Things to Do in Port Macquarie: Your Ultimate NSW North Coast Guide

There's something genuinely special about Port Macquarie that hits you the moment you arrive. Maybe it's the way the morning sun glints off the Hastings River as it meets the Pacific Ocean, or perhaps it's the laid-back coastal vibe that makes you immediately want to kick off your shoes and stay a while. Whatever it is, this charming coastal town on New South Wales' mid-north coast has a magnetic quality that transforms casual visitors into devoted fans.

I've visited Port Macquarie numerous times over the years, and each trip reveals new layers to this multifaceted destination. What started as a penal settlement in 1821 has evolved into one of Australia's most livable regional cities—a place where pristine beaches meet subtropical rainforest, where rescued koalas receive world-class care, and where you can enjoy sophisticated dining one moment and be hiking to spectacular waterfalls the next.

Located about four hours' drive north of Sydney (or a quick one-hour flight), Port Macquarie—affectionately called "Port" by locals—offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family holiday, or a solo exploration of the NSW North Coast, this comprehensive guide will help you discover all the incredible things to do in Port Macquarie.

Things to Do in Port Macquarie

Why Port Macquarie Deserves a Spot on Your Australia Itinerary

Before diving into specific attractions, let me explain what makes Port Macquarie such a compelling destination. Unlike some coastal towns that rely solely on beach appeal, Port Macquarie offers remarkable diversity. You've got 17 pristine beaches stretching along 35 kilometers of coastline, the beautiful Hastings River winding through town, ancient rainforests within minutes of the CBD, spectacular waterfalls in the nearby hinterland, and a thriving food and wine scene that rivals much larger cities.

The climate is another major drawcard—Port Macquarie enjoys approximately 300 days of sunshine annually with mild winters and warm (but not oppressively hot) summers. This makes it an ideal year-round destination, though spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.

The town has also invested heavily in public infrastructure, creating a network of coastal walking paths, bike trails, and well-maintained beaches that make exploration easy and enjoyable. Plus, the strong commitment to wildlife conservation—particularly koalas—gives your visit a meaningful dimension beyond typical tourist experiences.

If you're planning your Australian adventure and need to handle travel documentation, Apply for an Australia eVisa through Australian Immigration Services. They specialize exclusively in eVisa applications, providing professional guidance that simplifies the often confusing visa process, allowing you to focus on planning your perfect Port Macquarie getaway.

Why Port Macquarie Deserves a Spot on Your Australia Itinerary

Essential Things to Do in Port Macquarie

1. Visit the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

If I had to recommend just one must-see attraction from all the things to do in Port Macquarie, the Koala Hospital would be it. This incredible facility has been rescuing and rehabilitating sick, injured, and orphaned koalas since 1973, but it gained international prominence during the devastating 2019-2020 bushfires when it became a beacon of hope amid the tragedy.

The hospital treats koalas suffering from various ailments—car strikes, dog attacks, chlamydia (a major threat to koala populations), and bushfire injuries. While some koalas recover and return to the wild, others with permanent disabilities remain at the hospital for life, unable to climb trees or survive independently.

Visiting is free (donations warmly appreciated), making it accessible to everyone. You'll see koalas in outdoor enclosures, typically either sleeping (they snooze up to 20 hours daily) or munching eucalyptus leaves. The best time to visit is during the afternoon feeding around 2:30pm when the koalas are most active.

The dedicated staff and volunteers are always present to answer questions and share individual koala stories. You'll learn about ongoing conservation efforts and the challenges facing wild koala populations. The hospital also runs guided tours at 3pm daily (gold coin donation) that provide deeper insights into their rehabilitation work.

Important update: The main hospital has temporarily relocated to the new Koala Conservation Wild Breeding Visitor & Education Centre (called Guulabaa, meaning "Place of Koala" in the local Indigenous language) at Lake Innes while the original facility undergoes redevelopment. The state-of-the-art Guulabaa facility opened in December 2024 in Cowarra State Forest and offers even more educational experiences about koala conservation.

