20 of the Best Things to do in Port Macquarie

The Port Macquarie region is a captivating destination that's perfect for families looking for outdoorsy fun. Port Macquarie features a plethora of pristine beaches hugged by lush pockets of rainforest, while also being a vital habitat for our furry and feathered friends.

Right in the heart of it all, you'll find Port Macquarie, the largest town in the region, brimming with an array of restaurants, beautiful beaches, exciting attractions, and a wide range of accommodation options. It's a perfect hub for your unforgettable getaway—so we've compiled a list of the best things to do in Port Macquarie. You're welcome! 

20 of the Best Things to Do in Port Macquarie

1. Visit the Animals at Billabong Zoo

 

The renowned Billabong Zoo in Port Macquarie offers the exciting opportunity to get hands-on with a variety of Australian and exotic animals.

Here, you can pet, feed, cradle, listen to, and observe over 80 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. The dedicated team looks after more than 200 animals in this expansive 10-acre Koala and Wildlife Park, and it really is a must-do for families visiting the region! 

Location: 61 Billabong Drive

RELATED:
The Best Things to do in Port Stephens

2. Ride a Camel at Lighthouse Beach

Promising memories that will last a lifetime, why not take a Camel Ride on the stunning Lighthouse Beach? Catering to everyone aged three and above, camel riding is an experience that will delight the whole family! 

Location: Lighthouse Beach, Matthew Flinders Drive

3. Visit Wildnets Adventure Park

Imagine 39 kilometres of ropes and cables artfully woven through the gum tree canopy of Cowarra State Forest. Pretty cool, right? It's no wonder Wildnets Adventure Park is one of the best things to do in Port Macquarie! 

It offers a captivating world with vibrant ball pits, exciting slides, interactive toys, and massive inflatable balls that create a colourful spectacle, casting rainbow shadows on the forest floor.

Both children and those young at heart can bounce, run, or stroll through the extensive play areas and suspension bridges. You'll also find inviting hammocks, or you can venture into the treehouses for a bird's-eye perspective of the beautiful koala habitat on the mid-north coast. It's a place where the fun never ends!

Location: Guulabaa, Cowarra State Forest, corner of Oxley Highway and Burrawan Drive, Lake Innes

4. Explore Sea Acres National Park

Sea Acres National Park offers a stunning fusion of beach and lush rainforest - one of the best things to do in Port Macquarie for nature lovers.

Sea Acres National Park safeguards one of the most extensive stretches of coastal rainforest on the eastern coast of Australia, making it unique as the rainforest seamlessly extends right to the beach. It's a nature-lover's dream come true, and the perfect place to learn more about the Aboriginal history of the area.

Location: Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, 159 Pacific Drive

5. Traverse the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail

The Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is a truly remarkable and multi-award-winning art initiative that honours one of Australia's most beloved creatures – the Koala.

This vibrant community art project has blossomed to include a total of 83 Hello Koalas sculptures. The imaginative journey meanders through Port Macquarie itself and extends into neighbouring towns, villages, parklands, beaches, community spots, and local businesses. It's a must-see on your list of the best things to do in Port Macquarie! 

Location: 16/10 Bellbowrie Street, Port Macquarie

6. Go for a Splash at Stoney Park

There is so much fun waiting to be had at Stoney Park—with the Aqua Park and Aqua Golf in full swing and waiting to be explored! 

Location: 16 Hacks Ferry Road, Telegraph Point

7. Hit a Hole-in-One at Hyrdo Golf

Hydro Golf and Putt Putt is a true gem and a must-visit in Port Macquarie.

This fun-filled experience is a hit with everyone, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned golfer. It's a fantastic way to have some fun, regardless of your age or skill level.

Location: 10 Boundary Street

8. Discover the Real 'Magic Faraway Tree'

Step into the enchanting world of the 'Magic Faraway Tree' come to life!

Take a  20-minute stroll through the forest with the kids, and you'll discover the magnificent 'Old Bottlebutt.' This majestic tree, a Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), stands tall in Burrawan State Forest. It's not just any tree – it's the largest known of its kind, and Old Bottlebutt boasts a distinct shape with its massive, flared 'butt,' measuring over 16 metres in girth just above its base. At a ripe age of over 200 years old, Old Bottlebutt is a towering and truly extraordinary attraction that you won't want to miss!

Location: Internal Break Road, off Bago Road, Wauchope

9. See One of the Oldest Lighthouses in Australia

One of the best things to do in Port Macquarie whether you're a lighthouse fan or not, Tacking Point Lighthouse is one of the most beloved attractions in town.

