Moorland, NSW

Local Attractions

What's nearby

Explore the Mid-North Coast

Forest Springs sits at the heart of one of NSW's most beautiful and underrated regions. From pristine national park beaches to ancient rainforests, whale watching headlands, and charming coastal towns — there's no shortage of reasons to stay longer.

Beaches & Water

Crowdy Bay National Park & Beach

15 min

One of the Mid-North Coast's most pristine and uncrowded beaches, set within a national park. Great for swimming, surfing, and long walks on white sand.

💡 Go early morning — you'll often have it to yourself.

North Beach, Harrington

20 min

A calm, sheltered beach at the mouth of the Manning River — perfect for families, paddleboarding, or a lazy afternoon swim.

💡 The Harrington foreshore has a great little café too.

Town Beach, Port Macquarie

30 min

A popular patrolled beach right in Port Macquarie township, with the ocean baths next door. Easy parking and facilities.

💡 The ocean pool is magic at high tide.

Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie

35 min

A long stretch of white sand backed by native bush, often spotted with dolphins offshore. One of the most beautiful beaches in the region.

💡 Walk south from Flynn's Beach for a quieter spot.

Nature & Walks

Coopernook State Forest

0 min

The cabin backs directly onto Coopernook State Forest — thousands of acres of native bushland accessible from your doorstep. Wallabies, koalas, and birdlife are regularly spotted.

💡 Dusk is the best time to spot wildlife on the property.

Ellenborough Falls

1 hr

One of the longest single-drop waterfalls in the southern hemisphere at 200m. Set in the hinterland above Taree — a truly spectacular sight after rain.

💡 The walk to the base is steep but worth it.

Crowdy Head Lighthouse

25 min

A scenic headland walk to a heritage lighthouse with sweeping views up and down the coast. Great for whale watching in season (June–November).

💡 Whale watching season runs June to November.

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre

30 min

A beautiful elevated boardwalk through coastal rainforest right in Port Macquarie. A peaceful, educational walk suitable for all fitness levels.

💡 Open daily — allow 1–2 hours.

Towns

Port Macquarie

30 min

The region's main hub — great cafés, restaurants, farmers markets, and a beautiful foreshore. Worth a half-day visit for coffee, lunch, and a walk along the waterfront.

💡 The Sunday farmers' market on the foreshore is excellent.

Taree

30 min

The regional centre on the Manning River — good for stocking up on supplies, local produce, and a proper pub meal. The Manning River is lovely at sunset.

💡 Manning River views from the Bridge are beautiful at dusk.

Harrington

20 min

A sleepy coastal village at the Manning River mouth. Fishermen's wharves, a great pub, and a relaxed seaside pace. Perfect for lunch or fish & chips by the water.

💡 The Harrington Hotel does a great parmi.

Laurieton & Camden Haven

25 min

A charming inlet town with brilliant cafés, North Brother Mountain lookout, and calm river beaches. One of the most underrated stops on the Mid-North Coast.

💡 The Brothers Brewhouse is a favourite local brewery.

Wildlife & Culture

Koala Hospital, Port Macquarie

30 min

The world's first and longest-running koala hospital — free to visit, with resident koalas in outdoor enclosures. A genuinely special experience, especially for kids.

💡 Feeding time is 3pm daily — arrive early for a good spot.

Billabong Zoo, Port Macquarie

35 min

A boutique wildlife park with koala, wombat, and reptile encounters, plus big cats. Great for a morning out with the family.

💡 Book koala encounters online in advance.

Whale Watching

25–35 min

Between June and November, humpback whales migrate along the coast. Headlands at Crowdy Head, Lighthouse Beach, and Port Macquarie foreshore are great free vantage points.

💡 Boat tours run from Port Macquarie marina during peak season.

Koolah Creek Highlands

45 min

A stunning highland property in the hinterland — breathtaking scenery, lush green pastures, and a true escape into nature. Follow their Instagram for a taste of what's up there.

💡 Follow @koolah.creek.highlands on Instagram for updates and bookings.

Wild Nets

20 min

A local adventure activity centre offering ocean kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and guided coastal tours. Perfect for a half-day of active fun on the water.

💡 Book ahead in peak season — sessions fill up quickly.

Ready to explore?

Book your stay at Forest Springs and use it as your base for the Mid-North Coast.

Book on Airbnb