Senior lifeguard coordinator Grant Hudson said Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's primary beach safety message "No flags, no swim" needs to be heeded.

He said it is important for beachgoers to recognise the dangers of swimming at an unpatrolled beach or swimming outside of the patrolled area.

Mr Hudson said the conditions at local beaches have been extremely good in recent months and he fears beachgoers may be growing complacent.

A number of rescues in recent weeks show how important it is for people to treat the ocean with respect.

"Even if the swell is really small you need to do the right thing," Mr Hudson said.

"Situations can change in a matter of seconds in the surf and all beachgoers need to be aware of current conditions."

Beachgoers should read any signs on the beach and get used to the conditions before venturing out too far in the water.

Speak with council lifeguards or volunteer lifesavers if you have any questions about surf conditions, Mr Hudson said.

Council lifeguards will patrol Town Beach Port Macquarie seven days a week from 9am until 4.30pm; Flynns Beach on weekdays from 9am until 4.30pm; Lighthouse Beach, Rainbow Beach at Bonny Hills and North Haven on weekdays from 9am and 4pm.

Volunteers from the Surf Life Saving clubs will patrol Flynns, Lighthouse, Rainbow and North Haven beaches on weekends and public holidays.

Volunteer patrol hours may vary but will generally be from 9am until 4pm (except for North Haven, 9am until 2pm).

The patrol season for council and surf life saving clubs will end on Sunday, April 27.