Spot majestic whales from a historic lighthouse, explore the scenic coast and learn about the area’s convict history at this lovely seaside town in New South Wales.
Port Macquarie is a charming town on New South Wales’ Mid North Coast, at the mouth of the meandering Hastings River. Experience the town’s rich maritime heritage, historic architecture, exciting wildlife parks and diverse coastal landscapes. Try adventurous watersports, tour the waterfront by bike and relax with a local wine on a scenic cruise.
Explore the Port Macquarie township to find a range of historic buildings and relics from the area’s convict past. The Old Courthouse, the Port Macquarie Historic Cemetery and St. Thomas Anglican Church offer a glimpse of Port Macquarie’s European settlement as a penal colony. Learn about the area’s maritime history at the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum. Relax with a cup of coffee or collect fresh market produce at the Town Green, a public park with views of the town’s scenic wharf.
Embark on Port Macquarie’s breathtaking coastal walk, a hiking trail that leads south from the town to Flynn’s Beach and beyond. Head to Tacking Point Lighthouse to see a historic lighthouse with idyllic headland views. If you’re lucky, a pod of whales might breach in the ocean below.
Meet some of Australia’s unique animals at Port Macquarie’s fantastic wildlife parks. See native and exotic animals at the Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park or critters being nursed back to health at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. Visit the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre on Shelly Beach to explore a lush rainforest national park. Wander along boardwalks and nature trails to see native flying foxes, wallabies and kangaroos.
Port Macquarie is 385 kilometres (239 miles) north of Sydney, New South Wales’ capital city. Catch regional flights from Sydney or Brisbane to Port Macquarie Airport. Buses connect Port Macquarie to other major cities on Australia’s east coast. Reach Port Macquarie by car or train to Wauchope, a stop on the North Coast Railway Line approximately 20 minutes’ drive away. Port Macquarie’s compact town centre and sunny, mild weather make it an ideal destination for walking tours.
