Situated along Australia's East Coast, Port Macquarie quickly stole my heart with its rich history as a former penal colony, now transformed into a lively coastal city bursting with charm.
The locals affectionately call it “Port,” and while it is the perfect pitstop for a night or two on any East Coast road trip, I recommend spending a little more time to really explore every nook and cranny, it's certainly worth it!
From lazing on stunning beaches to chasing waves and catching dolphins dancing in the Hastings River at sunset, I am eager to share all the details in my guide to this coastal paradise.
In my guide, I'll let you in on all there is to see and explore in this seaside gem, as well as the best cafes and restaurants to eat and where to sleep.
Getting to and Around Port Macquarie
We left early to drive from the Gold Coast to Port Macquarie, which took us just over 5 hours. From Sydney CBD, the drive along the Pacific Highway takes about 4.5 hours.
If you're coming from further, Port Macquarie is also accessible by air, with the local airport (PQQ) servicing domestic flights from major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Qantas Link, Bonza Airlines and Rex are the only ones with direct flights.
Once you've arrived, navigating the town is easy. Port Macquarie is super walkable and has a compact size to you don't really need a car, unless you want to venture out of town. There's also an abundance of walking trails above the beautiful beaches and through lush parks and bushland.
Best Time to Visit Port Macquarie
The best time to visit Port Macquarie on the mid-north coast of New South Wales is during the mild months of autumn and spring. These seasons, from March to May and September to November respectively, offer nice temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, ideal for outdoor activities, beach days, hiking in the national parks, or exploring the town's charming cafes and boutiques.
I traveled to Port Macquarie just after the New Year for a week and there were certainly crowds. Especially in the evening by the river on the grass, but it didn't feel overcrowded.
However, if you are traveling around the busy Christmas/New Year/School Holiday period, I recommend booking your dinner tables a day or so ahead. I did encounter line-ups and some places couldn't accommodate our party of 4 people at all.
Best Things to Do in Port Macquarie
Explore the Coastal Walks
I love walking in the early morning. For an easy flat walk, choose to walk along the Breakwall. If you like something more scenic, keep going along the Coastal Walk from Town Beach up to Flagstaff Lookout and further. I walked until Rocky Beach Lookout, but you can continue the walk until the lighthouse which is another hour or so. You'll be rewarded with stunning views of the coastline and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Visit Tacking Point Lighthouse
If you don't feel like doing the entire walk from town, you can also drive here in just about 10 minutes. The white lighthouse itself is really picturesque, and so are the panoramic views of the coastline. Tacking Point Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Australia.
Discover Sea Acres Rainforest
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre is one of Australia's few remaining coastal rainforests. Wander along elevated boardwalks to breathe in the rainforest smell while wandering through the greenery on a big loop. You might even spot some wildlife. After the walk, you can treat yourself to a snack from the cafe.
Ride Camels along the Beach
You can now enjoy a Broome-like experience right in Port Macquarie – ride camels along Lighthouse Beach! Led by experienced guides, these camel rides provide an unforgettable experience to soak in the beauty of the area. It's not cheap, but certainly unique!
Visit the Koala Hospital
Learn about the koala conservation efforts and get up close to these iconic Australian animals at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, where you can take a guided tour and observe koalas in rehabilitation. The entry is free but you're free to make a donation.
Relax on the Beaches
Spend a day soaking up the sun and swimming at one of Port Macquarie's beautiful beaches, such as Town Beach or Lighthouse Beach. In fact, you'll have a total of 17 beautiful beaches to choose from within the Port Macquarie area.
Watch the Sunset
Catch a stunning sunset from the Town Beach Breakwall or Gaol Point, offering picturesque views over the ocean. Alternatively, bring a picnic mat and sit on the grass at Town Green.
Best Day Trips Within the Port Macquarie Region
When it comes to day trips in the Port Macquarie region, the options are endless.
From soaking up the sun on extensive beaches to immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Birpai people, the traditional custodians of the land, to spotting adorable koalas in their natural habitat, here are a few of my favorite activities to enjoy in the Port Macquarie area:
Bago Maze and Wine
Head inland to Bago Maze and Wine for a fun-filled day of wine tasting, exploring the intricate maze, and enjoying a picnic amidst the picturesque vineyards. Sample award-winning wines while admiring the serene countryside setting. Highly recommend this place for kids and adults alike!
