Is it already summer and you still haven’t got any plans? Why not visit this beautiful coastal destination in New South Wales, which is located at the mouth of the Hasting River? Port Macquarie has a lot to offer from beautiful sandy beaches, wildlife, vineyards, and rich history. One of the must-see attractions here is the stunning St. Thomas’ Anglican Church, which was built in the 19th century by convicts. If you’re into animals and want to get up close and personal with them, then you have to visit the Billabong Zoo. It is a breeding site of koalas and home to much wildlife. No matter what age you are or who’s with you during your vacation in Port Macquarie, there is surely something in store for you. In case you’re still looking for activities to fill your itinerary, read on, and discover our top things to do in Port Macquarie, Australia, and have the best summer ever.
1. Take a self-guided tour of Roto House
Go back in time as you enter the historic Roto House. It is a 19th-century Victorian house that was owned by John Flynn together with his wife and six children. You’ll be mesmerized with its beautiful and timeless decor such as the iron lamps that hang from the ceiling. Also, the amount of history you’ll find here is something you shouldn’t take for granted, from the family’s personal belongings to papers and photographs. Moreover, the place can be used as a venue for weddings and other special events.
Roto House
Address: 2 Roto Pl, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Roto House
Opening hours: 10am – 4:30pm (daily)
2. Go surfing at Lighthouse Beach
If you’re in Port Macquarie and looking forward to riding some waves, then there’s no better place to be than in the Lighthouse Beach. It is a 9-kilometer (5.59 mi) stretch that has all kinds of swell, which is perfect for intermediate and pro surfers, where they can enjoy short, powerful, and adrenaline-pumping rides. Aside from the beach, another attraction is the historic Tacking Point Lighthouse which was built in 1879. It features a great viewing deck so you could have a good view of the coast. You can also go whale watching here during the months of May to November.
Lighthouse Beach
Address: Matthew Flinders Dr, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Lighthouse Beach
3. Explore the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum
Located at the heart of town, Mid North Coast Maritime Museum features 100 years of nautical history. If you’re interested in such, you better visit this place for you’ll surely learn a lot from its collections of memorabilia and artifacts that range from nautical paintings, scale models of different kind of ships, historical photographs, and a lot more. This place was first built as Pilot Cottages in 1879, and consists of two buildings. Now, the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum has other two branches which are also located just within the town.
Mid North Coast Maritime Museum
Address: 6 William St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Mid North Coast Maritime Museum
Opening hours: 10am – 4pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
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4. Enjoy a spectacular flight over Port Macquarie
Are you a thrill seeker and dreaming of riding a seaplane? Then, the moment has come to take off and ride Port Macquarie Seaplanes. Here, you’ll be seeing in bird’s view everything Port Macquarie has to offer, from its beautiful coastlines to its waterways and more. You’ll be taking off with an experienced pilot and landing on the waters. The plane can suit three adults and make them see the town in a different and more exciting perspective.
Port Macquarie Seaplanes
Address: 1 Short St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Port Macquarie Seaplanes
Price: From 149 USD
5. Learn about the early European settlement at Innes Ruins
If you’re a history buff, you will surely want to visit the Innes Ruins in Port Macquarie. It is a historic site where you’ll see remnants of the early European settlement in New South Wales. It also gives us a very picturesque setting overlooking Lake Innes. Just a heads up, if you’re planning to visit, you can only visit through a guided tour which you can book from the Port Macquarie Information Center.
Innes Ruins
Address: Lake Innes Nature Reserve, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
Website: Innes Ruins
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Walk the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail
Another unique thing that separates Port Macquarie from other towns in Australia is its Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. It is a trail full of 1-meter (3.2 feet) tall fiberglass sculpture of koalas made and painted creatively by local artists. The trail will lead you to many interesting spots in town from hiking spots to the coastal areas. You’ll find these beautiful koala sculptures everywhere, like outside a restaurant, parks, under a tree, local shops, and more.
Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail
Address: 37 Clarence St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail
7. Dine at Westport Club
Located in a spectacular riverfront spot, Westport Club is the locals go-to place if they want to relax, indulge with good food, and have a sip of some exquisite wine. It is a modern and vibrant place that is perfect for unwinding. It features many dining options like Hastings Coffee Co. and Bakery, Aqua Restaurant, Jimmy’s Bar and Lounge as well as a private function venue, Westport Event Center. Moreover, it also has entertainment facilities which will be greatly enjoyed by the whole family.
