Port Macquarie is a picturesque Australian coastal town located between Sydney and Brisbane in New South Wales. Known for its beaches, tropical rainforests and diverse wildlife, Port Macquarie is a gem of a seaside vacation spot as well as a wonderful destination for permanent relocation. Surfers, animal lovers and avid outdoor hikers will have the time of their lives in this scenic town! Port Macquarie’s close proximity to other Australian capitals makes it the ideal home for people who want a change of scenery without being too far removed from work and study opportunities.
Want to learn more about what life is like in this part of the country? Here are the best things to do in Port Macquarie!
Learn to surf
Port Macquarie is renowned for its amazing beaches for swimming, surfing, snorkelling and other water activities. If you are an experienced surfer, you’re in for a treat in Port Macquarie. Luckily for those who are yet to get acquainted with a surfboard, there is a great surf school in town that caters to participants of all ages and skill levels. Going for a surfing lesson or two is the perfect way to make the most out of Port Macquarie’s first-prize beaches and warm weather! Since group classes are available, this will also make for a one-of-a-kind adventure for a family or a group of friends. And, if you’re not up for the challenge just yet, rest assured that you will have just as much fun lounging in the sun on the beautiful Flynn’s Beach, Town Beach and Rainbow Beach.
Party at the Festival of the Sun
Port Macquarie has an exciting cultural and entertainment scene with a myriad of arts and music events taking place throughout the year. The Festival of the Sun is an annual highlight and a local tradition that has been lighting up the town every December for the past two decades. The festival invites some of the biggest and most popular Australian music artists to put up a show that offers something for everyone! Many visitors opt to stay on-site in cabins or on the camping and glamping sites to make sure they don’t miss out on a minute of fun. For music fans, this is an event not to miss.
Support local at the Wauchope Farmers Market
If you’re looking for a weekend activity in Port Macquarie, be sure to stop by the Wauchope Farmers Market, where the best of local arts, crafts and cuisine come together on the fourth Saturday of every month. The Wauchope Farmers Market is a local institution and a great place to treat your tastebuds to anything from artisan-roasted coffee and homemade sourdough to organically grown produce. For a relaxing Saturday morning outing, don’t forget to check out other weekend markets in Port Macquarie such as the Foreshore Markets on Westport Park.
Pick your own strawberries
Another wholesome family activity (or romantic date idea!) is to visit the Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries farm where visitors can walk around the greenhouses to pick their own tomatoes and strawberries. Since the greenhouses are protected from rain and wind, this is the perfect way to spend your day if the cold weather is keeping you away from the beach. The farm is free to enter and you will only be charged for what you pick. Free guided tours of the farm are available during the week. The on-site cafe is also a popular brunch spot thanks to its mouthwatering menu along with regular events and tastings hosted throughout the year.
Wine and dine at the Bago Maze and Winery
The Bago Vineyards & Maze is one of the Port Macquarie region’s most famous attractions. Located in Wauchope, this family-run farm has some of the best wine in the area along with a show stopping hedge maze with over 2,000 metres of scenic walkways. The native lilly pilly hedge is an architecturally designed green landmark that never fails to amaze visitors. While children explore the maze, parents can indulge in wine tastings with cheese and meat platter pairings set against the backdrop of the gorgeous vineyards!
Explore the rainforest
Port Macquarie is surrounded by stunning landscapes and nature reserves. Situated just outside of town, the Sea Acres National Park is one of Port Macquarie’s biggest treasures. The lush rainforest environment presents multiple walking trails where the wildlife can be admired in their natural habitats. The forested area with its well-preserved indigenous plant growth has a particularly rich birdlife, including Australia’s largest species of owl, which can be observed in a peaceful guided tour. The Sea Acres Rainforest Centre is a must-visit for nature lovers. From eco-displays and local art exhibitions to rainforest discovery tours and Aboriginal culture educational sessions, the centre has plenty to offer. Also not to be missed is the Rainforest Cafe, where you can stop for a bite to eat after a tranquil and mindful stroll through the forest.
Stroll along the Town Beach Breakwall
Port Macquarie’s iconic breakwall is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. Stretching along the waterside for nearly ten kilometres, the breakwall walk offers incredible views of the Hastings River. The walkway is characterised by colourful graffiti rocks that include hundreds of written messages and drawings from people who have visited the area over the years. When strolling along the breakwall at sunrise or sunset, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the water. At the end of the walkway at Town Green, you’ll be met with a cafe and skatepark along with picnic tables and barbecues — this is the perfect place to camp out on a warm summer’s day!
Ready to explore more of Port Macquarie?
Reach out to Claymore Thistle today to book your free consultation for relocation to Australia!
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