Lake Cathie
Just a short drive south of Port Macquarie lies Lake Cathie, a picturesque estuary offering a range of recreational activities. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, or simply taking a stroll along the scenic foreshore that's abundant with birdlife.
Old Bottlebutt
Discover the ancient grandeur of the Old Bottlebutt, one of the largest and oldest trees in Australia, located in Burrawan State Forest. It's a short drive from Bago Maze and while I first thought this would be a bit boring, I really enjoyed the short stroll along the boardwalk to marvel at this majestic giant within the tranquil forest surroundings.
Crescent Head
Venture north to Crescent Head on the highway, alternatively take the Settlement Point Ferry over the other side and drive the dirt road. Crescent Head is a laid-back coastal town known for its world-class surf breaks and stunning beaches. If you're up for it, spend the day catching waves or exploring scenic coastal walks. Otherwise, simply relax on the pristine sands.
Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberry Farm
Visit Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberry Farm in nearby Port Macquarie to pick your own strawberries, sample delicious tomato products, and enjoy farm-fresh produce. The scones with jam and creme are also delish!
Diamond Head
Explore the natural beauty of Diamond Head in Crowdy Bay National Park, known for its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and stunning coastal walks. Take a hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and sparkling ocean vistas.
Best Cafes and Restaurants in Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie is certainly not short on amazing places to eat. You will find lots of great cafes serving up good proportions as well as little hole-in-the-wall cafes and hidden bars.
Despite its size, the town offers an impressive array of lunch and dinner choices.
Here are some of my favorites I found during my trip:
Cafés
Four Espresso: This cozy cafe was right across from where I stayed. Really good coffee and breakfast.
Meg & Me Espresso: Little hole in a wall cafe next to a beautiful boutique with the same name. Super friendly staff and good strong coffee. I opted for a takeaway, but they also offer a few small outdoor seating options.
Frankies Cafe: Popular spot on the corner for a hearty breakfast (I was full for most of the day!) and relaxed lunches.
Social Grounds Espresso Bar: A little outside the town centre, this trendy spot serves specialty coffee and gourmet sandwiches.
Casual Eats
Homeslice Pizza Bar Port Macquarie: Pizza joint serving up delicious pizzas with many different toppings. Try the Prawn Hub pizza!
Town Green Buffet and Bar: Buffet-style dining with a variety of dishes overlooking the town's greenery. Well worth it for the prize.
Glass House Thai: We had some simple yet delicious Thai food here one night. It got busy and the food lived up to expectations. Get a couple of dishes for the table to share!
Papa Feta Ouzeria: We loved sitting on the sidewalk outside while feasting on some authentic Greek cuisine. This place has got a lively atmosphere and good value for money.
Fine Dining
The Stunned Mullet: Award-winning restaurant offering stunning ocean views and a menu focused on fresh seafood.
Twotriplefour by Bills: A bit more fancy! This restaurant offers a fusion of modern Australian and international cuisine.
The Grill: We ate at this restaurant on their deck. Meat-heavy menu and decent cocktails, perfect for enjoying the view.
For Drinks
Stick Bar: This casual eatery is a little hidden gem! Located down the side next to Twotriplefour, is known for its tasty skewers and tapas-style dishes. Order one of their unique cocktails!
Little Shack: One of my absolute favs in town! This cozy spot is great for sunset drinks with scenic views over the Hastings River. Coconut margarita is on point! And if you're lucky, you might see dolphins playing in the river.
For Dessert
Blue Cow Gelato: This popular gelato spot with a wide range of flavors always has a line right out the door in summer. Yum!
Where to Stay in Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie has a large variety of holiday accommodation options, from beachfront resorts to cozy boutique hotels and some exceptional caravan and holiday parks as well.
If you want everything within walking distance, I recommend you stay around the centre of town, around Clarence Street, which is one of the main streets in the heart of town. Choose to stay in some of the side streets, around Horton Street or William Street and you'll be super central.
If you're looking to stay in the hinterland, you'll find some unique and secluded accommodation options.
