South Coast Wineries

South Coast Wineries is a laid-back wine region stretching along the scenic coastal hinterland between Port Macquarie and the Hunter Valley. Here, small family-run vineyards produce elegant cool-climate wines, particularly Semillon, Chardonnay, and Verdelho, with a growing reputation for Shiraz and Tempranillo. The cellar doors are unpretentious, often with sweeping views over rolling hills and eucalypt forests, making it a perfect detour for self-drivers craving a taste of local terroir without the crowds of bigger regions.

Highlights & What to See

• Cassegrain Wines – A standout producer with a striking cellar door and a restaurant serving modern Australian food; try their award-winning Semillon or the Verdelho.
• Long Point Vineyard – Perched on a hill with panoramic views, this boutique winery offers tastings of handcrafted wines and a relaxed picnic area.
• Bago Vineyard & Maze – A fun stop for families: sample their fruit wines and liqueurs, then wander the large hedge maze.
• Lake Innes Nature Reserve – Combine wine tasting with a short walk around the lake; keep an eye out for kangaroos and waterbirds.
• Heritage-listed Port Macquarie – The historic town itself, with its convict-built buildings and lively waterfront, is a natural base for exploring the wineries.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least half a day to visiting three to four cellar doors. If you want to linger over lunch at Cassegrain or explore the Lake Innes trails, allow a full day. The region is compact enough that you can easily combine a morning of tastings with an afternoon at Port Macquarie's beaches or a coastal walk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – The vibrant coastal hub with its historic sights, beaches, and the Koala Hospital.
• Wauchope – A charming country town with antique shops and the Timbertown heritage park.
• Camden Haven – A string of picturesque villages and waterways perfect for kayaking and fishing.
• Hat Head National Park – Dramatic coastal scenery with dunes, wetlands, and walking tracks.
• Kempsey – A historic river town with a strong Indigenous heritage and the Macleay Valley Museum.

Please check official sources for current details.