Westport Club
Address: 25 Buller St., Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Westport Club
Opening hours: 8am – 3am (daily)
8. Have fun fishing with Port Macquarie Fishing Charters
If you want a complete fishing experience in Port Macquarie, one that will make sure that you’ll have a catch at the end of the day, then you have to avail of the services being offered by Port Macquarie Fishing Charters. In case you booked a fishing cruise with them, all you need to bring is your hat and patience. They have all the equipment and will also offer you food and drinks. Another great thing about them is they are the one who handles your catch so that when you come home it is all set to be cooked.
Port Macquarie Fishing Charters
Address: 74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Port Macquarie Fishing Charters
Opening hours: 6am – 7:30pm (daily)
Price: 150 USD
9. See exotic animals up close at Billabong Zoo: Koala & Wildlife Park
A more or less 10-acre (4.05 hectares) Koala and Wildlife Park, Billabong Zoo is an award-winning wildlife museum with 80 species of animals. What makes the experience more exciting here is you can pat, hold, feed, and have an up-close encounter with these beautiful creatures. Aside from having close encounters with wildlife, you’ll also learn so much about them through the Zoo Talks which happens throughout the day. Additionally, the place has picnic areas and a playground complete with amenities and facilities to make everything convenient for its guests.
Billabong Zoo: Koala & Wildlife Park
Address: 61 Billabong Dr, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Billabong Zoo: Koala & Wildlife Park
Opening hours: 9am – 5pm (daily)
Price: 34 USD
10. Tee off at Port Macquarie Driving Range and Mini Golf
If you’re looking for a fun activity for the whole family, then bring them at Port Macquarie Driving Range and Mini Golf. It is an 18-hole mini golf course where you can practice your skills and have your little ones play their own game of putt-putt. The establishment also offers a Target Golf wherein you can win special prizes.
Port Macquarie Driving Range and Mini Golf
Address: 3 Lindfield Park Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Port Macquarie Driving Range and Mini Golf
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am – 5:30pm; Sun: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Price: 13 USD
11. Go on a heritage walking tour
Another great activity that will make you get to know the town more is by joining walking tours. There are a lot of walking tours being offered here that tackles about the history of the place, just like the Port Macquarie Historical and Archaeological tour, wherein you’ll learn about its fascinating past that goes back to 1821 when it was a penal settlement. Additionally, you can also join the historic cemetery tour and learn about fascinating stories about the 1,500 people who are buried there.
Heritage walking tour
Address: 9495, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 |
Website: Heritage walking tour
Price: 25 USD
12. Visit the art gallery at The Glasshouse
If you’re an art enthusiast, you shouldn’t miss the art gallery at The Glasshouse, for its diverse exhibits. The collections that are being displayed here focuses on three areas: the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Art Collection, artworks of local artists, and touring exhibitions in partnership with Australian organizations. So, imagine the amount and the variety of arts you can see here. It is okay to be overwhelmed for the yearly exhibit is three years in the making. The arts that you’ll see here is very diverse, from paintings to sculptures, up to handicrafts, indigenous, designs, and more.
Glasshouse Port Macquarie
Address: 30-42 Clarence Street &, Hay St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Glasshouse Port Macquarie
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 7.50 USD
13. Challenge yourself at Centre of Gravity Indoor Adventure Centre
If you’re looking for a more active thing to do in Port Macquarie, then, why not have an energy consuming climb at the Center of Gravity Indoor Adventure Center? It is an indoor activity center that features 70 different climbs set that will suit people from ages three and above. It also has a laser tag arena which is only available if you booked ahead of time. This may be the ice breaker you needed from all the walking tours, historical exploration, and the beach.
Centre of Gravity Indoor Adventure Centre
Address: 52 Jindalee Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Centre of Gravity Indoor Adventure Centre
Opening hours: Sun: 11am – 4pm; Mon: 10am - 5pm; Tue: 10am – 9pm; Wed: 10am – 5pm; Thu: 10am – 9pm; Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am – 5pm, 7pm – 10pm
Price: 50 USD
14. Explore Port Macquarie Museum
Are you the kind of traveler who loves getting to know the history of the place, not just taking photographs of the picturesque sceneries? If so, you have to visit the Port Macquarie Museum with its 14 themed galleries, depicting the life of the early settlers up to present. But aside from the region’s history, they also have a temporary exhibit and guided tours for schools. In case you want to explore alone, there is a free audio guide for you to use.
Port Macquarie Museum
Address: 22 Clarence St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Port Macquarie Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am – 4:30pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 7 USD
15. Enjoy horseback riding at Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre
Poised just minutes away from the heart of the city, Port Macquarie Horse Riding Center offers horseback riding lesson for beginners and trail rides. The instructors here are highly skilled that you’ll surely learn in time. As for the trail ride, you’ll be navigating the scenic Cassegrain Winery Estate in New South Wales’ Mid North Coast. The center also accepts the family booking so make sure to make this a family activity when you’re in town.
Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre
Address: 764 Fernbank Creek Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre
Opening hours: 9am – 3pm (daily)
Price: 80 USD
16. Drink and make merry at Finnian's Irish Tavern
Founded in 1999, this Irish inspired local tavern is the go-to pub and bistro of the people of Port Macquarie. It has a chill ambiance with a wooden booth outside and serves quality burger and schnitzel. If you’re looking for a place to hang out with live music, you can never go wrong with Finnian’s Irish Tavern.
Finnian's Irish Tavern
Address: 97 Gordon St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Finnian’s Irish Tavern
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 11am – 11pm; Wed - Sat: 11am – 12am; Sun: 11am – 10pm
17. Take a stroll along Town Beach Breakwall
If you’re visiting Port Macquarie, the iconic breakwall is a must-see sight for you. It gives you a scenic view of the sunset and sunrise, the coastal, and the Hasting Rivers. This breakwall features colorful graffiti made by people who visited the place. But, apart from the breakwall, there are also lots of nearby amenities like a skate park, picnic area, kiosk, toilet facilities, and more, which is perfect if you’re coming with your family.
Town Beach Breakwall
Address: Town Green Foreshore, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, 2444
Website: Town Beach Breakwall
18. Enjoy roller skating at Planet X
If you’re looking for a place that will be enjoyed by each member of your family, then don’t think twice, and just head to Planet X. It is an indoor skating rink with laser tag, arcade games, inflatable jump castles, and kiosks for snacks and drinks. Aside from skating and having a pro instructor, the facility also offers yoga classes, skate fitness, and disco nights during Friday and Saturday. Moreover, they also accept parties and all you have to do is book in advance.
Planet X
Address: 10 Chestnut Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Planet X
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 11:30am – 4:30pm; Wed: 8:30am – 6:30pm; Thu: 11am – 6:30pm; Fri: 11:30am – 9:30pm; Sat: 11am – 9:30pm; Sun: 11am – 5pm
19. Go kayaking in Hastings River
One of the best things about Port Macquarie is its rivers. The Hasting River is a popular fishing spot. But, if you find that boring and want to do some water activity instead, which is not too extreme, then you have to try kayaking in the river. Do it with friends, or do it alone, it will be fun any other way. There are kayak rentals nearby so you don’t have to worry about the equipment. Also, make sure to take in the scenery while you paddle your way into the river.
Hastings River
Address: Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
Website: Hastings River
20. Enjoy an 'out-of-the-world' experience at Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory
Located at Rotary club in Town Beach, Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory is a great place to visit if you’re into astronomy. It is open every Wednesday and Sunday for public use, wherein you can use the 14 telescopes for stargazing. Aside from the viewings of the stars, the observatory also offers events throughout the year such as Sidewalk Astronomy, Cafe Astronomy, and children’s Christmas programs. Furthermore, the place is being managed by volunteers.
Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory
Address: Stewart St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory
Opening hours: Wed, Sun: 7:15 – 10pm (closed from Mon, Tue - Fri & Sat)
Price: 12 USD
21. Go on a camel safari
Located in Lighthouse Beach is Port Macquarie’s very own Camel Safari. There’s no need to go to the desert to experience riding a camel and no need to book ahead, all you need is to visit. You will be accompanied by an expert cameleer that will make your ride a breeze. Also, make sure to look out for whales and dolphins that play along with the waves.
Camel Safari
Address: Matthew Flinders Drive 2440
Website: Camel Safari
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 9.30am - 1pm (closed on Sat)
Price: 40 USD
22. Have fun with family at Hydro Golf & Putt-Putt
If you’re tired of the usual golf experience then you have to try Hydro Golf and Putt-Putt in Port Macquarie. This establishment is in a beautiful water setting with well-maintained, lush lawns, palm trees, and features a picnic area, which is great for the whole family. Also, here you can win special prizes like river cruises, dinner vouchers, and many more when you hit the many floating targets. During the game, you’ll not only be competing with yourself but with the water, making it more fun and exciting.
Hydro Golf & Putt-Putt
Address: Boundary St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Hydro Golf & Putt-Putt
Opening hours: 10am – 4pm (daily)
Prices: 13 USD
23. Get adventurous at Jet Fighter
Are you looking for a thrilling adventure while you’re in Port Macquarie? Then you have to book a flight at the Jetfighter base. Here, you will be riding a jet fighter over the beautiful scenery of Port Macquarie. You’ll also be amazed by the beautiful scenic views of its mountains and coastal area. In the open sky, it will be easy for the jetfighter to navigate and do its tricks. Don’t you worry about your safety, for the establishment features first-class hangar facilities and expert pilots to give you the best flight of your life.
