Sea Acres National Park

Sea Acres National Park is a slice of ancient coastal rainforest clinging to the Port Macquarie headland, where a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk weaves through towering palms, strangler figs, and the calls of green catbirds. It’s an immersive, easy nature fix that feels a world away from the nearby beaches and cafés.

Highlights & What to See

• Rainforest Boardwalk – A 1.3 km elevated loop through one of the last remaining littoral rainforests in NSW. Keep an eye out for brush turkeys, lace monitors, and the occasional koala.
• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre – Start here for interpretive displays, a short film on the park’s ecology, and local Aboriginal stories about the land.
• Shelly Beach – A protected swimming cove right next to the park entrance, perfect for a post-walk dip or picnic.
• Guided Night Walks – Join a ranger-led tour (seasonal) to spot possums, owls, and glowing fungi under the canopy.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the boardwalk and visitor centre. It’s an ideal morning or late-afternoon stop – combine it with a swim at Shelly Beach and lunch at one of Port Macquarie’s waterfront cafés. If you’re keen on a guided walk, check the park’s schedule and allow an extra hour.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Just 5 minutes away, with its koala hospital, historic lighthouse, and bustling town centre.
• Kattang Nature Reserve – A short drive north for coastal heath walks and dramatic sea cliffs.
• Lake Cathie – A tranquil coastal lake ideal for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, 15 minutes south.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – About 45 minutes north, offering wild beaches and the iconic “Diamond Head” headland walk.

Please check official sources for current details.