2. Walk the Spectacular Coastal Walk

The Port Macquarie Coastal Walk ranks among the best things to do in Port Macquarie for visitors who want to experience the region's stunning natural beauty. This 9-kilometer pathway stretches from Town Beach in the north to Tacking Point Lighthouse in the south, showcasing the area's most beautiful beaches, rocky headlands, and coastal scenery.

The beauty of this walk is its flexibility—you don't need to tackle the entire distance. The route divides into four distinct sections:

• Westport to Town Beach (2km): Starting from the Hastings River mouth, this section follows the breakwall with its famous painted rocks decorated by locals and visitors over the years. It's a colorful, Instagram-worthy start to your journey.
• Town Beach to Flynns Beach (2.2km): This stretch includes Sea Acres National Park and passes through lush coastal vegetation before emerging at family-friendly Flynns Beach.
• Flynns Beach to Shelly Beach (2.2km): Winding around rocky headlands and through the Sea Acres Nature Reserve, this section offers stunning ocean views and chances to spot dolphins, particularly during migration seasons.
• Shelly Beach to Tacking Point (2.7km): The final section leads to the picturesque Tacking Point Lighthouse, perched on dramatic cliffs with panoramic coastal views. This is arguably the most scenic stretch.

The entire walk is relatively easy with some gentle hills but nothing too strenuous. Allow 3-4 hours for the full walk at a leisurely pace with photo stops. Bring water, sunscreen, and your camera—the views are absolutely spectacular, especially during golden hour.

3. Walk Through Ancient Rainforest at Sea Acres

Sea Acres National Park protects one of the largest remaining coastal rainforests on Australia's east coast, featuring an easy 1.3-kilometer elevated boardwalk that rises up to seven meters through the forest canopy. This represents one of the most unique things to do in Port Macquarie because you're experiencing an ancient ecosystem that has remained virtually unchanged for thousands of years.

The boardwalk starts at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, just three minutes from the Port Macquarie CBD. The center features eco-displays about local Aboriginal culture and the rainforest environment, plus regular exhibitions by local artists and a gift shop.

As you walk the boardwalk, you'll be immersed in the sights and sounds of the rainforest—colorful birds like the wompoo fruit dove and rose-crowned fruit dove flitting through the canopy, brush turkeys foraging on the forest floor, and the distinctive call of the green catbird. Keep an eye out for goannas and diamond pythons, and learn how the Birpai people used plants like the walking stick palm as a travel aid and made weapons from the python tree, which is the second hardest wood in the world.

Entry costs $9 for adults and $5 for school-age children, with family passes available for $20. Self-guided walks are available, but I highly recommend joining a ranger-guided tour for deeper insights into the ecosystem. The adjacent Rainforest Café, nestled among a magnificent grove of bangalow palms, offers a great spot for lunch or refreshments.

The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages, making it perfect for families. Allow 45 minutes to an hour for a leisurely stroll, or longer if you're joining a guided tour or Aboriginal Discovery activity.

4. Chase Waterfalls in the Hinterland

One of the most rewarding day trips and definitely among the things to do around Port Macquarie is exploring the spectacular waterfalls in the nearby hinterland. Ellenborough Falls, at 200 meters, is the tallest single-drop waterfall in New South Wales and among the tallest in the southern hemisphere.

Located approximately 90 minutes from Port Macquarie near the village of Elands, Ellenborough Falls offers four different viewing experiences depending on your fitness level: a viewing platform near the car park, a short walk to the head of the falls, a 10-minute walk to The Knoll viewing platform directly opposite the falls, and for the adventurous, a descent via 641 wooden steps to the base.

The walk to the base is absolutely worth the effort if you're reasonably fit. The path is well-maintained with wooden staircases that make quick work of the descent, though remember—what goes down must come up, and the return climb is challenging. At the bottom, you're rewarded with a spectacular view of the entire waterfall thundering into the pool below, often creating rainbows in the mist on sunny days.

The drive to Ellenborough Falls is scenic but includes approximately 18-19 kilometers of winding gravel road, so drive carefully and allow extra time. The falls are best visited after rain when water flow is strongest, though they typically run year-round.

