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Things to do in Port Macquarie and surrounds

01 Jun 2026
5 minutes

Escape to Port Macquarie: where the coast meets adventure

The Greater Port Macquarie region on the NSW Mid North Coast is a slice of coastal paradise, conveniently perched midway between Sydney and Brisbane, with Newcastle just a relaxed three-hour drive away. From the bustling waterfront of Port Macquarie to the laid-back coastal communities of Bonny Hills, Lake Cathie, North Haven and Laurieton, this diverse region combines stunning beaches, lush hinterland, abundant wildlife and welcoming country charm.

There's plenty to discover. Walk the iconic Breakwall, hike to panoramic lookouts, cruise the Hastings River, explore charming villages, or spend your days beach-hopping along one of Australia's most beautiful stretches of coastline.

Travelling with little ones? Explore our guide to family-friendly Port Macquarie. Bringing your furry friend along? Check out our guide to dog-friendly Port Macquarie.

Outdoor activities

Walk the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk

  • Location: Town Green and Breakwall to Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
  • Length: Up to 9km one way
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Port Macquarie Coastal Walk - Destination NSW

One of the best ways to experience Port Macquarie's stunning coastline is along the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. Starting at the iconic Breakwall, lined with thousands of colourful painted rocks, the trail follows the coast past Town Beach, Rocky Beach, Nobbys Beach, Flynn's Beach and Shelly Beach before reaching Lighthouse Beach.

Along the way, discover dramatic headlands, secluded coves, pristine beaches and spectacular ocean views. It's also one of the best places in the region to spot dolphins year-round and migrating humpback whales during the season.

If you're short on time, the Breakwall itself is well worth exploring. Stretching along the mouth of the Hastings River, it's one of Port Macquarie's most photographed landmarks and the perfect place to start or finish your walk.

Hike to North Brother Mountain

  • Location: Dooragan National Park, Laurieton NSW 2443
  • Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 40 minutes south
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For breathtaking views across the coast and hinterland, head to Dooragan National Park near Laurieton and make your way to North Brother Mountain. The lookout offers sweeping panoramas over the Camden Haven region and is one of the area's most rewarding viewpoints.

Hit the beach

The region boasts some of the Mid North Coast's most beautiful beaches. Spend a day swimming or surfing at Town Beach, Flynn's Beach or Lighthouse Beach, explore Rainbow Beach at Bonny Hills, or make the short drive to Crescent Head, famous for its world-class point break and laid-back surf culture.

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Rainbow Beach, Bonny Hills - Ambassador Ethan Street

Beyond the popular beaches within Port Macquarie, visitors can explore Rainbow Beach at Bonny Hills, Grants Beach at North Haven and the beautiful shoreline around Lake Cathie, each offering its own unique coastal experience.

Explore the waterways

From the Hastings River to the Camden Haven River, the region's waterways are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and fishing. Popular launch spots include McInherney Park and Settlement Point in Port Macquarie, where calm waters make paddling easy for beginners, while Westport Park offers one of the region's most popular boat ramps for exploring the Hastings River. Further south, North Haven provides easy access to the Camden Haven River and surrounding waterways.

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Port Macquarie - Hastings River - Destination NSW

A sunset river cruise is a relaxing way to take in the scenery and local wildlife. Operators such as Port AdVenture Cruises offer relaxing experiences that combine beautiful scenery, local wildlife sightings and a unique perspective of the region.

Experiences

Visit the Koala Hospital

  • Location: Guulabaa – Place of Koala, Guulabaa Way, Lake Innes NSW 2446
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Port Macquarie Koala Hospital - Destination NSW

One of Port Macquarie's most iconic attractions, the Koala Hospital offers visitors the chance to learn about koala conservation and rehabilitation. It's a meaningful experience that provides a closer look at these beloved Australian animals while supporting an important cause.

Spot dolphins and whales

Keep your eyes on the water, and you're likely to spot playful dolphins year-round. During the annual migration season, humpback whales can often be seen breaching and cruising along the coastline from many of the region's headlands and lookouts. Our pick includes Tacking Point Lighthouse, Harry's Lookout and Gaol Point Lookout.

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Discover local galleries and creative spaces

The Port Macquarie region is home to a thriving creative community. Browse local galleries, artist studios and exhibitions showcasing everything from contemporary artworks and photography to handcrafted pieces inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Located in the heart of Port Macquarie, the Glasshouse is the region's premier cultural destination. Home to a theatre, regional gallery and exhibition spaces, it hosts a diverse program of visual arts, performances and community events throughout the year.

The Wauchope Creative Hub and local studios and Kendall's arts community are also worth stopping in with regular local art displays.

Experience Port Macquarie Camel Safaris

  • Location: Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
  • Drive from Port Macquarie CBD: Approximately 10 minutes

For a truly memorable experience, take a camel ride along the sands of Lighthouse Beach with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris. Operating daily, these guided beach rides offer a unique way to experience the coastline while enjoying spectacular ocean views.

