14 unforgettable things to do in Port Macquarie

Pristine beaches, sleepy coastal enclaves, a bustling foodie scene and lush hinterland offer a smorgasbord of things to do in Port Macquarie.

From well-known tourist magnets to hidden gems favoured by locals, Port Macquarie’s best itinerary fillers shine a light on the expansive beauty of the NSW North Coast. Whether you’re a sucker for breathtaking coastal trails, native wildlife encounters or deep diving into a place’s historical roots, the best things to do in Port Macquarie tick everyone’s boxes. 

1. Wander along the Breakwall

Breakwall in Port Macquarie — The breakwall is a popular spot for its colourful graffiti rocks. (Image: Destination NSW)

Even if this is your first Port Macquarie trip, you’ll likely recognise its iconic Breakwall from the postcards over the years. The long stretch of colourful graffiti rocks is filled with a collage of messages, tributes and written memories from visitors and locals that serve as a gallery of sorts, providing the means for all to share just how impactful their time in this coastal pocket of NSW has been.

It also serves as an entry point to the popular nine-kilometre Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, one of the best walks and hikes in Port Macquarie, which stretches from the Town Green to Tacking Point Lighthouse and Lighthouse Beach. Expect to spot marine life, bask in untamed beauty and chat with friendly locals casting their fishing lines off the rocks along the way.

2. Feast by the water

Book a spot at Whalebone Wharf for sweeping views and scrumptious seafood. (Image: Destination NSW)

While solid dining experiences for every meal of the day are peppered throughout town, the most magical plates come with water views. Whalebone Wharf is an institution, renowned for long, meandering seafood lunches overlooking the sparkling Hastings River, and there’s also The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant located at Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges on the marina, for special occasions among a sea of million-dollar yachts.

For more casual bites overlooking that shimmering blue beyond, Rydges Port Macquarie ‘s Zebu Bar & Restaurant , one of the best bars and pubs found in town, is always a scene, pumping out relaxed breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails for holidaymakers and locals alike.

3. Make new furry friends at Billabong Zoo

Get up close and personal to an array of Australian and exotic wildlife at the award-winning Billabong Zoo . From snow leopards, koalas and red pandas to reptiles, meerkats and cheetahs, more than 80 types of critters are ready to be petted, fed, held or simply admired via a schedule of personal encounters.

Learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about your favourites with regular zookeeper talks, which also detail the zoo’s passion for conservation including its world-renowned koala breeding program. More than 200 animals are cared for at this place, long-renowned as one of the most endearing wildlife parks in the country.

4. Support the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie — The hospital is dedicated to year-round koala care and conservation. (Image: Destination NSW)

Speaking of our cuddliest native creatures, the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is another excellent thing to do in Port Macquarie. After the 2019-2020 bushfires devastated the local koala population, this incredible organisation was met with an overwhelming wave of financial support from all over the world. A crowdfunding page raised money to purchase and distribute automatic drinking stations within burnt areas, but the page quickly amassed over $8 million from more than 150,000 donors.

Drop in to see the important work they do first-hand, and head over to the Koala Conservation Wild Breeding Visitor & Education Centre (which opened in December 2024) in the Cowarra State Forest (just a short drive away) to catch even more of their brilliance. The team named the latter state-of-the-art facility Guulabaa, which means Place of Koala in Indigenous language.  

5. Watch the sunrise at Town Beach

Travelling with someone inclined to sleep the morning away? A Port Macquarie sunrise is the best incentive to get them out of bed and Town Beach is a prime location to catch the day’s first rays. The location, one of the best Port Macquarie beaches and swimming spots, is protected from south winds, plus it’s close to the centre of town so getting there is a cinch. Pack a picnic blanket, wear warm clothes and prepare to sit back and take in some multi-hued glory. If you need some caffeine to get your travel companion going, The Salty Crew Kiosk is open from 6am every day.

6. Board a whale-watching cruise

Port Jet Cruises at Port Macquarie — Port Macquarie is one of the best places to view the yearly migration of humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Approximately 16,000 humpback whales migrate north along the coast of NSW each year from Antarctica to mate and give birth before returning for summer. As proven year after year, Port Macquarie is one of the best Aussie destinations to spy the majestic mammals in action.

Book one of the many whale-watching cruises that depart frequently throughout the season (May to November) for your best chance at spotting them in the water. The experienced skippers of Port Jet Cruises know the best viewing spots and will also feed answers to all your questions along the way.

Not budgeting a cruise into the mix this trip? There are several popular whale-spotting sites along the coast to take advantage of. The heritage-listed Tacking Point Lighthouse is a good vantage point, along with various spots on the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk and at Grants Head on the northern edge of Grants Beach.

7. Connect to your surroundings at the Port Macquarie Museum

Take a journey into the past at the Port Macquarie Museum . An eye-opening thing to do in Port Macquarie, particularly if you’ve run into a rainy day during your visit, the space charts the destination’s rich history as a British penal settlement, plus precisely how it became the tourist attraction it is today.

