8 of the best Port Macquarie markets to aimlessly wander

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Embrace sea-to-stall produce, locally crafted treats and a warm, relaxed ambience at the best Port Macquarie markets. 

The NSW North Coast dazzles with fresh, coastline-coddled indulgences — the only issue you’ll run into is sampling them all in a single trip. Cue a top-notch collective of Port Macquarie markets, stacked with the region’s most sensational produce in one convenient spot, as well as boho-inspired and vintage fashion, thoughtful gifts, crafty accessories and beach-inspired interiors to help take your holiday home with you. Grab the reusable shopping bags — your market trail starts here. 

1. Real Food Markets 

Real Food Markets
Score the best deals from local artisans.

Consider yourself a true local if dropping into Real Food Markets is on your to-do list. One of the few Port Macquarie markets to pop up weekly, the buzzing haven of locally grown fruit and veg, locally blended condiments, baked goodies, pasture-raised meat and eggs, and vivid blooms, is a one-stop shop for foodies. Whether you’re scheming the week’s groceries for your exceptional Port Macquarie accommodation or just keen to check out what nearby farmers are renowned for, this spot is always rewarding.  

Where: Glasshouse Forecourt, corner Clarence and Hay Streets, Port Macquarie 

When: Every Tuesday, 12pm – 5pm 

2. Port Macquarie Art Society Markets 

Another weekly event to add to your itinerary, the Port Macquarie Art Society Markets are staged within the heritage grounds of Hamilton House — so visiting offers a bonus historical immersion, too. There’s always locally made arts and crafts to comb through, plus there’s often homemade food and condiments, and a scattering of local produce. This Port Macquarie market is an initiative run by the local art society which brings together the region’s most established and budding creative talents to showcase their work and develop their craft. 

Where: Hamilton House, 198 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 

When: Every Sunday, 8am – 1pm 

3. Kendall Bazaar 

Kendall Bazaar
Shop handcrafted goodies for a cause.

Less than 30 minutes’ drive south of Port Macquarie lies the Kendall Bazaar, a weekly market organised by local volunteers to raise funds for the suburb’s much-adored community centre. Unsurprisingly, community spirit flows freely as local artisans, suppliers and farmers converge to sell peak produce, bric-a-brac, hand-made clothing, relishes, sauces and additional spoils. There’s also coffee and cake on hand, plus undercover spots to sit back and savour your morning tea peacefully. 

Where: Kendall Community Centre, 19 Comboyne St, Kendall 

When: Every Thursday, 9am – 12pm 

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4. The Foreshore Market 

The Foreshore Market
There’s something for everyone, from food to clothes and plants.

Moving on to the semi-regular Port Macquarie markets, The Foreshore Market is a local institution, showcasing the beautiful handiwork of local creatives to the soundtrack of regular live music. The setting itself is also a drawcard, right up against the shimmering Hastings River, but it’s typically this event’s signature chilled out vibes that keep visitors flocking. Expect endless temptations spanning gourmet baked goods and meals, fresh produce and flowers, vintage fashion, jewellery, arts and crafts and more.  

Where: Westport Park, 18 Park St, Port Macquarie 

When: 2nd Saturday of every month, 9am – 2pm 

5. Wauchope Farmers Market 

Wauchope Farmers Market
Find handcrafted treasures for gifting others or yourself.

You’ll need to jump in the car for about 20 minutes and head inland but the journey to Wauchope Farmers Market is worth it. A magnet for the most acclaimed local farmers and producers, the low-key hot spot features delicious locally sourced ingredients including fresh seafood, arts and crafts, native flowers and plants and the odd clothing stall. Breakfast and quality coffee are also dished up to crowds that thoroughly explore the space each and every month.   

Where: Wauchope Showground, 93a High Street, Wauchope 

When: 4th Saturday of every month, 8am – 12pm 

6. Laurieton Riverwalk Markets 

Laurieton Markets
The market has been operating for two decades now.

Another Hastings region winner about 30 minutes’ drive from Port Macquarie proper is the Laurieton Riverwalk Markets, located south of town. Pulling thick crowds to the boardwalk of Camden Haven River once a month, the market has been running for more than 20 years — so consider it a shoppers’ non-negotiable. The stalls are slick, offering charming handmade homewares, crockery, fashion, records, sweets, hot food, quirky collectables and more. There are about 200 stalls in total, so get there early to scan the entire lot at a real snail’s pace.  