Closer to Port Macquarie, Rawson Falls offers another excellent waterfall experience with a shorter walk to a beautiful swimming hole—perfect for cooling off on warm days.

5. Explore the Beaches

With 17 beaches spread along the coastline, beach-hopping is one of the quintessential things to do in Port Macquarie. Each beach has its own character and appeal:

Town Beach sits right in the heart of Port Macquarie, making it easily accessible for a quick swim. It's popular with surfers when waves are up but also suitable for families during calmer conditions. The beachfront is lined with cafés and restaurants, perfect for grabbing breakfast or coffee with an ocean view.

Flynns Beach is a beautiful family-friendly beach with generally gentle waves, excellent swimming conditions, and rock pools to explore at low tide. The beach is patrolled during summer months, and there are good facilities including showers, toilets, and nearby cafés.

Shelly Beach offers a more secluded feel despite being easily accessible. The beach is protected by rocky headlands creating calmer water conditions ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There's a beach kiosk for refreshments.

Lighthouse Beach at Tacking Point is wild and dramatic, backed by the historic lighthouse. Strong currents and powerful surf make it better suited for experienced surfers and beachcombing rather than swimming, but the scenery is absolutely stunning.

Miners Beach, Nobby's Beach, and Rocky Beach are smaller, quieter alternatives perfect for those seeking solitude. Each offers beautiful coastal scenery without the crowds.

For swimming, stick to patrolled beaches during patrol hours (typically 10am-5pm during summer and weekends/holidays during other times). Always swim between the red and yellow flags and be aware of rip currents.

6. Meet Australian Wildlife at Billabong Zoo

At Billabong Zoo, you can get up close with Australian and exotic animals, pat, stroke, feed, hold, hear, and see over 80 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. This multiple award-winning zoo offers genuine interactive experiences rather than just viewing animals from a distance.

Daily keeper talks and feeding demonstrations provide entertaining and educational insights into animal behavior. You can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies (they're very friendly!), hold a koala for photos (additional fee), meet reptiles including snakes and lizards, watch the crocodile feeding demonstration, and interact with various birds during the free-flight bird show.

The zoo maintains high animal welfare standards and focuses on conservation education. It's particularly good for families with children who want hands-on wildlife experiences. The grounds are nicely landscaped with shaded areas and picnic facilities.

Allow 2-3 hours to explore properly and catch several keeper talks. The zoo is located about 15 minutes' drive from Port Macquarie center. Admission prices vary, so check their website for current rates and any special offers.

7. Discover Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail

Fifty one-meter-tall hand-painted koala sculptures made of fiberglass are dotted around the Port Macquarie landscape, creating the Hello Koalas Public Sculpture Trail from the mountains to the sea. This public art project combines creativity with koala conservation awareness, making it a fun and photogenic activity for all ages.

Each koala sculpture is uniquely designed by different artists, ranging from traditional Australian themes to whimsical and abstract interpretations. You'll find them in unexpected places—outside cafés, in parks, along the waterfront, at shopping centers, and on hiking trails.

Pick up a map from the Visitor Information Centre or download it online, then create your own self-guided tour, ticking off koalas as you find them. It's a great way to explore different parts of Port Macquarie while hunting for these colorful characters. Kids especially love the treasure hunt aspect.

The sculpture trail is free to enjoy and accessible 24/7. Some visitors dedicate an entire day to finding all 50 koalas, while others stumble upon them serendipitously while exploring the region. Either way, they add a delightful element of surprise to your Port Macquarie adventure.

8. Paddle the Hastings River

The Hastings River winds through Port Macquarie, creating excellent opportunities for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and gentle boating. The river is clean and serves as the location for many water activities, making it perfect for a peaceful paddle through scenic waterways.

Several operators offer kayak and SUP rentals along with guided tours. Early morning paddles are particularly magical when the water is glassy and birdlife is most active. You might spot stingrays gliding beneath your kayak, eastern water dragons sunning on logs, or a variety of water birds fishing along the banks.

