Port Macquarie City

Port Macquarie is a vibrant coastal city where the Hastings River meets the sea, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and laid-back seaside charm. With its stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and rich convict history, this is a destination that rewards exploration at every turn.

Highlights & What to See

• Tacking Point Lighthouse – Australia's oldest lighthouse (1879) perched on a dramatic headland; climb to the top for panoramic ocean views and whale-watching in season.
• Port Macquarie Coastal Walk – A stunning 9 km path from the lighthouse to Shelly Beach, passing through rainforest, rock platforms, and secluded coves.
• Koala Hospital – World-first facility dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of koalas; visit to see these iconic marsupials up close and learn about conservation.
• Hastings River – Explore by kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or a scenic river cruise; keep an eye out for dolphins and sea eagles.
• Port Macquarie Museum – Housed in a former convict barracks, this museum delves into the area's early penal settlement and Indigenous heritage.
• Billabong Zoo – A wildlife park with koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles; interactive experiences include feeding kangaroos and meeting a koala.

Suggested Time to Spend

Port Macquarie is ideal for a 2- to 3-day stopover. Spend the first day walking the coastal trail and visiting the lighthouse and Koala Hospital. On day two, take a river cruise or paddle, then explore the museum and nearby Billabong Zoo. If you have a third day, venture into the hinterland for rainforest walks at Boorganna Nature Reserve or a wine-tasting tour in the Hastings Valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Crescent Head – A laid-back surf village 30 minutes south, known for its point break and uncrowded beaches.
• Hat Head National Park – Spectacular coastal scenery, dunes, and walking tracks; a must for nature lovers just 40 minutes north.
• Wauchope – Charming country town on the Hastings River, gateway to the Werrikimbe National Park and home to the historic Timbertown.
• South West Rocks – A coastal town with the famous Trial Bay Gaol and superb snorkelling at Fish Rock Cave.
• Boorganna Nature Reserve – Ancient rainforest with towering red cedars, a short drive inland; great for a half-day hike.

Please check official sources for current details.