Port Macquarie Hastings Council
Contacts
FAQs
Port Macquarie is one of Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. Within an easy 4 hours’ drive north from Sydney, on the mid north coast of NSW, the region of Port Macquarie covers over 3,500 square kilometres of spectacular coastline and hinterland, with the picturesque CBD perfectly located on the water between the Pacific Ocean and the Hastings River.
The region boasts 17 gorgeous beaches, a lush hinterland, a diverse variety of attractions including the Koala Hospital, Billabong Zoo, river cruises, and a choice of accommodation from 4.5 star luxury hotels to camping by the beach. Top it off with one of the best year-round climates and a busy events calendar, it’s no wonder this is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations, and the friendly locals will welcome you with open arms.
Port Macquarie, Camden Haven, and Wauchope.
Port Macquarie – Boasting a relaxed coastal vibe, enjoy 9 picturesque beaches, many of them popular surfing spots and stunning waterways, award winning dining, wineries, noteworthy heritage, an abundance of outdoor nature activities, funky wine bars & cafes, art galleries and other cultural experiences.
Camden Haven – Known for its endless pristine waterways, natural beauty and as the ‘Valley of Villages’ the Camden Haven is south of Port Macquarie and takes in the villages of Lorne, Kendall, Kew, Laurieton, Dunbogan, North Haven and Bonny Hills.
Wauchope – A 20 minute drive into the hinterland from Port Macquarie, the beautiful rural township of Wauchope set on the Hastings River, is the gateway to waterfalls and outdoor adventure in 40,000 hectares of National Parks and State Forests, hobby farms and agriculture.
Port Macquarie has one of the best year-round warm climates and a busy events calendar, it’s no wonder this is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations with friendly locals who will welcome you with open arms.
By car – Port Macquarie is positioned on the New South Wales Mid North Coast, just off the Pacific Highway. Recent upgrades to the highway now make it an easy 4 hour drive from Sydney’s northern suburbs, and less than 3 hours from Newcastle. Travelling from Brisbane is a 7 hour drive. From western New South Wales, the Oxley Highway provides access from the New England Highway, Armidale and Tamworth in less than 4 hours.
By air – During normal periods of operation, Port Macquarie is approximately one hour flying time from Sydney or Brisbane. QantasLink and Virgin Australia provide daily flights between Sydney and Port Macquarie. Virgin Australia also provides daily flights between Brisbane and Port Macquarie.
Absolutely! From beaches to dining to coastal walks and more, there’s something for everyone in the family to love. Port Macquarie is the perfect family-friendly getaway.
Just a minute or so off the M1 roundabout – Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberries (free entry) is an ideal swift refreshment stopover along the road or an indulgence for all ages to while away several hours. Pick your own strawberries at shoulder height, for everyone from two to 102. Pay only for what you pick and add some cream from the shop!
For animal encounters, families can visit Billabong Zoo, take a free 3pm daily tour at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, check out nature at one of the many national parks including SeaAcres Rainforest, or experience whale and dolphin watching with Port Jet Cruises.
Let the kids unleash some steam at one of Port Macquarie’s 17 beaches, and enjoy the view from one of the many family-friendly cafes such as Salty Crew Kiosk.
You can check out an example 3-day family itinerary here: https://portmacquarieinfo.com.au/trip-ideas/family-friendly-3-day-itinerary.
- Yes, we host group and individual media and influencer famils throughout the year. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis; please register your interest.
- Did you know that we have some awesome wildlife encounters and sights for you to discover! Horse rides through bushland, camel safaris on the beach, whale watching cruises, and of course the cutest koalas to see up close. Billabong Zoo in Port Macquarie is home to over 200 animals, including 80 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds, plus we are the only destination to run a hospital that is solely dedicated to the care and protection of koalas!
No matter your interests and passions, Port Macquarie has something for you. From grabbing a delicious brunch at one of the many cafes, to taking a free tour at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital (the only of its kind in the world), Port Macquarie guests can enjoy a range of activities.
These include whale watching, camel riding, strawberry picking, maze exploration, wine tasting, exploring the Sea Acres Rainforest and the coastal walk, or just exploring the many beaches.
Visit the farmers markets, sample wines at the region’s cellar doors and end the day by enjoying local produce at award-winning restaurants. Visit a strawberry farm and pluck the freshest ripest berries from the vines, or visit an oyster lease and sample plump oysters direct from the estuaries. Cafes and restaurants are listed here: https://portmacquarieinfo.com.au/see-do/restaurants-cafes.
Sample Itineraries
Brochures
Story Ideas
Guulabaa Tourism Precinct: Home to Koala Conservation and Australia’s Largest Suspension Playground
In the Cowarra State Forest just a short drive from Port Macquarie, the tourism precinct known as Guulabaa (Place of Koala) is now home to Australia’s largest suspension playground, known as Wildnets.
