Things to do in Port Macquarie

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Port Macquarie

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Things to Do in Port Macquarie

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Koala Hospital, Coastal walk, Gardens, Wineries & Vineyards. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Top Attractions in Port Macquarie

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Koala sanctuary with close-up views of these marsupials, interactive displays, and the historical Roto House nearby. Provides insight into conservation efforts and koala biology.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Coastal walk featuring a blend of bush and beach trails, panoramic ocean vistas, and historical lighthouses, complete with challenging terrain for a rewarding workout.
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Historic lighthouse with panoramic coastal views, ideal for sunrise and sunset photography. Seasonal whale watching and a short scenic walk complement this serene spot.
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Rustic farm atmosphere where guests can pick hydroponic strawberries and tomatoes, complemented by an array of homemade jams, relishes, and sauces amidst artisan goods.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks

Scenic riverside walk adorned with a gallery of painted rocks, lively with dolphin sightings and water activities. Historical significance in local dedications.
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Museum with detailed, curated exhibits on local history, from penal colony roots to Indigenous cultures, providing an educational journey through themed displays.
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Other Top Attractions around Port Macquarie


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What travellers are saying

  • livwanders
    Sydney, Australia226 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We really enjoyed our visit to the Koala hospital and learned so much from Mick, what an amazing and passionate man! He was telling us all about how they rescue, rehabilitate and release (if possible) the koalas and he knew the answers to all of our questions. I absolutely loved how all of the Koalas were named after the place they were found and also the person who rescued them. I’d definitely recommend a visit here!
    Written 19 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Scott D
    Gosford, Australia46 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We recently completed the stunning coastal walk around Port Macquarie as a group of three—my wife, a friend, and myself. Although my wife has rheumatoid arthritis, she managed to complete the walk without too much difficulty. There are some steep climbs, particularly toward the end near the lighthouse, which include a series of stairs, so it’s worth noting that while the path can be challenging, it’s still accessible with some determination.

    The walk itself offers a variety of beautiful scenery. We spent some time walking on the soft sand around Shelly and Miners Beaches. Shelly Beach was particularly memorable, as we stopped for a refreshing swim in the clear waters—definitely one of the highlights of the day.

    One thing to note is that despite some signage suggesting otherwise, Miners Beach has separate signs banning nudity, which is worth keeping in mind if you're planning to visit.

    Water stations are plentiful along the route, making it easy to stay hydrated, which is a nice touch, especially on warmer days. All in all, this walk is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the area, with the perfect mix of coastal views, beach time, and a bit of a workout. Highly recommended!
    Written 30 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sue H
    Brisbane, Australia29 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Small and easy to move around a family owned Zoo. Friendly staff, healthy animals well cared for and loved by their handlers.
    Written 29 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Carolyn Burcham
    Orange, Australia527 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    My friend & I went for a drive out to see the Lighthouse at Port Macquarie & it was fantastic. It look like it had all been re fenced & the Lighthouse was re painted, which looked lovely, with a whale splashing his tail against the ocean.
    As I am on a wheelie walker my friend walked up to the latest & she was having a lovely time seeing all around the Lighthouse.
    Written 4 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Zack
    Port Macquarie, Australia19 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Going on the Sea Acres nature walk was a nice time when I went with my partner, we learned a lot about the nature within from the signage and saw some of the local fauna from the walk always, however the pricing of actually going on the walk is a lot more than what I feel it was worth. The cafe was nicely priced for what was offered, and the seating was numerous but not clustered. Worth going on the walk once, with the occasional visit to the cafe.
    Written 16 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Carmen G
    Sydney, Australia275 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    What a wonderful experience picking our own strawberries! They were one of the best I’ve ever had. The tomatoes were excellent, too. I highly recommend stopping by!
    Written 24 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Zack
    Port Macquarie, Australia19 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Walking along the Breakwall in Port Macquarie is a nice opportunity to take in dolphin-season at sunset as they are always coming up very close to the walkway. The only issue with the walk is the fact that the path is not wide enough, often needing to walk awkwardly on the hill for groups more than 3 coming from the other direction.
    Written 19 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Carmen G
    Sydney, Australia275 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A charming museum with a rich collection of local history and artifacts. The exhibits are well-curated, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. A great stop for anyone interested in the history of Port Macquarie!
    Written 24 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Elizabeth R
    9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I loved Long Point Vineyard. There is art to view and purchase and wine tasting. The grounds are beautiful.
    I loved the wines and cheese platter.
    Nicky the sommelier was very friendly and helpful.
    My friends and I thoroughly enjoyed our time at Long Point Vineyards. If you come to Port Macquarie I recommend you visit Long Point Vineyard as only a short drive away and should not be missed.
    Written 28 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Dennis A
    Umina Beach, Australia232 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    In Koala Town I was pleased to find National Parks have preserved the stately turn of last century home of the Flynn Family ( not related to the Flying Doctor). It took some doing to restore the outside verandah and restump the house to bring the house into its former condition. A lot of research has been well reconstructed and original family artefacts reunited with the home like a wicker chair that is over 100 years old and a golf score card and clubs from the sporty ladies of the house Nora and Kate from Wauhope Golf Club 12th Nov 1905.
    Certain acidic reviewers decry the limited original furniture and fittings but I for one feel there is more than enough to catch the transient population of marauding tourist invaders.
    The Roto house has became an exhibition hall for artists and local crafts people to parade their works and the grounds are kept in top curated order to enjoy the coffee and light meals provided by a niche cafe and mobile van.
    Free admission and unhurried access make it a top choice and with the Koala Hospital on the doorstep next door you have doubled pleasure from one parking.
    Written 4 April 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Brayden S
    Kyabram, Australia4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Black Duck Brewery is a hidden treasure of Port Macquarie. The beers are cheap, the pizzas are great and the live music was brilliant.
    Written 5 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mairwen1
    United Kingdom12,096 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Hastings River is the wide, picturesque river, that runs through Port Macquarie.
    There are many ways to enjoy the river and it’s not uncommon to see dolphins, pelicans and other seabirds here.
    The easiest way to explore the river is to walk along the rocky break wall that runs beside it and finishes at where the mouth of the river meets the sea at Town Beach.
    This is a very scenic and popular walk. The path along the break wall is level and flat so you can take a pushchair. At the Town Beach end visitors and locals have turned the rocks into something of an outdoor gallery. Some have created colourful, fun artwork, others have simply left their mark and some serve as memorials.
    Above Town Beach, the Gaol Point Lookout offers sweeping views down over the river and break wall.
    For river-side dining, I can recommend The Whalebone. We had dinner here one evening and made sure to book window seats table overlooking the river. It was very lovely.
    At the other extreme, The Big Oyster, was great too. A rustic, blue shack, The Big Oyster is built out over the river and sells fresh seafood which you can eat on their floating pontoon or take away.
    If we’d had more time in Port Macquarie, we’d have taken the punt across the river. You can drive your car onto the ferry and have a look around on the other side. It’s only a short trip (10 mins), you buy your ticket on the ferry and they run on a loop without a set timetable so it’s an easy thing to do on the spur of the moment. We have done it in the past but we didn’t have time this trip.
    Written 19 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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