Where: Corner Tunis and Short Streets, Laurieton 

When: 3rd Sunday of every month, 8am — 1pm 

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7. Johns River Country Market 

Johns River Country Market
Pick up a range of old wares, homemade items, local crafts, paintings, folk art, leadlight ornaments, and plants. (Image: Joe Godwin)

Set across spacious, grassy grounds in the rural suburb of Johns River, the Johns River Country Market offers a little teaser into the charms of this tight-knit community. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Port Macquarie’s town centre, but you’ll be rewarded for your efforts via a string of stalls that have been operating for more than 25 years. You’ll find vintage collectables, homemade arts and craft, local fruit and veg, bric-a-brac and Devonshire Tea offered by the Trustees of the Johns River Community Hall. There’s also a playground on hand to tire out your littlies. 

Where: Johns River Community Hall & Recreation Reserve, Johns River Rd, Johns River 

When: 2nd Saturday of every month, 8am – 12.30pm 

8. Crescent Head Community Markets 

Crescent Head Community Markets
Quirky items await market visitors. (Image: Donna Amber)

Venture up north for just under an hour to discover one of the prettiest markets in the region. The once-monthly Crescent Head Community Markets pulls visitors from all over the coast so expect a mix of laidback locals and holidaymakers. Handmade clothing, homewares, jewellery and other decorative treasures are the speciality here, while home-grown produce (including fresh seafood), jams and preserves, surf gear (you’re right on the beach, after all), and second-hand items are also dotted throughout. 

Where: Crescent Head Beach Reserve, Reserve Rd, Crescent Head 

When: 2nd Sunday of every month, 8am – 1pm 

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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8 reasons it’s time to explore Lismore’s vibrant villages

(Image: Visit Lismore)

    Angela Saurine Angela Saurine
    Think you know Lismore? Think again. From pop-up feasts to a buzzing nightlife to a thriving arts scene, discover a new side of the Northern Rivers.

    Scratch beneath the surface of Lismore and its surrounding villages and you’ll discover a side of the Northern Rivers many travellers don’t expect. Here lies a region bursting with creativity, where vibrant street art, innovative eateries and enriching cultural experiences shape everyday life. Best of all, it’s authentic, and can be enjoyed without the crowds. Here are eight reasons why it deserves a closer look.

    1. Nights come to life

    Lismore's vibrant villages have Patrons enjoying a night out at Eltham Hotel.
    Stay out a little longer and experience the vibrant nightlife. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    The Lismore region stirs after the sun sets, with wine bars, pub gigs, pop-up dinners and live music events at atmospheric country pubs and halls. The Eltham Hotel is a hinterland institution, its verandah regularly echoing with rootsy live music. Nimbin Bush Theatre’s Sonic Bloom nights bring pop-up dinners, films and DJ sets. The Channon Tavern hosts weekend sessions, while Il Carretto’s pizza nights fill Clunes Cafe on Thursday nights and Bexhill Hall on Fridays. Rider Taco Pop Up also brings a laid-back Mexican feast to Clunes, where guests spread out on the grass or gather in the old hall to share freshly made tacos.

    2. A thriving arts and culture scene

    Racing on Molesworth Steet, Lismore for the BBCC Lismore Cycling Festival. Lismore's vibrant villages is filled with murals.
    Follow the Art & Culture Trail. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    The Northern Rivers has long attracted artists, makers and free thinkers, and nowhere is that creative energy more evident than in Lismore and its neighbouring hamlets. The city’s Art & Culture Trail shines a spotlight on the city’s flourishing arts scene, linking galleries, studios and public art across the region. Start at the Lismore Regional Gallery, which has a dynamic mix of contemporary works and community-focused exhibitions. Also keep an eye out for events at The Quad, an open-air space that lights up with live music, projections and family-friendly events. Beyond the city, discover the colourful street murals of Nimbin, browse local art at Blue Knob Gallery or get your hands dirty during a clay workshop at Silt Studio.

    3. Boutique shopping

    Inside Two Ravens Antiques & Collectables in Lismore's vibrant villages.
    Uncover one-of-a-kind finds. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    For travellers who love discovering independent labels and one-of-a-kind finds, Lismore and its nearby villages offer a treasure trove of boutiques. Here, you’ll find everything from clothes and hand-crafted trinkets to books and homewares, each store reflecting the personality of its makers and curators. Highlights include Hanging Rock Flowers, where seasonal blooms meet beautifully chosen artisan gifts, and Two Ravens Antique and Vintage, where a collection of objects whisper stories of the past. Little Polli and the Blackbird offers whimsical fashion and homewares, while Folk Modern champions eclectic textiles and global finds and Valley of the Craftsmen showcases refined handmade artistry.

