The free lunch, for individuals and families, the lonely and destitute, broke all records this year leaving organisers Max and Karen Davies in awe of the Hastings community's willingness to give to those in need.

Held on Town Beach, volunteers began arriving not long after the sun peeked over the horizon to erect marquees, prepare food and lay tables.

By 7am, the festive spirit was alive and well with volunteers singing Christmas carols and laughter setting the scene for what was described by Mrs Davies as 'simply an amazing day'.

"This is not about an event, it's about hearts. And it continually grows every year because of the family atmosphere," Mrs Davies said.

"Everyone was singing in the kitchen, we had Santa, the kids were having fun, everyone enjoyed being made to feel like they were a part of it - that's Christmas by the Beach. Everyone who volunteered or same for lunch were in awe of the feeling that had been created. It touches people so deeply - Christmas is different after you've been a part of this."

Mrs Davis could not thank her dedicated and committed team of volunteers enough saying while many of them could barely lift a finger by the end of the day, not one of them would have exchanged the Christmas Day experience of giving for anything.

"Volunteers come back year after year. Many of them are lonely too and it is just nice to sit and listen to other peoples' stories. Everyone is made to feel welcome instead of being left caught alone."

In its eleventh year, Christmas by the Beach was borne when the Port City Church's dynamic duo threw the doors of their own home to anyone wanting company and a good meal on Christmas Day.

Christmas on the Beach is supported by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council with many local businesses donating food, services and manpower to make the day happen. 

"At the end of the day we all walk away as friends," Mrs Davies said.