The Port Macquarie Surfing History Association Ltd formed in March 2018 by a handful of "old surfing blokes" has been nurturing a vision to find a permanent site to house and preserve the region's rich and colourful surfing history.

Three years on, and four explored sites later, the association is now focused on making a site near Port Macquarie's Maritime Museum a reality.

Association president Alan Jeffrey said the association is hoping the site will be supported.

The association is now seeking endorsement on Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's new plan of management for Crown reserves which will incorporate both the Town Beach and Oxley Beach precincts.

The preferred site is a parcel of land behind the Maritime Museum cottages adjoining the tennis courts.

They are proposing a building that will complement the existing historic cottages.

"To date we appear to be complying with council's requirements for our inclusion," Mr Jeffrey said.

"Our next step in to engage with surrounding residents and land owners including the sporting groups that use Oxley Oval.

"Once we have completed our preliminary plans and designs for the proposed building, we plan to have discussions and meetings with the general community.

"Overall we are pleased with our current progress and the building design that we contemplate is to blend in with the existing historic cottages that we will adjoin."

Mr Jeffrey said the association would like to create an historic precinct for the area in collaboration with the Maritime Museum.

They are also hoping the museum can be a multi-purpose community venue and host surf education courses.

A tidal pool is also planned for the northern end of Oxley Beach and the popular Coastal Walk upgrade is now complete.

October will be the 40th anniversary of the Bird Rock Memorial surfing competition.

The Surfing Museum is planning on having a special exhibition to celebrate this important occasion.

The museum operates from a shopfront in Horton Street from 10.30am to 2.30pm Monday to Saturday.

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