For something more adventurous, Port Jet Cruise Adventures offers thrilling jet boat rides on the river, combining scenic views with adrenaline-pumping excitement—perfect for older kids and adults seeking a bit of speed.

Sunset cruises also operate on the river, providing a relaxed way to experience the waterway while enjoying the changing colors as day transitions to evening. Many include commentary about the river's history and ecology.

9. Visit Historic Tacking Point Lighthouse

The Tacking Point Lighthouse can be reached by car or as one end of the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. This picturesque lighthouse stands on dramatic clifftops providing panoramic views up and down the coastline.

The lighthouse was built in 1879 and remains operational today, though it's now automated. While you can't climb inside, the exterior and surrounding grounds are beautiful for photos. The grassy headland is perfect for picnicking, and the views across Lighthouse Beach are stunning.

Several people recommend visiting the Tacking Point Lighthouse at sunrise, when the early morning light bathes the lighthouse and ocean in golden hues. It's worth setting your alarm for this magical experience.

During whale migration season (May-November), Tacking Point is an excellent vantage point for spotting humpback whales as they travel along the coast. Bring binoculars for the best viewing.

The lighthouse area includes interpretive signage explaining its history and the importance of lighthouses to maritime navigation. Free entry and parking make this an accessible attraction for all visitors.

10. Experience the Food and Wine Scene

Port Macquarie's dining scene has matured significantly in recent years, offering surprisingly sophisticated options for a regional town. Long Point Vineyard offers wine tasting, local art, and delicious products from the Port Macquarie hinterland, including their famous Agent Orange liqueur.

Cassegrain Wines is notable as one of their winemakers recently won winemaker of the year, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The cellar door offers tastings and often includes local cheese and produce.

For craft beer lovers, several microbreweries have established themselves in the region. Small breweries in the industrial area allow you to sit at the bar and enjoy locally made beers while watching where the brewing magic happens.

The restaurant scene spans from casual beachside cafés to upscale dining establishments. The Beach House (formerly the Royal Hotel, opened in 1840) is one of the city's best bars with a great atmosphere and menu. For breakfast, numerous excellent cafés line the town center and beachfront areas.

Don't miss the Port Macquarie Growers Market held Saturday mornings, where you can sample and purchase fresh local produce, artisan goods, and homemade treats directly from producers.

Essential Things to Do in Port Macquarie

Planning Your Port Macquarie Adventure

When to Visit

Port Macquarie is genuinely a year-round destination, but timing affects which things to do in Port Macquarie are most enjoyable:

Summer (December-February): Warm to hot weather (25-30°C) perfect for beaches and water activities. This is peak season with school holidays bringing crowds and higher prices, but the atmosphere is lively and festive.

Autumn (March-May): Perhaps the best time to visit. Temperatures remain warm (20-25°C) with less humidity, fewer crowds, and still excellent beach weather. The hinterland waterfalls often have good flow from summer rains.

Winter (June-August): Mild and sunny with temperatures around 17-20°C. Perfect for hiking and outdoor activities without heat. Whale watching season peaks from June to October. Accommodation prices drop significantly.

Spring (September-November): Beautiful weather with warming temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds than summer. Excellent for all activities.

Getting There and Around

By Air: Port Macquarie Airport receives direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with the airport located just 5 kilometers from the town center. Flying is the quickest option, taking about an hour from Sydney.

By Car: The drive from Sydney takes approximately 4 hours via the Pacific Highway, a well-maintained highway with plenty of rest stops. This gives you flexibility to stop at other coastal towns along the way and have transport once you arrive.

Getting Around: Port Macquarie is spread out, so having a car is beneficial for reaching beaches, waterfalls, and hinterland attractions. However, the town center and main beaches are walkable or accessible by local buses. Bicycle rentals are popular for exploring the coastal paths and town.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options span all budgets:

Budget: Several backpacker hostels in town offer dorm beds and private rooms from $25-60 per night. The Beachfront Backpackers and Port Macquarie YHA both receive positive reviews.