Jet Fighter
Address: Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Jet Fighter
Price: 1,200 USD
24. Learn the art of making glass beads at Arthouse Industries
Are you a creative and into beaded jewelry or any wearable crafts or ornaments? If so, you have to visit the Arthouse Industries. It is a glass studio that features handcrafted gifts, unique clothing, beaded works, and other artworks, such as ceramics, mixed media, silver, glass, and more. It also has a gift shop where you can buy works of regional artists. In case you want to learn and see the process of making glass arts, you can attend workshops and demonstrations of Skye, who is an award-winning glass artist that concentrates in jewelry making.
Arthouse Industries
Address: 1/1 Murray St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Arthouse Industries
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
25. Go shopping at Port Central
If you’re wondering where the locals go shopping, then you have to visit Port Central. It is your one-stop shop for everything retail. It has Target and over 55 specialty stores for your convenience and preferences. Also, the place has over 850 parking slots and free WiFi throughout the property. Make sure you drop by before heading home to satiate that shopping urge.
Port Central
Address: 40 Horton St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Port Central
Opening hours: Mon - Wed, Fri: 9am - 5:30pm; Thu: 9am - 7:30pm; Sat: 9am - 4:30pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm
26. Have a fun night with friends at Wave Bowl
A family-owned entertainment center, Wave Bowl is something you’ll enjoy whether with family or friends. It features a boutique-like a bowling alley with 12 electronic scoring lanes, a bar, and karaoke rooms. Bowling section of the establishment has comfortable couches, bar seating options, and a lounge-like vibe. As for its licensed bar, it has a wide selection of beverages ranging from cocktails up to wines and cold drinks. Also, make sure you try their karaoke rooms and sing your favorite tune.
Wave Bowl
Address: 159 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Wave Bowl
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm
27. Catch a movie at Majestic Cinemas
You’re in Port Macquarie, you found out that your much-awaited film opens today, and you don’t know where to go. Don’t worry for Majestic Cinemas will make your viewing experience better than your usual cinema at home. It is a modern five-screen multiplex that is affordable and customer-friendly. Aside from the cinema, the establishment also offers a candy bar wherein you can buy your favorite snacks before the movie starts.
Majestic Cinemas
Address: Horton St &, Clarence St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Majestic Cinemas
28. Go on a vineyard tour
Apart from the natural wonders, Port Macquarie has to offer, it also boasts of beautiful vineyards worthy of exploring. If you’re looking for tours that will take you to these vineyard places, then don’t hesitate to contact Frankie’s Tours. They offer different kinds of tours, from the less traveled vineyard tour, to vineyard tours with waterfront dining and brewery visits, up to winery and craft beers tours. Choose among their many offerings that suit your preference before booking and have a wonderful day ahead.
Frankie's Tours
Website: Frankie’s Tours
Price: 99 USD
29. Have fun cycling at Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park
Nestled in Queens Lake State Forest Boony Hills, Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park features single track mountain bike trail that goes up to 60 km (37.28 mi) which is perfect for cross country mountain bike riding. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, the park has a trail that is just right for your difficulty level. Another good thing about the park is it is easily accessible via a car, for it is only a 20-minute ride from Port Macquarie.
Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park
Address: Spring Creek Rd, Bonny Hills NSW 2445, Australia
30. Enjoy live music and waterfront views at Zebu Bar & Restaurant
A trip to Port Macquarie wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of its iconic waterfront venues, Zebu Bar and Restaurant has a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere and features two areas. One is the cafe where you can dine all day long with coastal cuisine and American favorites. The other is the bar where you can sip your cocktails from the afternoon up until late at night. You’ll also love its contemporary interiors with luxe furnishing and glass, which will give you the spectacular view of the foreshore. Make sure to bring your family and friends when you visit for a more memorable dining experience.
Zebu Bar & Restaurant
Address: 1 Hay St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia
Website: Zebu Bar & Restaurant
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 7am – 10pm; Fri - Sat: 7am – 11:30pm
Lovely Port Macquarie
Whether you are looking for a summer adventure, a nature retreat, or just want a chill place to spend your holiday, then Port Macquarie is the place to be. The activities and thing to do here are wide and varied, ranging from extreme adventures like flying with jetfighters to whale and dolphin watching at the 19th-century Tacking Point Lighthouse. There’s more to this town than what it seems so make sure you explore and ask tips from the locals to get by. If you’re still undecided about this town, check out our list of the best things to do in Port Macquarie, Australia, for you to have a guide and an overview of what to expect. Make sure to tell us everything about your trip afterward.
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