Constructed in 1879 under the skilled hands of New South Wales architect James Barnet, Tacking Point Lighthouse proudly claims the title of the thirteenth oldest lighthouse in all of Australia. The lighthouse is majestically perched on a rocky headland, gifting you with breathtaking, sweeping views of the stunning mid-north coast of Australia.

Location: Lighthouse Road

10. Go Four-wheel Driving on Diamond Head Beach

 

The absolutely beautiful Diamond Head Beach is 4WD accessible from the campsite in the south and Dunbogan in the north.

A NSW National Parks Pass is required to drive on the beach, but it's an experience you won't want to miss if you've got the wheels for it! 

Location: Diamond Head Access Road, Diamond Head

11. Brush up on Local History at Port Macquarie Museum

The beloved Port Macquarie Museum is a go-to destination that tells the stories of those who have come before, and what makes the town so special—from its beginnings as a British penal settlement through to the popular tourist and sea-change destination the town is today. 

Location: 22 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie

12. Hit the Beach

We'd recommend Lighthouse Beach, Nobby's Beach, Flynns Beach, Town Beach, and Rainbow Beach for some memorable swims and beach days in Port Macquarie! 

Location: Throughout Port Macquarie

13. Explore the Award-winning Bago Maze

Looking for things to do in Port Macquarie that are a little out of the ordinary? Why not visit a huge maze?!

Bago is a family farm that's all about creating connections, igniting outdoor adventures, and celebrating the flavours of the mid-north coast. Get lost in their award-winning hedge maze, sample their coastal wines, and relish local produce platters - the perfect day out!

Location: 197 Lambs Road, Herons Creek

14. Stop off at the Famous Koala Hospital

One of the most popular things to do in Port Macquarie is to visit the Koala Hospital.

Here you'll find exhibit enclosures, a dedicated treatment clinic, intensive care units, and rehabilitation yards. There's also a Koalaseum; a unique museum dedicated to Koalas. Inside, you'll discover fascinating insights into koala evolution and biology, along with engaging interactive displays. 

Location: Corner Roto Place & Lord Street

15. Ride a Heritage Steam Train at Timbertown

The perfect day out for families, there is so much to see and do at Timbertown. 

Step back in time and ride the steam train on a trip out through the forest and return, experience the carriage ride around the village, visit the cafe and playground, and immerse yourself in a whole heap of old-school charm.

Timbertown is a whole village brought back to life. Here, you'll step into the past and experience the incredible journey of Australia's pioneering timber industry. 

Location: Timbertown, Oxley Hwy, Wauchope

16. Stay the Night

Well-equipped for holidaymakers, Port Macquarie is the perfect destination to stay a night or more!

NRMA's Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park, BIG4 Bonny Hills Holiday Park, and Flynn's Beach Caravan Park are all well worth exploring; providing great quality, family-friendly, and budget-conscious accommodation in Port Macquarie.

Location: Throughout Port Macquarie

17. Go for a Ride at Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park

Discover the thrill of the Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park, a sprawling web of exciting mountain bike trails just a quick 20-minute drive south of Port Macquarie. Get ready for an exhilarating ride that's perfect for adventurous families! 

Location: Spring Creek Rd, Jolly Nose

18. Spend the Day on the Farm

Whether you want to meet some exceptionally cute farm animals or learn more about sustainable, paddock-to-plate farming practices, there are plenty of Farm Tours on offer in Port Macquarie that will engage and inspire.

Location: Throughout Port Macquarie.

19. Chase Some Waterfalls

Truly immerse yourself in nature at some beautiful, tranquil waterfalls in and around Port Macquarie. Our top picks would be Rawson Falls, Waitui Falls, and Ellenborough Falls if you fancy a bit of a day trip! 

Location: Multiple throughout Port Macquarie and surrounding areas.

20. Go Cafe Hopping

A list of the best things to do in Port Macquarie just wouldn't be complete without mentioning how many awesome cafes there are in town! The town's thriving coffee scene and cafe culture make for a delicious journey to add to your list. 

We love Social Grounds, Salty Crew Kiosk and The Beach House for some of the best coffee and grub in the area! 

Location: Throughout Port Macquarie

Hero image: Visit NSW

More Family Adventures in NSW

North Coast Beaches That Are Prettier Than Sydney Beaches
Seal Rocks NSW: 10 Reasons to Explore This Cute Coastal Town
The Best Things to do in Newcastle With Kids

Have you signed up to our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!