Photo: MTV International / CC BY 3.0
Tomlinsons Park is a serene coastal reserve tucked away in Port Macquarie, offering a peaceful escape with sweeping ocean views and lush greenery. This small but beautifully maintained park is a favourite among locals for its picnic spots, walking paths, and direct access to a quieter stretch of beach. It’s the perfect place to unwind, breathe in the salt air, and watch the waves roll in without the crowds.
Highlights & What to See
- Coastal Lookout: Climb the gentle slope to the park’s lookout for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for whale watching (May–November) and sunrise photography.
- Sheltered Picnic Areas: Scattered benches and tables under shady trees make it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch with a view.
- Beach Access: A short path leads down to a uncrowded, patrolled beach – great for swimming, beachcombing, or a quiet stroll.
- Walking Trails: The park connects to the Coastal Walk, a scenic route stretching south to Tacking Point Lighthouse and north to Town Beach.
- Native Flora & Birdlife: Keep an eye out for coastal banksias, honeyeaters, and the occasional sea eagle soaring overhead.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour taking in the views and enjoying a picnic. If you plan to walk the coastal trail or spend time on the beach, allow 1.5–2 hours. It’s a lovely spot for a quick stop on a self-drive itinerary along the Port Macquarie coast.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Tacking Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse just a 20-minute walk south along the coastal path, offering more stunning ocean vistas.
- Port Macquarie Town Beach: A lively patrolled beach with cafes and amenities, a 10-minute drive north.
- Koala Hospital: A must-visit wildlife sanctuary in Port Macquarie, about 10 minutes by car, where you can see rescued koalas.
- Sea Acres Rainforest Centre: Explore a boardwalk through coastal rainforest, just 5 minutes’ drive away.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Tacking Point Lighthouse — Tacking Point Lighthouse qtl1.jpg : Quartl derivative work: Tomer T ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Port Macquarie Town Beach — Inas / CC0
- Koala Hospital — Diliff / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Sea Acres Rainforest Centre — Bild von bere von awstburg auf Pixabay https://pixabay.com/de/photos/die-dschungel-von-chiapas-1865639/ / CC0
- Coastal Walk — denisbin / CC BY-ND 2.0
- Port Macquarie — Inas / CC0