8 breathtaking walks and hikes in Port Macquarie

Discover the region’s boundless beauty at your own pace with the most captivating walks and hikes in Port Macquarie.

Beaches, wildlife, rainforest and spectacular coastline – everything shifts into vivid focus on any well-positioned NSW North Coast hiking route. But when it comes to the expansive, picturesque beauty of the Hastings Region, Port Macquarie and its surrounds are the ultimate place to be. Here, find all you need to know about the best walks and hikes in Port Macquarie and nearby.

Easy hikes in Port Macquarie

Looking for an easy hike in Port Macquarie? These trails are relatively smooth, with very few obstacles or elevation gains, and are suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Some even feature wheelchair access.

1. Kooloonbung Creek Walks — Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 3 minutes

Its prime location and ease of accessibility make Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park ’s two individual walks worthy of exploration by people of all abilities and fitness levels.

Koalas, sugar gliders, lizards, flying foxes and over 165 known bird species have been sighted within the park, providing ample opportunity for animal-spotting along the way. There is also a historic cemetery that dates to 1821, home to the graves of notable early colonisers. The Cath Le Page Arboretum, or the Garden of Trees, also contains several native trees that are endemic to the area.

Choose Circuit 1 or Circuit 2. The former clocks in at 2.3 kilometres and takes about 45 minutes to complete. It contains some steps, so prams and wheelchairs are unfortunately too tricky to navigate. The latter is a 1.3-kilometre trail that takes about 25 minutes to do and, again, is not suitable for wheeled transportation.

Distance: Either 2.3 kilometres or 1.3 kilometres — or combine them for one epic trek.

Getting there: The park boasts ten access points with two located off Circuit 1 on Gordon St, right in the centre of town.

Accessibility: None

Facilities: Circuit 1 features two sheltered picnic tables (there aren’t any along Circuit 2) and there are toilets and an information board near the cemetery off Gordon St.

2. Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 10 minutes

This walk in Port Macquarie , located within Sea Acres National Park, will guide you to a rainforest canopy, rising seven metres above the forest understorey to help you marvel at the magic from above. The boardwalk platform begins at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre where you can mentally prepare to encounter rainforest birds, goannas and the mostly harmless diamond python.

Take the time to read educational resources that shine a light on the park’s threatened resident species, signposted along the way, as well as the significance of this habitat to the Indigenous Biripai people. The original custodians used the walking stick palm as a travel aid and made weapons from the python tree, which is the second hardest wood in the world.

Distance: 1.3 kilometres

Getting there: From the centre of town, head south on Pacific Drive until you hit Sea Acres Rainforest Centre at the entry to Sea Acres National Park just after Shelly Beach Rd.

Accessibility: Yes, as the trail is mostly flat and there are no steps. Two accessible car parks at the entry, plus an accessible toilet at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre.

Facilities: The Sea Acres Rainforest Centre has toilets and there are five bench seats dotted along the walk.

3. Grants Beach Coastal Walk

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 25 minutes

Eucalyptus, paperbark and banksia woodlands offer plenty for nature lovers to marvel at along the Grants Beach Coastal Walk, particularly in late winter and early spring when native flowers are in bloom. The glorious stretch begins at North Haven alongside the Camden River, passes by Grants Beach and ends at Grants Headland in Bonny Hills.

This popular trail is also a great way to kick off your hiking adventures in Port Macquarie as it’s considered an entry-level option. Ensure you take lots of water, as there are no shops or amenities along the route.

Distance: 7.4 kilometres return

Getting there: Head out of Port Macquarie and drive south to North Haven. The entrance is located on The Parade, near the mouth of the Camden Haven River.

Accessibility: None — the trail is sandy at many parts.

Facilities: None

4. Old Bottlebutt Walking Track  

Old Bottlebut Walking Track — The track meanders through an area of remnant rainforest. (Image: Destination NSW)

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 30 minutes

Old Bottlebutt is a Port Macquarie legend found within the Boorganna Nature Reserve. The incredible tree is the largest Red Bloodwood in the Southern Hemisphere and the family-friendly Old Bottlebutt Walking Track will escort you right to it.

This walk will take you through rainforest, creek crossings and footbridges to meet the 200-year-old beauty. Once you arrive at the viewing area, marvel at the magic of one of the most unique towering wonders in the country.

Distance: 600m loop

Getting there: Punch Wauchope into your Maps and when you get there, travel south on Bago. Rd another 10 kilometres before turning left onto Internal Break Road and following the signs.

Accessibility: Yes, it caters for visitors with access needs including wheelchairs.

Facilities: None, but the trail starts at the Burrawan Picnic Area which has toilets and picnic tables.

Moderate hikes in Port Macquarie

If you’re keen for a more challenging walk and hike in Port Macquarie, these picks feature steeper climbs and obstacles to be navigated with caution. Some parts may be wheelchair accessible, but most will have limited accessibility considering the elevation gains. They are suitable for people with intermediate fitness levels.

