Hang around the CBD or take a day trip from Port Macquarie to experience the best of the mid-North Coast NSW region.
Visit Australia’s only Koala Hospital, which treats around 250 sick and injured koalas a year. You can do your bit by dropping into the centre for a tour, donating, adopting a wild koala or buying a eucalypt for their food. Arrive at 3pm for their free “feed, walk and talk” tour. Entry and self-guided tours are free all day. Picture: Dallas Kilponen/Destination NSW
Watch the annual migration from the coast or book onto a boat tour to get up close. The best time to see them here is in autumn and spring. Picture: Remy Brand
Whether you’re after a wine tasting tipple at its cellar door or a playful afternoon in its giant maze, Bago Maze and Winery has got your back. This family farm has one of the largest mazes in the world, and it’s advisable to explore this lilly pilly wonder before you get too stuck into the winery’s drops. Picture: Destination NSW
Head up into the tree canopy with the Sea Acres Rainforest walk, which starts at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre. You can do this 1.3km walk either as part of a guided tour or as a self-guided walk. Picture: Destination NSW
Go for a camel safari on Lighthouse Beach. They don’t take bookings - just rock up. Picture Destination NSW
Make a beeline for Australia’s biggest triathlon, which is held in Port Macquarie. You’ll swim in the Hastings River, bike along the ocean and run through the town centre … and get a huge rush at the end. If you’re not keen to take part, join the crowds for a slice of vicarious sports thrills. Picture: Supplied
Take a hike with this easy and short trail to Old Bottlebutt', an ancient and enormous Red Bloodwood. Picture: Destination NSW
The beaches of Port Macquarie have plenty of beaches for different surf levels (there are 17 beaches here), while schools like Port Macquarie Surf School will get you on the waves in no time. Picture: Destination NSW
A hit for families and anyone else who are fans of Australia’s native animals, the Billabong Zoo is home to both local wildlife and exotic animals. Open daily from 9am – 5pm, the zoo costs from $22 for kids (3-15) and $35 for adults. Family tickets are available. Picture: Destination NSW
Having a drop at the local wineries (such as Bago Maze and Winery, Cassegrain Winery (pictured), Little Fish Cafe Restaurant & Vineyard and Long Point Vineyard is a must for the lovers of the grape who are after a winery visit. Better still, you can have an exquisite itinerary planned out for you by Secret Vines and you don't even have to worry about designating a driver. Picture: Destination NSW
Built in 1879, the Tacking Point Lighthouse is a perfect spot for those killer coastal views, as well as a point from which to see the whale migration. Picture: Supplied
South of Port Macquarie by seven kilometres, Lighthouse Beach is a nine kilometres long surf beach located next to the Tacking Point Lighthouse. It is patrolled during school holidays and is a good pick for intermediate surfers and above. Picture: Matt Cramer
Stressful year? Book yourself in for a farm-stay eco retreat at the Mansfield Estate. They’ve teamed up with Reform Wellness to offer three-day retreats in their valley - filled with yoga, meditation, workshops, healthy, delicious meals and reflection circles, all aimed at empowering the individual.
As the name would suggest, this urban beach is near the centre of town. Catch some waves, set yourself for a picnic, admire the colourful graffiti of the Town Beach breakwall, get a coffee from the Salty Crew kiosk or check out the local skatepark. For comfy affordable digs, check out the Town Beach Motor Inn. Picture: Destination NSW
A moderate ocean view walk that can be done in four sections or all together, the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk is 9km one way. Starting at Town Beach, you can stop off for an ocean swim on this walk. From May to November keep your eyes peeled for migrating whales. Picture: Destination NSW
Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre at the Cassegrain Winery offers the chance to gallop to your heart's desire. Check it out for a variety of family-friendly options, like pony rides, horse rides through bushland and holiday camps. Picture: Supplied
See Port Macquarie from a birds eye view with a scenic helicopter ride. Opt for a private flight (three to seven people) over the beaches and Hastings River or have an ultra-luxurious winery tour, with your chopper dropping you at Bago Maze & Winery or Cassegrain Wines. Talk about a deso driver with flair.
Book here
See also:
Best family resorts on the NSW North Coast.
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