There are over 20,000 objects on display across several rooms and galleries, with the team committed to sourcing remarkable artefacts and materials since 1957. Think fascinating photos from a bygone era, donations from everyday life and special exhibitions that highlight significant moments in the region’s development.

8. Take a dip at one (or more) of the 17 pristine beaches

Flynns Beach in Port Macquarie — Flynns Beach is a picturesque paradise for surfers. (Image: Destination NSW)

Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to picnic, a dog-friendly place to walk, somewhere that’s 4WD-accessible or a place to learn how to surf, there’s a beach in Port Macquarie with your name on it.

Families flock to the patrolled shores of Lake Cathie to enjoy the inflatable slides and trampolines. Flynns Beach is also a popular patrolled beach that ticks kid-friendly boxes with its shaded picnic areas and kiosk. Surfers frequent Town, Lighthouse and Rainbow Beaches, while those seeking solitude make their way to Oxley and Shelly Beach for less-crowded options. Nobbys Beach, with its long stretches of sand, is the best dog-friendly spot in the area.

9. Pick fresh strawberries at Ricardoes

Call into Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries to experience the pleasure of picking your own plump, luscious fruit. Located just 10 minutes from the CBD back towards the Pacific Highway, Ricardoes grows five varieties of hydroponic strawberries and over 30,000 plants in their greenhouse. Join the free guided farm tours that depart 11am on weekdays or spend time meandering the enclosed stalls at your own leisure.

Once you’re done plucking your goodies, stroll through its retail centre which overflows with bags of tomatoes and punnets of strawberries, further fresh produce spanning lettuce, herbs, dark green spinach and freshly dug onions, local preserves and other gourmet delights. Standouts include Ricardoes’ tangy tomato relishes, rich tomato pasta sauces and conserves thick with whole berries.

10. Have a drink at The Beach House

Beach House in Port Macquarie — Relax by the waterfront at this charming coastal hotspot. (Image: Destination NSW)

Community comes alive at the legendary Beach House . This Port Macquarie pub boasts a contemporary menu, prime waterfront location and relaxed atmosphere that’s made even more inviting thanks to friendly locals always up for a chat.

This fabulous thing to do in Port Macquarie also serves as a top-notch hangout for a sunset drink, with patrons lingering well into the night on weekends. It’s also a popular space for events so there’s usually entertainment of an evening while you sip on a local brew or indulge in a hearty pub meal.

11. Wander around Bago Maze & Wine

Any place that combines wine with an enormous outdoor fun zone deserves our attention. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees, rolling countryside and acres of vines, Bago Maze & Wine is located a short scenic drive off the Pacific Highway, south of Port Macquarie.

Kids and adults alike are encouraged to wander, run and lose themselves in the stunning architecturally designed native lilly pilly hedge maze. Spend your day seeking out the magic of hidden bends, sunken pathways and beautifully landscaped gardens, only stopping to take in the serenity at the lookout towers. It’s one of the world’s largest hedge mazes, with over 2,000 metres of pathways to explore.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head up to the working vineyard and winery portion of the property. Perched on a hill, the cellar door and pergola overlook the maze and vineyard, making it the ideal spot to sit and take in the scenery. Enjoy a tasting and then relax with a glass of wine or coffee and indulge in a cheese or meat platter of local produce from around the region.

12. Take in the views of North Brother Mountain

If it’s accessible, panoramic views you seek, North Brother Mountain offers some of the best in the region. Situated in Dooragan National Park, its east coast vistas take in the magnificent Camden Haven Inlet and extend to Crowdy Head in the south, Mount Yarrahappini in the north and trace the Camden Haven River between Queens and Watson Taylors Lakes.

Pack your own lunch to take advantage of the picnic facilities on offer. There’s also an open lawn area where you can spread out and unwind while enjoying Port Macquarie’s most beautiful sights.

13. Explore the beach on the back of a camel

camels at Port Macquarie — Hop aboard one of Australia’s majestic camels. (Image: Destination NSW)

Strolling it on two feet is undoubtedly tranquil but Lighthouse Beach is arguably best experienced while perched upon a camel. Port Macquarie Camel Safaris offer a seriously serene experience, sending their foot-legged friends along the golden sand for a tour of the coastline as the sun sparkles in the morning.

The best bit? You don’t even need to book. It’s first-in, best-dressed, so if you’ve got a bit of time on your hands, simply queue up for a well-supervised, highly entertaining (and also educational, as a guide is on hand to offer facts and tales) spin.

14. Hunt a unique trail of koala sculptures

Hello Koalas sculpture at Port Macquarie — Each Hello Koalas sculpture is lovingly hand-painted by talented Australian artists. (Image: Destination NSW)

One of the best free things to do in Port Macquarie, the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail encompasses 91 fibreglass koala sculptures and it’s your job to spot them all. Spanning the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, the award-winning artistic street showcase is absolutely adorable, with designs inspired by everything from superhero characters and our national Surf Life Saving uniforms to high-profile Aussies and unique local communities. You can pick up a map of the trail at the Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop on Blackbutt Rd, or visit the website to download one.

Discover the best places to stay in Port Macquarie

Aussies might think they know what Port Stephens is all about – but it’s time to take another look.

