which support a diverse range of marine life and provide opportunities for nature-based recreation and environmental education. The surrounding reserve and coastline contribute to the scenic landscape that has become synonymous with Port Macquarie's coastal identity.

Together with neighbouring beaches, headlands and reserves, Oxley Beach forms part of an interconnected coastal landscape that attracts residents and visitors seeking opportunities to experience nature close to the town centre.

 A place of lasting value

For many people, Oxley Beach is valued not for built infrastructure, but for the experiences it already provides. Its combination of cultural heritage, natural coastal landscape, recreational opportunities and community use makes it a widely enjoyed public coastal space.

Whether walking the Coastal Walk, spending time with family, connecting with Birpai heritage, enjoying the ocean, or simply sitting quietly overlooking the sea, Oxley Beach continues to serve as an important shared place for the Port Macquarie community and its visitors.