Port Macquarie is a coastal sanctuary known for its secluded beaches, rich rainforests, and delectable dining scene.
Located on the mid-north coast of NSW, it offers the perfect balance of laid-back holiday fun and adventurous activities that set your heart racing. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic retreat full of beach walks and long lunches, or a family planning an unforgettable trip complete with animal encounters and surf lessons, there’s something here for you.
Don’t forget to check out the amazing accomodation options featured in this article too, as their prime locations mean they book out quickly.
Oceans await in Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie is home to 17 different beaches, each with their own unique offerings.
Catering to all levels of surfing experience, Port Macquarie Surf School is a local institution. Its programs take place at both Flynns Beach and Town Beach, meaning wave sizes are chosen to suit your confidence. From daily group lessons where hands-on coaches help you catch your first waves, to the Surf Groms junior development program helping kids ages 5-12 to try surfing for the first time, there’s something for everyone. Port Macquarie Surf School is the longest running surf school in the area, so you won’t find anyone better to get you riding waves like a pro.
For adventurous spirits, any tour with Port Jet Cruises is bound to get your heart racing. Explore the coastline on one of the fastest commercial boats in NSW, when you book an Ocean Blast Fun Ride. This daring tour includes a 40 minute ride from Port Macquarie’s North Shore to Lighthouse Beach. On the way, you will try hair raising turns and ride over giant waves, speeding as fast as 900 Hp. Make sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles along the way!
Port Jet Cruises also run a nine hectare jet ski park in the Hastings River, where you can hire a 130 hp jet ski and zoom through the water. Don’t worry – you’ll always be supervised by qualified staff.
If you’re looking for somewhere to shred waves by yourself, Town Beach regularly reports swell up to 2.5 metres. It’s only a short walk from the Port Macquarie CBD, with parking, shower and picnic facilities on shore.
For those travelling with small children, there are plenty of beaches and waterways that provide a relaxed atmosphere. Shelly Beach is a long stretch of white sand, surrounded by breathtaking rainforests. The best place for kids to swim in the natural tidal pool, which is very shallow at low tide and perfect for splashing around. Make sure to pack a picnic, as there are several shaded tables and barbecue facilities just waiting to be used.
To stay right near the water, check out Mantra The Observatory. This four-star hotel is seconds from Town Beach, offering an indoor pool, two restaurants, and a sauna. All rooms include a patio or terrace, meaning you can enjoy an evening drink while soaking up panoramic views of the ocean. The apartment-style accomodation makes you feel right at home, with all the best Port Macquarie offerings at your fingertips.
Get in touch with your wild side
Ever wanted to ride camels along one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches? Well, now you can.
On an adventure with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris, you are greeted by the friendly team, who introduce you to their calm and gentle camels. Once you hop aboard your new best friend, you will be led along the sands of Lighthouse Beach, while your team leader delights with stories and facts about camels. There’s no bookings necessary here – simply show up any time between 9:30 am and 1pm (or 2pm on school holidays).
For those wishing to stay amongst the action, check out Lighthouse Beach Holiday Village. Just 300 metres from the shores of Lighthouse Beach, this village includes an outdoor pool, barbecue facilities, and a playground for the little ones. Here, you’re invited to stay in a private bungalow or chalet with a TV and fully equipped kitchenette. It’s holiday luxury without breaking the bank.
For even more family-friendly fun, head to Wildnets Adventure Park. This eco-friendly spot is all about running, bouncing and playing on bouncy nets stretched between trees high above the forest floor – basically it’s a treetop playground! There are three levels of nets to choose from, each suited to different age groups and filled with activities and inflatables. There’s also a high ropes course with over 100 challenges including zip-lines, rope ladders and bridges, rising up to 20 metres from the ground.
Plus, the team at Wildnets Adventure Park is dedicated to supporting koala conservation and rehabilitation by partnering with local ecological and environmental organisations. Make sure to bring the whole team along, as it’s perfect for the young and young at heart.
Sea Acres National Park is an easy 9 minute drive or a gentle walk from the centre of Port Macquarie. Combining the crashing waves of the beach with the towering trees of the rainforest, you’re well and truly surrounded by nature here. Start your visit at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, where you can learn all about its Aboriginal heritage, and peruse regular exhibitions from local artists.
Then, join a Sea Acres Aboriginal culture tour and walk along the rainforest boardwalk with an Aboriginal ranger as you learn all about bush tucker, medicine plants, and the longstanding connection between Aboriginal people and the land. This area was a major resource for the Biripai people, who made weapons from the python tree (the second hardest wood in the world) and used the walking stick palm as a travel aid.
While you’re visiting the rainforest, keep an eye out for rainforest birds and animals, and make sure to snap a photo surrounded by the beauty of Australian nature.
To stay beside this incredible rainforest, check in to Azura Beach House B&B. This four-star hotel is 650 metres from the Rainforest Centre, offering a garden, terrace and outdoor dining area. Each room boasts garden views, and all the modern amenities you could want on your holiday. Plus, a complimentary airport shuttle takes the hard work out of planning your holiday.
If animal encounters are your thing, head to Billabong Zoo, a koala and wildlife park that looks after more than 220 animals across 10 acres of land. When visiting, you have the chance to experience a one-on-one encounter with some of the most amazing animals in the world, including meerkats, koalas and snakes. You can even feed two cheetah brothers, and put your nerves to the test. While you’re exploring the grounds, stop by one of several daily zoo talks, as keepers introduce you to their favourite animals.
Dine and drink in Port Macquarie
Despite being known for its abundance of outdoor offerings, Port Macquarie is also a foodie hotspot. Wander in any direction in the CBD, and you will come across award-winning restaurants, laid-back breweries, and charming cafes.
Not only does The Stunned Mullet have a Good Food Guide Chefs Hat, but it is also a culinary landmark known for its delicious dishes and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant looks out over the waters of Town Beach, with large glass windows providing plenty of natural light. The menu is inspired by modern Australian flavours, with standouts including poached yellowtail kingfish and tajima wagyu sirloin steak, as well as a kids menu for the little ones.
But what really sets The Stunned Mullet apart is its wine list, curated with the best drops from Australia, New Zealand, and the world. In fact, it has received the Gourmet Traveller Wine List of the Year’s highest rating every year since 2018. If you’re not sure what to order, sommelier Tom Riedl and The Stunned Mullet Owner Lou Perri have spent years learning the subtleties of wine, and are happy to share their expertise.
For a cosy and relaxed dining experience, check out Black Duck Brewery. All beers are made and packaged in house, with a rotating list of eight specials available on tap. Events and unique offerings are available throughout the week, including live music and wood-fired pizza every Friday, to barbecue lunches on Saturday. Some recent brews include its Brainfog NEIPA, Phoenix export stout with 7.5 percent ABV, and alcoholic ginger beer. For a catchup with friends or a date night in town, it doesn’t get better than this.
To discover the six most unique events in town, click here.
Rex flies to Port Macquarie! Head to the website or check out the route map below for more details.