Here are some of the best accommodation choices in Port Macquarie:
Best Luxury Hotel: Sails Port Macquarie
If you're traveling to Port Macquarie for some luxury, you can't go past Sails! This hotel offers elegant waterfront accommodations with panoramic views, located just outside of town in Pelican Bay, close to the Marina. You'll love the great service and upscale amenities if you seek a lavish retreat on the NSW coast.
Check availability & best rates
Best 4-Star Hotel: The Mid Pacific
The Mid Pacific is a 4-star hotel with modern rooms in a prime location right near the beach and town center. Many rooms come with glimpses of the Hastings River.
Check availability & best rates
Best Apartments: Port Pacific Resort
I stayed at the Port Pacific Resort, which is just a short stroll from Town Beach. Our self-contained 2-bedroom apartment had a full kitchenette and three huge private balconies. There's also a fitness center and a heated outdoor pool. Plus a barbecue area and hot tubs on the rooftop, which also has brilliant views over the entire town.
Check availability & best rates
Best Affordable Ocean View Rooms: ibis Styles Port Macquarie
Right opposite Town Beach, you'll find the ibis Styles Port Macquarie sitting on a hill, which means that most rooms get an epic view of the water and beach below. There's also an outdoor pool and the hotel is within walking distance to the town centre and many dining options.
Check availability & best rates
Best Retro Accommodation: Camp Jordan
Camp Jordan is a top choice for retro accommodation. This beautifully renovated campground in Port Macquarie offers bungalows, glamping tents and retro caravans and kombis for a unique stay. Hang out poolside or enjoy the sun terrace and activities such as table tennis and mini-golf. They also offer BBQ Boats, as well as boat, kayak and paddle board hire.
Check availability & best rates
Best Caravan Park: NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park
Centrally situated and bordered by the beach, city center, and Hastings River, NRMA Port Macquarie is probably the best campground around! It offers diverse accommodations from cabins to caravan sites, including a swimming pool, camp kitchen, and barbecue areas.
Check availability & best rates
Most Secluded & Unique Place to Stay Outside of Town: Nature Domes
Nature Domes offers a secluded and unique accommodation experience in the hinterland of Port. Stay in cozy domes immersed in nature in a remote location and you'll be sure to feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of life.
Check availability & best rates
Book Your Trip To Australia
Book Your Flight
I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to and within Australia.
Book Your Hotel
My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com, as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings.
Book Your Tours & Activities
I like finding and pre-booking tours with Get Your Guide and Viator. You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities.
Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees
I highly recommend getting a Wise account to withdraw money in Australia, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Australian Dollars. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to.
Stay Connected Anywhere
Getting an eSIM card from Airalo eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees.
Don't Go Without Travel Insurance
Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo, my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a Breathing Travel reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased!
Ultimate Travel Guide To Port Macquarie – Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is Port Macquarie worth visiting?
Absolutely! Port Macquarie is definitely worth visiting for its stunning beaches, rich history, outdoor activities, great boutique shopping and its dining scene. It's an ideal destination for anyone seeking a relaxing coastal getaway with plenty of charm and attractions to explore.
⭐ What makes Port Macquarie so popular?
Port Macquarie's popularity comes without a double from its picturesque coastal setting. It's got a diverse range of outdoor activities along the coastline and hinterland as well as a lively town centre with dining and shopping, making it the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure along the New South Wales coast.
🏝️ Is Port Macquarie a good holiday destination?
Port Macquarie is an ideal holiday destination suitable for families with children as well as couples. While it tends to attract a slightly older crowd, there's plenty to enjoy for visitors in their 30s alongside their companions in their 60s. With its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and diverse dining options, Port Macquarie caters to a wide range of travelers seeking an unforgettable getaway.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Port Macquarie – Final Words
As I wrap up this travel guide to Port Macquarie, I can't help but reminisce about my own adventures in this coastal paradise. From lazy days on sun-soaked beaches to sampling local cuisine and day trips into the hinterland, my time here has been nothing short of amazing.
Whether you're into beach bumming, exploring a coastal walk, or simply soaking up the laid-back vibes of town, Port Macquarie has it all, and I'm already itching to plan my next trip back.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!
