14 unforgettable things to do in Port Macquarie

Pristine beaches, sleepy coastal enclaves, a bustling foodie scene and lush hinterland offer a smorgasbord of things to do in Port Macquarie.

From well-known tourist magnets to hidden gems favoured by locals, Port Macquarie’s best itinerary fillers shine a light on the expansive beauty of the NSW North Coast. Whether you’re a sucker for breathtaking coastal trails, native wildlife encounters or deep diving into a place’s historical roots, the best things to do in Port Macquarie tick everyone’s boxes. 

1. Wander along the Breakwall

Breakwall in Port Macquarie — The breakwall is a popular spot for its colourful graffiti rocks. (Image: Destination NSW)

Even if this is your first Port Macquarie trip, you’ll likely recognise its iconic Breakwall from the postcards over the years. The long stretch of colourful graffiti rocks is filled with a collage of messages, tributes and written memories from visitors and locals that serve as a gallery of sorts, providing the means for all to share just how impactful their time in this coastal pocket of NSW has been.

It also serves as an entry point to the popular nine-kilometre Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, one of the best walks and hikes in Port Macquarie, which stretches from the Town Green to Tacking Point Lighthouse and Lighthouse Beach. Expect to spot marine life, bask in untamed beauty and chat with friendly locals casting their fishing lines off the rocks along the way.

2. Feast by the water

Book a spot at Whalebone Wharf for sweeping views and scrumptious seafood. (Image: Destination NSW)

While solid dining experiences for every meal of the day are peppered throughout town, the most magical plates come with water views. Whalebone Wharf is an institution, renowned for long, meandering seafood lunches overlooking the sparkling Hastings River, and there’s also The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant located at Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges on the marina, for special occasions among a sea of million-dollar yachts.

For more casual bites overlooking that shimmering blue beyond, Rydges Port Macquarie ‘s Zebu Bar & Restaurant , one of the best bars and pubs found in town, is always a scene, pumping out relaxed breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails for holidaymakers and locals alike.

3. Make new furry friends at Billabong Zoo

Get up close and personal to an array of Australian and exotic wildlife at the award-winning Billabong Zoo . From snow leopards, koalas and red pandas to reptiles, meerkats and cheetahs, more than 80 types of critters are ready to be petted, fed, held or simply admired via a schedule of personal encounters.

Learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about your favourites with regular zookeeper talks, which also detail the zoo’s passion for conservation including its world-renowned koala breeding program. More than 200 animals are cared for at this place, long-renowned as one of the most endearing wildlife parks in the country.

4. Support the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie — The hospital is dedicated to year-round koala care and conservation. (Image: Destination NSW)

Speaking of our cuddliest native creatures, the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is another excellent thing to do in Port Macquarie. After the 2019-2020 bushfires devastated the local koala population, this incredible organisation was met with an overwhelming wave of financial support from all over the world. A crowdfunding page raised money to purchase and distribute automatic drinking stations within burnt areas, but the page quickly amassed over $8 million from more than 150,000 donors.

Drop in to see the important work they do first-hand, and head over to the Koala Conservation Wild Breeding Visitor & Education Centre (which opened in December 2024) in the Cowarra State Forest (just a short drive away) to catch even more of their brilliance. The team named the latter state-of-the-art facility Guulabaa, which means Place of Koala in Indigenous language.  

5. Watch the sunrise at Town Beach

Travelling with someone inclined to sleep the morning away? A Port Macquarie sunrise is the best incentive to get them out of bed and Town Beach is a prime location to catch the day’s first rays. The location, one of the best Port Macquarie beaches and swimming spots, is protected from south winds, plus it’s close to the centre of town so getting there is a cinch. Pack a picnic blanket, wear warm clothes and prepare to sit back and take in some multi-hued glory. If you need some caffeine to get your travel companion going, The Salty Crew Kiosk is open from 6am every day.

6. Board a whale-watching cruise

Port Jet Cruises at Port Macquarie — Port Macquarie is one of the best places to view the yearly migration of humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Approximately 16,000 humpback whales migrate north along the coast of NSW each year from Antarctica to mate and give birth before returning for summer. As proven year after year, Port Macquarie is one of the best Aussie destinations to spy the majestic mammals in action.

Book one of the many whale-watching cruises that depart frequently throughout the season (May to November) for your best chance at spotting them in the water. The experienced skippers of Port Jet Cruises know the best viewing spots and will also feed answers to all your questions along the way.

Not budgeting a cruise into the mix this trip? There are several popular whale-spotting sites along the coast to take advantage of. The heritage-listed Tacking Point Lighthouse is a good vantage point, along with various spots on the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk and at Grants Head on the northern edge of Grants Beach.

7. Connect to your surroundings at the Port Macquarie Museum

Take a journey into the past at the Port Macquarie Museum . An eye-opening thing to do in Port Macquarie, particularly if you’ve run into a rainy day during your visit, the space charts the destination’s rich history as a British penal settlement, plus precisely how it became the tourist attraction it is today.

There are over 20,000 objects on display across several rooms and galleries, with the team committed to sourcing remarkable artefacts and materials since 1957. Think fascinating photos from a bygone era, donations from everyday life and special exhibitions that highlight significant moments in the region’s development.