You might’ve driven through this NSW coast town. Maybe even stopped for fish and chips or a quick dip. But spend a long weekend in the new Port Stephens , and you’ll seriously regret not doing it sooner. We’re talking treks across beaches, reef dives and up-close time with rescued koalas.

All in all? It only takes a day before you see Port Stephens in a whole new light, and not much longer until it’s locked in as your favourite family destination.

1. Stockton Sand Dunes

Port Stephens incredible Stockton Sand Dunes are the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere. They shift like an endless magic trick across the Worimi Conservation Lands , a 4200-hectare coastal co-managed by the Traditional Owners.

Tear over them in a 4WD. Rev through valleys soft as melting ice cream on a quad. Carve down 30-metre slopes on a sandboard. However you choose to cross them, you’re guaranteed a seriously wild ride.

Four rugged 4WDs kick up trails of golden dust as they charge across the sweeping desert landscape. — Chase thrills across shifting sands. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Scale Tomaree Head Summit Walk

A short climb through bushland opens up to the coastal drama of Tomaree Head . Spot Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches. See the Fingal Island lighthouse and offshore rookeries where Australia’s rarest seabird, the Gould’s petrel, nests.

History buffs can’t miss the WWII gun emplacements. And if you’re hiking between May and November, bring binoculars. Travelling whales might just be breaching below.

Friends enjoying a scenic walk along the Tomaree Head Summit Walk in Tomaree National Park, Port Stephens. — Climb Tomaree Head for jaw-dropping coastal views. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Watch out for whales

You’ve seen the spouts of migrating humpbacks and southern right whales from shore. Set sail from Nelson Bay to see them up close. Cruise straight into the action, with tail-slaps, barrel rolls and all.

And they’ve got competition from the local show-offs. Port Stephens bottlenose dolphins leap and play. Some tours even spot pudgy fur seals, spending lazy days soaking up the sun on Cabbage Tree Island.

A whale’s tail on the sea’s surface. — Watch for ocean tails. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

Pop into the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to learn about the rescued koalas who climb, nap, snack and heal in this natural patch of bushland. Wander the immersive Sanctuary Story Walk to discover more about their habits, then head to the SKYwalk – a treetop platform constructed for spotting these eucalyptus-loving locals. Peek into the hospital’s viewing window, where sick or injured koalas may be resting in their recovery enclosures.

Not enough time around these adorable marsupials? Stay overnight in silk-lined glamping tents.

Koala sleeping in a tree at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, One Mile — See koalas in their natural habitat. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Diving Port Stephens

Port Stephens has some of NSW’s best dive spots. At Fly Point, float through sponge gardens and coral castles thick with nudibranchs (AKA sea slugs). Halifax Park has blue gropers and crimson-banded wrasse, while Shoal Bay’s seagrass meadows hide pipefish, cuttlefish and octopus.

Accessible only by boat, Broughton Island is home to a vast array of marine (and bird) life. Snorkel with blue devilfish and stingrays at sites like The Looking Glass and North Rock. More experienced divers can head out with one of the many PADI-certified operators.

At nearby Cabbage Tree Island, expect to see shaggy-faced wobbegongs cruising along.

A couple suited up and ready to dive into adventure. — Suit up and dive into Port Stephens’ vibrant marine life. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters

Not quite ready to dive in? Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters is the perfect way to spot local marine life without getting too deep. But there’s no obnoxious glass tank tapping here. Instead, this interactive aquarium allows guests to wade into natural-style lagoons that mimic the real thing.

Gently pat Port Jackson and bamboo sharks, hand-feed rays, and feel their sandpapery skin with your fingertips. It is all under expert guidance. If you want to go deeper, pop on a wetsuit and swim alongside tawny nurse sharks, white-tipped reef sharks and zebra sharks in the lagoon.

Family enjoying an animal feeding experience at Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, Anna Bay. — Meet the ocean’s friendliest faces at Irukandji. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Fish the estuaries

Fishing fanatics will fall for Port Stephens hook, line and sinker. Here, one of the largest estuary systems in the whole state sees tidal rivers and mangrove ecosystems. Waterfronts are thick with oysters, and residential fish that might include anything from bream, whiting and flathead, to blue swimmer crabs, kingfish and longtail tuna.

If you prefer to choose your own adventure and fish offshore, you can hire a boat from one of the marinas and set your own course.

three men fishing on a boat in port stephens — Join a tour or chart your own fishing trip. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Taste new Port Stephens flavours

With plenty of activity to fill your days, refuelling on delectable cuisine becomes equally important. And Port Stephens answers the call.

Pop into Holbert’s Oyster Farm for fresh-farmed Port Stephens rock oysters and Pacific oysters, Australian king and tiger prawns, as well as a variety of tasty sauces to try them with.

Take a group to Atmos for an authentic Greek experience over large shared dishes and Greek-inspired cocktails. Or feast on sea-to-plate, modern Australian dishes at the pet-friendly Restaurant 2317.

A plate of fresh oysters. — Slurp your way through the region’s best oysters. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start planning your Port Stephens getaway at portstephens.org.au .