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Port Macquarie Camel Safaris - Destination NSW

Explore the surrounding towns

History can be found throughout the region, from Port Macquarie's convict-era beginnings to the heritage buildings and historic town centres of Wauchope, Laurieton and beyond. Exploring these communities offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich maritime, agricultural and Indigenous history.

Bonny Hills

Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 20 minutes south

Known for its stunning coastal scenery and easy access to Rainbow Beach, Bonny Hills is a favourite for beach lovers, surfers and those seeking a quieter pace.

Lake Cathie

Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 15 minutes south

Where the lake meets the ocean, Lake Cathie is perfect for picnics, paddleboarding, kayaking and relaxing by the water.

Laurieton

Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 35 minutes south

Set on the Camden Haven River, Laurieton offers waterfront dining, boutique shopping and easy access to nearby beaches and national parks.

Wauchope

Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 20 minutes west

Rich in history and country charm, Wauchope is a great base for exploring the hinterland and discovering local cafés and heritage streetscapes.

Kendall

Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 40 minutes south-west

The charming riverside village of Kendall is known for its creative community, local galleries, artisan stores and monthly markets.

North Haven

Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 30 minutes south

Nestled between the Camden Haven River and the ocean, North Haven is a laid-back coastal town known for its waterways, fishing and boating.

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Boating in North Haven - Jack and Scout

Harrington

Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 55 minutes south

Located where the Manning River meets the sea, Harrington offers scenic waterways, fishing spots and easy access to Crowdy Bay National Park.

Crescent Head

  • Drive from Port Macquarie: Approximately 45 minutes north

Famous for its legendary point break, Crescent Head combines world-class surfing with coastal walks, stunning views and a relaxed village atmosphere.

Events and markets

No matter when you visit, there's always something happening across the Port Macquarie region.

What's on in Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie hosts a range of popular annual events that attract visitors from around Australia. Annual events include:

Throughout the year, community festivals, outdoor concerts and seasonal celebrations bring locals and visitors together. Check local event calendars during your stay to see what's happening while you're in town.

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Browse local markets

Markets are a fantastic way to experience the region's character, where you'll find fresh produce, artisan goods, handmade crafts, gourmet treats and plenty of local flavour.

  • Port Macquarie Foreshore Market, 2nd Saturday of every month, 8am–1pm
    • Location: Westport Park, Port Macquarie
    • Browse handmade arts and crafts, local produce, gourmet food, flowers and boutique stalls along the Hastings River foreshore.
  • Real Food Local Produce Market, Every Tuesday, 12pm–5pm
    • Location: Hay Street Forecourt, Port Central, Port Macquarie
    • Stock up on locally grown fruit and vegetables, artisan foods, baked goods and farm-fresh produce.
  • Laurieton Riverwalk Markets, 3rd Sunday of every month, 8am–1pm
    • Location: Bruce Porter Reserve, Laurieton
    • Set along the Camden Haven River, these popular markets feature local makers, gourmet treats, plants, crafts and community stalls.
  • Wauchope Farmers' Market, 4th Saturday of every month, 8am–12pm
    • Location: Wauchope Showground
    • Meet local growers and producers while browsing fresh produce, artisan products and handmade goods.

Eating, drinking and fresh produce

When it comes to good food and fresh produce, the Greater Port Macquarie region has plenty to offer.

Discover local cafés and restaurants

Port Macquarie's dining scene combines waterfront restaurants, beachside cafés and local breweries, making it easy to fuel up between adventures.

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Black Duck Brewery - Port Macquarie - Destination NSW

Some local favourites include:

Further south, Laurieton's main street offers a relaxed selection of cafés and eateries overlooking the Camden Haven River, while Beach Break Café in North Haven is a local favourite for coffee, breakfast and beachside charm. Bonny Hills also has a collection of cosy cafés perfect for a post-beach coffee or bite to eat.

Visit local producers

For those who love fresh produce, Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberries is a must-visit. Pick your own strawberries, stock up on vine-ripened tomatoes and enjoy delicious treats made from farm-fresh ingredients at the on-site café.

Nestled in the lush hinterland, Comboyne Farm Store showcases the best of the region's produce, from local cheeses and gourmet pantry items to freshly baked treats and farm-fresh ingredients. It's the perfect stop when exploring the scenic Comboyne Plateau.

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Comboyne Farm Store

Where to stay in Port Macquarie

Whether you're planning a coastal road trip, a romantic getaway or a relaxing holiday by the sea, the region offers accommodation options to suit every style of traveller.

Camping and caravan holidays

Pitch your tent or park your van at Reflections Bonny Hills or Reflections North Haven, where spacious sites and leafy surrounds provide the perfect base for exploring the Mid North Coast. With easy access to beaches, walking trails and local attractions, it's camping made easy.

Start planning your Port Macquarie getaway

From coastal walks and wildlife encounters to local markets, cultural experiences and beachside dining, Port Macquarie and its surrounds offer something for every kind of traveller. Whether you're staying for a weekend or settling in for a longer escape, you'll quickly discover why this beautiful corner of the Mid North Coast continues to capture the hearts of visitors year after year.

Where to stay near Port Macquarie

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