8. Take a dip at one (or more) of the 17 pristine beaches

Flynns Beach in Port Macquarie — Flynns Beach is a picturesque paradise for surfers. (Image: Destination NSW)

Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to picnic, a dog-friendly place to walk, somewhere that’s 4WD-accessible or a place to learn how to surf, there’s a beach in Port Macquarie with your name on it.

Families flock to the patrolled shores of Lake Cathie to enjoy the inflatable slides and trampolines. Flynns Beach is also a popular patrolled beach that ticks kid-friendly boxes with its shaded picnic areas and kiosk. Surfers frequent Town, Lighthouse and Rainbow Beaches, while those seeking solitude make their way to Oxley and Shelly Beach for less-crowded options. Nobbys Beach, with its long stretches of sand, is the best dog-friendly spot in the area.

9. Pick fresh strawberries at Ricardoes

Call into Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries to experience the pleasure of picking your own plump, luscious fruit. Located just 10 minutes from the CBD back towards the Pacific Highway, Ricardoes grows five varieties of hydroponic strawberries and over 30,000 plants in their greenhouse. Join the free guided farm tours that depart 11am on weekdays or spend time meandering the enclosed stalls at your own leisure.

Once you’re done plucking your goodies, stroll through its retail centre which overflows with bags of tomatoes and punnets of strawberries, further fresh produce spanning lettuce, herbs, dark green spinach and freshly dug onions, local preserves and other gourmet delights. Standouts include Ricardoes’ tangy tomato relishes, rich tomato pasta sauces and conserves thick with whole berries.

10. Have a drink at The Beach House

Beach House in Port Macquarie — Relax by the waterfront at this charming coastal hotspot. (Image: Destination NSW)

Community comes alive at the legendary Beach House . This Port Macquarie pub boasts a contemporary menu, prime waterfront location and relaxed atmosphere that’s made even more inviting thanks to friendly locals always up for a chat.

This fabulous thing to do in Port Macquarie also serves as a top-notch hangout for a sunset drink, with patrons lingering well into the night on weekends. It’s also a popular space for events so there’s usually entertainment of an evening while you sip on a local brew or indulge in a hearty pub meal.

11. Wander around Bago Maze & Wine

Any place that combines wine with an enormous outdoor fun zone deserves our attention. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees, rolling countryside and acres of vines, Bago Maze & Wine is located a short scenic drive off the Pacific Highway, south of Port Macquarie.

Kids and adults alike are encouraged to wander, run and lose themselves in the stunning architecturally designed native lilly pilly hedge maze. Spend your day seeking out the magic of hidden bends, sunken pathways and beautifully landscaped gardens, only stopping to take in the serenity at the lookout towers. It’s one of the world’s largest hedge mazes, with over 2,000 metres of pathways to explore.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head up to the working vineyard and winery portion of the property. Perched on a hill, the cellar door and pergola overlook the maze and vineyard, making it the ideal spot to sit and take in the scenery. Enjoy a tasting and then relax with a glass of wine or coffee and indulge in a cheese or meat platter of local produce from around the region.

12. Take in the views of North Brother Mountain

If it’s accessible, panoramic views you seek, North Brother Mountain offers some of the best in the region. Situated in Dooragan National Park, its east coast vistas take in the magnificent Camden Haven Inlet and extend to Crowdy Head in the south, Mount Yarrahappini in the north and trace the Camden Haven River between Queens and Watson Taylors Lakes.

Pack your own lunch to take advantage of the picnic facilities on offer. There’s also an open lawn area where you can spread out and unwind while enjoying Port Macquarie’s most beautiful sights.

13. Explore the beach on the back of a camel

camels at Port Macquarie — Hop aboard one of Australia’s majestic camels. (Image: Destination NSW)

Strolling it on two feet is undoubtedly tranquil but Lighthouse Beach is arguably best experienced while perched upon a camel. Port Macquarie Camel Safaris offer a seriously serene experience, sending their foot-legged friends along the golden sand for a tour of the coastline as the sun sparkles in the morning.

The best bit? You don’t even need to book. It’s first-in, best-dressed, so if you’ve got a bit of time on your hands, simply queue up for a well-supervised, highly entertaining (and also educational, as a guide is on hand to offer facts and tales) spin.

14. Hunt a unique trail of koala sculptures

Hello Koalas sculpture at Port Macquarie — Each Hello Koalas sculpture is lovingly hand-painted by talented Australian artists. (Image: Destination NSW)

One of the best free things to do in Port Macquarie, the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail encompasses 91 fibreglass koala sculptures and it’s your job to spot them all. Spanning the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, the award-winning artistic street showcase is absolutely adorable, with designs inspired by everything from superhero characters and our national Surf Life Saving uniforms to high-profile Aussies and unique local communities. You can pick up a map of the trail at the Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop on Blackbutt Rd, or visit the website to download one.

Discover the best places to stay in Port Macquarie

Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

Savour the summer dining scene

Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire — Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

Dive into ocean pools

ocean pool on the sutherland shire — The ocean pools beckon.

Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

Experience local arts and culture

Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire — Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

Get into nature

Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney. — Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

Hit up the beautiful beaches

aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade — Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.