Tanglewood Track

Winding through a cathedral of towering flooded gums and ancient ferns, the Tanglewood Track is one of Port Macquarie's most enchanting bushwalks. This easy-to-moderate loop immerses you in a cool, green world where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy and the air smells of damp earth and eucalyptus. It's a favourite for birdwatchers and anyone craving a true coastal hinterland escape, just minutes from the beach.

Highlights & What to See

• Giant Flooded Gums: Marvel at these towering eucalypts, some over 60 metres tall, which create a natural cathedral along the track.
• Fern Gully: A lush section where the path winds through a dense understorey of tree ferns, mosses, and ancient cycads.
• Birdlife: Listen for the whip-crack call of the eastern whipbird and spot crimson rosellas, satin bowerbirds, and sometimes a lyrebird scratching in the leaf litter.
• Rainforest Boardwalk: A short boardwalk section keeps your feet dry while you peer into the clear waters of a small creek.
• Picnic Spot: A sheltered clearing with a bench halfway offers a peaceful place to rest and soak in the serenity.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow about 1–1.5 hours to complete the 2.5-kilometre loop at a leisurely pace, including stops for photos and birdwatching. You can easily fit this in as a morning or late-afternoon walk before heading to the coast. Pair it with a visit to the nearby Sea Acres Rainforest Centre for a deeper dive into the local ecosystem.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie Beaches: Town Beach, Flynns Beach, and Lighthouse Beach are all within a short drive for a swim or coastal walk.
• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre: A boardwalk through coastal rainforest with a canopy walkway and an Aboriginal cultural experience.
• Koala Hospital: A world-renowned wildlife hospital where you can see rescued koalas in a natural setting.
• Port Macquarie Coastal Walk: A stunning 9-kilometre path from Town Beach to Lighthouse Beach with ocean views and whale-watching opportunities.
• Hastings River: Explore the river by kayak or take a scenic cruise to spot dolphins and birdlife.

Please check official sources for current details.