Mid-Range: Countless motels, holiday apartments, and self-contained units line the beachfront and inland areas, typically ranging $120-200 per night. Flynns Beach Resort and Sails Port Macquarie are popular choices.

Luxury: Upscale hotels and resorts like The Observatory Hotel and Rydges Port Macquarie offer premium amenities including pools, spas, and restaurants with ocean views, from $200-400+ per night.

Holiday Parks: Several holiday parks offer powered sites for caravans/campervans and cabins, perfect for families. Breakwall Tourist Park right on the waterfront is particularly popular.

Book well ahead during Australian school holidays (late December-January, Easter, June-July, late September-early October) when accommodation fills quickly.

Planning Your Port Macquarie Adventure

About Australian Immigration Services

Before embarking on your Port Macquarie adventure, ensure your travel documentation is properly arranged. Australian Immigration Services specializes exclusively in eVisa applications, offering professional guidance that removes the complexity from visa processing. Rather than navigating confusing government websites independently, their experienced team guides you through each step of the application, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. With their support, you can focus your energy on the exciting part—planning which of these incredible best things to do in Port Macquarie you'll experience first.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Beyond the main attractions, Port Macquarie offers numerous hidden gems worth discovering:

The Glasshouse serves as the cultural heart of Port Macquarie, housing a theater, regional gallery, visitor information center, gift shop, café, and restaurant with interactive heritage displays. Check their program for concerts, exhibitions, and performances during your visit.

Port Macquarie Museum provides fascinating insights into the area's convict history, Indigenous heritage, and development as a holiday destination. It's larger than expected with multiple rooms packed with well-presented artifacts and stories.

The Breakwall features colorful graffiti-covered rocks creating an ever-changing outdoor art gallery. Messages, tributes, and creative artworks from locals and visitors make this a unique spot for photos and contemplation.

Historic Buildings: Several heritage buildings dot the town including St. Thomas' Anglican Church (1824-1828), Roto House (1891), and various commercial buildings listed on the NSW Heritage Register.

For those interested in Aboriginal culture, several operators offer guided experiences exploring bush tucker, traditional practices, and Dreamtime stories connected to the local landscape. These provide authentic insights you won't gain from museums alone.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Final Thoughts

Port Macquarie exceeded my expectations on my first visit, and it continues to surprise me with each return. What impresses me most is the genuine balance this town has struck—it's developed enough to offer excellent amenities, sophisticated dining, and comfortable accommodations, yet it retains an authentic coastal character without feeling overly commercialized or touristy.

The things to do in Port Macquarie showcase remarkable diversity. In a single day, you might walk through ancient rainforest, swim at pristine beaches, meet rescued koalas, chase spectacular waterfalls, taste award-winning wines, and watch the sunset from a historic lighthouse. Few destinations pack such variety into a compact, accessible region.

What truly sets Port Macquarie apart is the warmth of the local community and their genuine pride in their home. The commitment to wildlife conservation, particularly through the Koala Hospital, gives the destination heart and purpose beyond typical tourism. When you visit Port Macquarie, you're not just ticking off attractions—you're connecting with people working to protect Australia's precious wildlife and natural environment.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, family fun, wildlife encounters, or cultural experiences, Port Macquarie delivers with authenticity and charm. The mild climate means you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, while the relatively compact size keeps everything accessible without overwhelming logistics.

Pack your swimmers, walking shoes, sunscreen, and camera, and prepare to discover why so many visitors fall in love with this special corner of the NSW North Coast. Some people come for a weekend and end up extending their stay. Others leave already planning their return visit. That's the Port Macquarie effect—it gets under your skin in the best possible way.

Just remember to arrange your visa through Australian Immigration Services well before your trip, and you'll soon be walking the Coastal Walk at sunrise, watching koalas munch eucalyptus at the Koala Hospital, swimming in the pool beneath Ellenborough Falls, and understanding exactly why locals proudly call this beautiful region home.

The beaches are waiting, the rainforest is calling, and Port Macquarie is ready to surprise you with its natural beauty and warm hospitality.