Port Macquarie Hastings Council

Contacts

FAQs

What can you expect from a visit to Port Macquarie?

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.

What are the major towns in the Port-Macquarie Hastings region?

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.

When’s the best time to go?

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.

How do you get to Port Macquarie?

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.

Is Port Macquarie family-friendly?

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.

Does Port Macquarie host famils?
  • 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.
What kinds of wildlife will I see on a trip to Port Macquarie?
  • 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!
What kinds of activities can I find in Port Macquarie?

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.

What can food lovers enjoy in Port Macquarie?

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.

Story Ideas

What's New

January 2023
  • 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