Port Macquarie-Hastings: Home of Australia’s Best Country Pub (and more!)
Home of Australia’s Best Country Pub, New South Wales’s Best Chicken Parmi, and more! Port Macquarie’s award-winning food and beverage scene thrives at its many charming pubs.
Weaving our Stories As One – Wakulda
Wakulda, Weaving our Stories As One is an immersive, 10-minute, sound, and light projection onto the Port Macquarie Historic Courthouse which tells important stories from traditional owners of the land, the Birpai people, through to the current day of the Bicentenary of European settlement in April 2021.
The Perfect Taste of Port Macquarie
With so much to eat, see, and do in the Port Macquarie region, visitors may have a hard time deciding where to even begin. But never fear! New Taste Trails ‘Insider’s Guides’ make it easier to sample the region’s best experiences, including maps and drive times to help create the perfect (personalised) visit to the region.
Port Macquarie is Calling All Foodies!
Whether you’re a sun-riser or a star-chaser, Port Macquarie has a wealth of eateries and foodie experiences for gourmands. read more…
10 Ideas for Some Indoor Fun in Port Macquarie
From picking strawberries at Ricardoes and enjoying a stroll at SeaAcres Rainforest, to indoor rock climbing and roller skating. If it’s indoor fun you’re looking for, Port Macquarie has it all. read more…
Family-Friendly Activities for a School Holiday Trip to Port Macquarie
There’s so much for kids (and parents alike!) to do in Port Macquarie – here’s our round up of the top fam-friendly activities. read more…
Most Instagrammable Spots in Port Macquarie
The Port Macquarie-Hastings region is an absolute dream for those that love to share on social. Here’s our top spots to make your friends envious. read more…
10 Things to Do for Under $10 in Port Macquarie
The best things in life are free…or under $10! Check out these activities in Port Macquarie, which won’t break the bank. read more…
An Unexpected Wellness Weekender Destination
Port Macquarie is actually the perfect laid-back, coastal town that is the ultimate wellness weekend destination. read more…
Meet the Makers in Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie is home to an abundance of makers and shakers that bring a curated line up of both established and emerging creatives. read more…
Announcing Australia’s Go-to Foodie Destination
Calling all foodies! Whether you’re a sun-riser or a star-chaser Port Macquarie has a wealth of eateries and foodie experiences for gourmands. read more…
Surprising things you didn’t know you could do in Port Macquarie
Lush vineyards, pristine beaches, spectacular sunsets and cascading waterfalls – Port Macquarie is every budding photographer, nature lover, adventurer, and foodie’s dream. read more…
Bohemian Rhapsody Starring Thomas Crane Takes On Port Macquarie
Thomas Crane and his band of incredibly talented musicians not only bring the musical genius of Queen to life on stage but also embody the flamboyance and unique personalities of Freddie and the entire band.
Moonlight Movies in Port Macquarie
Movies under the stars, blankets, snacks, and good vibes. This event comes to Port Macquarie showing a film on a 6m X 3.2m screen, a Family Favourite PG film.
Sunrise Beach Yoga in Port Macquarie
Start your morning right with yoga on the beach on a beautiful Town Beach. Join in on the 30 minute session with qualified instructors whilst soaking up the sound of the waves, sunrise vibes and body wellness. No booking required – just turn up!
What's New
-
Port Macquarie improves access to popular lighthouse & whale viewing spot.
January 27 One of Port Macquarie’s’ most iconic features is the popular lighthouse which now has a new boardwalk with viewing platforms for tourists to get an even better view. Creating an accessible addition to the whale-viewing point also, a must visit while in Port Macquarie.
Learn More -
Unique riverside accommodation open now!
January 30 Camp Jordan has opened in Port Macquarie, a new outdoor accommodation located on the banks of Hastings River. Unique bell tents, cabins, and airstream caravans offered to stay in surrounded by stunning beaches, diverse attractions, the iconic Koala Hospital and refreshing coastal walks, as well as a few minutes’ drive from the buzz of the town centre. An expansion of Jordans Boating Centre & Holiday Park, Camp Jordan offers the perfect holiday location with paddle boarding, kayaking, boat hire, BBQ spots and much more.
Learn More -
'Big Oyster' changes hands and offers new exciting things!
January 1 After changing hands, ‘Big Oyster’ previously known as ‘The Shuck Shack’ has one over the locals with its new BYO option whilst indulging in fresh seafood overlooking the stunning river. Check out more here: The Big Oyster | Fernbank Creek NSW | Facebook
Learn More
Images
Video
Training
Fams
Coming soon
Events
Coming soon