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.

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Thredbo in summer is a nature lover’s dream of show-stopping alpine beauty, cool mountain air and magical moonlit adventure.

For many of us, Thredbo calls to mind shimmering slopes and snow-dusted gums, but come summer, this Alpine resort transforms into a playground of an entirely different kind. A cool mountain retreat despite the season, Thredbo summer hikes are astonishingly beautiful, criss-crossing over dramatic peaks, pristine glacial lakes and abundant flora and fauna.

From approachable tracks for novice walkers to more challenging hikes across the Main Range and even journeys under moonlight, Thredbo puts on an unforgettable show of natural splendour all summer. Lace up your walking boots and take the chairlift from Thredbo village to embark on a self-guided exploration or a tour of the Snowy Mountains’ most compelling landscapes.

These eight unforgettable hiking experiences are only available in summer and offer an alpine adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

1. Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko

There’s something almost mystical about hiking by the light of a full moon. This guided experience begins with a 15-minute chairlift ride, where you’ll admire the Thredbo Valley below, bathed in the fading sun.

Once at the top, you’ll pass rivers, alpine lakes and spot nocturnal wildlife on your way to the Kosciuszko Lookout and Lake Cootapatamba. By the time you reach the summit, sunset is well underway as you watch day give way to night and the alpine landscape magically illuminated by the lunar glow. Enjoy a hot chocolate here before following the path back to Eagles Nest, brightened by the night sky.

This 13-kilometre hike will take place on 3 January, 2 February, and 2 April in 2026.

2. Super Full Moon Hike

Super Full Moon Hike in thredbo — Take in the might of a super full moon.

The only thing that could level up the celestial beauty of a full moon hike would be a super full moon hike . Following the same route, you’ll meet the moon when it is largest and closest to Earth by ascending to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2228 metres. From such a height, it almost feels as though you could reach out and touch its glowing surface.

Given the rarity and splendour of the super full moon, limited spots fill up fast for this awe-inspiring hike, so be sure to book the 5 December in advance.

3. Lunar Eclipse Hike

Thredbo Lunar Eclipse Hike — See dazzling celestial displays.

What could be more extraordinary than witnessing a lunar eclipse from Australia’s highest peak? Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply revel in nature’s beauty, this guided 13-kilometre hike will place you on top of Mount Kosciuszko just as Earth passes between the sun and moon, throwing shade over the lunar surface before transforming it with a deep-red hue.

It’s an epic place to witness one of our galaxy’s most spectacular and rare light shows. Apart from the dazzling celestial display, you’ll also enjoy walking through the moon-bathed landscape, an evening chairlift ride, and a hot chocolate at the summit.

Book now for 3 March.

4. New Moon Hike

New Moon Hike Mt Kosciuszko — Catch the changing skies of a new moon.

A stargazer’s delight, the darkness of a new moon gives the Milky Way full permission to dazzle with its shimmering display. Both astronomers and photographers will relish this opportunity to observe and capture the starry skyscape from the lofty height of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Departing Thredbo Village at dusk and leaving its twinkling lights far below, you’ll arrive at the summit in time to see the sun slip away and the stars appear.

Catch this hike during the new moon lunar phase on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.

5. Thredbo River Track

Embark on a gentle entry into the Snowy Mountain scenery with an amble along the Thredbo River. This self-guided hike hugs the river and wanders along the valley floor, revealing snow gum forests, swimming holes and little waterfalls that make for revitalising cold plunges in the summer heat.

6. Merritts Nature Track

Merritts Nature Track thredbo summer hikes — Stop at swimming holes along the way.

On warm summer days, venturing into the cooler air of Thredbo’s alpine tracks offers relief from the heat. Particularly if you set course for the four-kilometre Merritts Nature Track , where there are opportunities to take a refreshing dip in swimming holes along the way.

The two-to-three-hour self-guided hike meanders through towering ancient trees (dubbed the ‘Pixie Forest’ by locals), takes in stunning mountain vistas and is soundtracked by the melody of birdsong. Stop for a picnic and discover a hidden natural infinity pool, the location of which is given away by the roar of a cascading waterfall.

7. Mt Kosciuszko Summit Tour

Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko's summit. — Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.

While you can easily steer yourself to Australia’s most iconic peak without a guide, following an expert guide to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko will colour your experience with a deeper knowledge of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. The 13-kilometre return trail puts the alpine scenery on display with 360-degree views from the highest spot in the country.

The walk begins at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and takes around four to six hours to complete, but is gentle enough to be embarked upon by all ages.

8. Snowies Alpine Walk Experience

If you’re looking to truly untether from daily life and embark on a real immersion in Thredbo’s stunning alpine scenery, pack your hiking boots for the newest multi-day walk in the mountains. The Snowies Alpine Walk can be tackled over two or three days and includes nightly accommodation in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, daily buffet breakfast, packed lunch and dinner vouchers, plus daily transfers to and from trail heads in a brand-new Defender.

The two-day experience covers 24 kilometres, while the three-day experience almost doubles that at 44 kilometres. Along the way, explore barely trod landscapes, vast high-country plains and uplifting mountain horizons.

Discover the full offering of summer hikes in Thredbo at thredbo.com.au.