    4. Diverse food offerings

    Bartenders at the The Levee Lounge and Bar, Lismore
    Settle in for an evening of great drinks and live tunes. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    Lismore’s dining scene is celebrated for its paddock-to-plate produce, global cuisines and cafe culture. At Two Mates Brewing small-batch beers are crafted for easy afternoons, often best enjoyed with a food truck bite, while The Levee Lounge and Bar brings a touch of Melbourne-style polish to town, with cocktails and wine served against the hum of live music.

    Heritage bones meet a modern buzz at The Bank Cafe & Espresso, while smoked meats and fried chicken take centre stage at The Stockpot Kitchen. Housed in a former butter factory, Channon Tavern is the ideal place to while away the day on the grass by Terania Creek, and the The Eltham Hotel offers an upscale food menu with old school charm.

    Find Annies Country Bakery in Modanville on Lismore’s Great Pie Trail, serving award-winning pies, open every day, it’s a great stop on a scenic drive on route to nearby national parks and Rocky Creek Dam. Or pop into Clunes Cafe for regular hosted dinners, each with its own unique flair. Listen to live music while you’re there, and maybe even join in a line dance.

    5. Alternative lifestyles reign

    Streetscape of Nimbin with buskers, Northern Rivers
    Discover a place where freedom, art and community are part of everyday life. (Image: The Legendary Pacific Coast)

    This area has long been a free-spirited community, where counterculture values and creative expression shape everyday life. Its roots trace back to the 1973 Aquarius Festival, when thousands gathered in the hills near Nimbin and the one-time dairy town’s once-quiet streets were painted in kaleidoscopic colour. Many never left, establishing communes and laying the foundations of a community built on sustainability and freedom. Events such as the annual Nimbin MardiGrass festival keep its activist, grassroots spirit alive, while continuing to welcome diverse travellers in search of something a little different.

    6. Breathtaking nature on the doorstep

    Person enjoying a walk through the rainforest in Nightcap National Park.
    Step into a world of ancient forests. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    Lismore acts as the gateway to some of Australia’s most spectacular ancient Gondwana rainforests and untouched wilderness. Nearby Nightcap National Park offers UNESCO-listed rainforest walks and waterfalls, while Rocky Creek Dam is a tranquil spot for picnics and birdlife – and you may even spot a platypus if your timing is right. Whian Whian State Conservation Area reveals lush subtropical trails and hidden swimming holes, while the Northern Rivers Rail Trail winds through farmland and forest, passing historic railway bridges along the way.

    7. Boutique stays

    Contained in Nimbin Accommodation.
    Experience award-winning eco stays. (Image: Contained in Nimbin)

    Accommodation in the Lismore region tends to favour character over gloss, with stays that trade uniform luxury for a stronger sense of place and personality. Lismore Gateway Motel and Invercauld House offer easy comfort close to Lismore CBD, while The Eltham Hotel pairs a lively pub atmosphere with individually designed rooms that reflect the building’s heritage character. Nightcap Ridge secluded luxury eco retreat and Rummery Park Campground in Whian Whian State Conservation Area, and Contained in Nimbin’s award-winning eco cabins, all bring you closer to nature.

    8. Form community connections

    Crowds enjoying the Lismore Lantern Parade on the North Coast.
    Celebrate winter solstice at the Lismore Lantern Parade. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    If you are wanting to immerse yourself more in the community, there are some standout events that embrace Lismore’s individuality. Lismore is known for its markets, so they’re a great place to start. The fire twirling at Lismore’s weekly Thursday produce markets makes for a particularly fun spectacle.

    Friday Meet and Make offers relaxed crafting at The Artisans Table, while Fire Twirling in The Quad delivers a high energy evening spectacle. The legendary Tropical Fruits New Years Eve Festival is a bold celebration of inclusion; Lismore Lantern Parade glows through streets with handmade lanterns on the winter solstice and Italian festival LisAmore! brings music and romance to the town.

    Start planning the ultimate getaway at visitlismore.com.au