5. Port Macquarie Coastal Walk

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 5 minutes

This Port Macquarie Coastal Walk , set within Sea Acres National Park, is as iconic as the town itself with its breathtaking coastal scenery and spectacular views. You’ll be in good company, with friendly locals, cyclists, skaters, walkers and runners all flocking to the coastal walk daily.

Commit to the entirety, which typically takes about three to four hours to complete (pushing this walk’s grading up from easy to moderate) or tackle one of its four sections: Westport to Town Beach (2 kilometres), Town Beach to Flynns Beach (2.2 kilometres), Flynns Beach to Shelly Beach (2.2 kilometres) and Shelly Beach to Tacking Point (2.7 kilometres).

Many opt to join the track just outside The Westport Club, and weave nine kilometres to the south along the Hastings River and the iconic Breakwall, hugging the coastline all the way to Tacking Point Lighthouse. There are plenty of spots to stop along the way, providing food, coffee and entertainment to match the views.

Distance: 9 kilometres one-way, but you can split the walk up into sections (outlined above).

Getting there: Kick your expedition off at Westport Park on Park St in Port Macquarie’s town centre.

Accessibility: None, as there are regular steps, steep sections and some obstacles

Facilities: Picnic areas, accommodation and shops can be found along the way so check out a map of the entire stretch to know what’s where.

6. Diamond Head Loop Walk

Diamond Head Loop Trail — The route of this loop trail provides breathtaking views. (Image: Destination NSW)

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 50 minutes

Introduce yourself to the exceptional beauty of Crowdy Bay National Park by way of the Diamond Head Loop Walk . The trail links through the forest on a moderately difficult hike packed with highlights. Marvel at the swathes of forest and foliage as well as the quartz crystals in the cliffs, which often sparkle in the sunlight on a bright day.

Kylie’s Lookout is a great place to stop and enjoy the view. It’s famed for delivering some of the best dolphin and whale sightings from land. Meanwhile, the headland provides panoramic views out to Crowdy Bay, north towards Perpendicular Point and south towards Crowdy Head.

Distance: 4.3-kilometre loop

Getting there: You’ll find its entry via Diamond Head Rd — go through the Diamond Head campground in Crowdy Bay National Park.

Accessibility: None

Facilities: None but there are toilets and picnic tables at the Diamond Head campground where the walk begins.

Hard hikes in Port Macquarie

The toughest hikes in Port Macquarie are moderate to arduous paths, which may feature treacherous areas and steep climbs. They are only appropriate for experienced bushwalkers and hikers and not suitable for people without a sufficient level of fitness.

7. Laurieton Track

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 40 minutes

The Laurieton Track in Dooragan National Park is reserved for the most intrepid of nature lovers. This rousing walk in Port Macquarie takes you atop the picturesque summit, where views rank among the best in the state.

Part of the Three Brothers Track, this easily accessible route will weave you through eucalyptus and blackbutt trees amid an abundance of wildlife. While we recommend this walk for anyone with an affinity for the great outdoors, there are long, winding and steep sections that may be too challenging for beginners.

Distance: 3 kilometres one-way

Getting there: Walk through the council park on Laurie St to find the trail behind some houses. There is very limited signage throughout the entire trail, FYI.

Accessibility: None

Facilities: None

8. Rawson Falls Walk

Time from Port Macquarie centre: 1hr 

Many make the mistake of visiting the Boorganna Nature Reserve without doing the Rawson Falls Walk – don’t be that person. Instead, make the 2.5km journey down to the very bottom of the waterfall, stopping to take a dip in the deep, tranquil plunge pool at its base.

For those who don’t feel like a swim, there is a viewing platform that shortens the distance to about 3.4 kilometres return. Take in the sights and sounds of varied flora and fauna, encompassed by the 40-metre-tall trees around you. Spring brings flowering orange blossoms and cinnamon orchards, which can be marvelled at while you eat a packed lunch by the picnic area.

Distance: 5 kilometres return

Getting there: Hit Main St, north of Comboyne, and stay on it as it turns into Wingham Rd. Chuck a right onto Innes View Rd to follow signs to the Boorganna picnic area where this trail begins.

Accessibility: None

Facilities: There’s a picnic area at the waterfall, and educational signposts dot the trail.

Originally written by Eliza Sholly with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

8 breathtaking walks and hikes in Port Macquarie

Discover the region’s boundless beauty at your own pace with the most captivating walks and hikes in Port Macquarie.

Easy hikes in Port Macquarie

1. Kooloonbung Creek Walks — Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park

2. Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk

3. Grants Beach Coastal Walk

4. Old Bottlebutt Walking Track

Moderate hikes in Port Macquarie

5. Port Macquarie Coastal Walk

6. Diamond Head Loop Walk

Hard hikes in Port Macquarie

7. Laurieton Track

8. Rawson Falls Walk

The best cafes and coffee in Port Macquarie

16 of the best places to stay in Port Macquarie

14 top Port Macquarie restaurants to try in 2025

16 of the best Port Macquarie cafes for coffee lovers

Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Central Coast oyster experiences

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

Organic dining

Paddock-to-plate dining