Popular NSW beach evacuated after explosive washes ashore

The army has been brought in to a popular NSW beach after what was feared to be a bomb washed ashore.

A large section of Lighthouse Beach in Port Macquarie was evacuated and an exclusion zone was put in place earlier today.

But on closer inspection, it was concluded the device was an old naval flare.

READ MORE: Two killed while exchanging crash details on Sydney bridge

"Initial inquiries have indicated that it appears to have been in the water for many years," a statement from NSW Police read.

"The item poses no risk and will be further examined by the ADF."

"Members of the public are reminded not to approach any suspicious objects they may locate and to immediately contact Triple Zero."

While flares are not considered to be bombs, they are a pyrotechnic device and can be very dangerous.

READ MORE: What we know about Kim Jong-un's rarely seen children

Lighthouse Beach is popular with tourists and locals alike.

The nine-kilometre stretch of sand south of the tourist town is a common destination for surfers and fishermen. 

It is also the site of Port Macquarie's famous oceanside camel rides.