10 Fun Things to Do in Port Macquarie

In Port Macquarie and looking for fun? This seaside town at the mouth of the Hastings River has a terrific selection of enjoyable activities from beach fun to markets and mazes. Check out these 10 fun things to do in Port Macquarie and get ready to have a blast.

Surfing and Bodyboarding

Source:  Port Macquarie Fishing School

Port Macquarie’s beaches are great for a swim, a stroll or a sunbake. But while you’re in town, why not use them to learn to surf too? Port Macquarie’s award-winning surf school has both group lessons and private lessons catering to all skill levels, from complete beginners through to aspiring competitors.  Learn how to ride a wave – with all equipment provided.

Lighthouse Beach Camel Rides

Source: Lighthouse Beach Camel Rides

A walk along Lighthouse Beach is nice. But if you want to feel like a rugged adventurer, hop on board the back of a camel with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris. Experienced guides will tell you all kinds of stories and facts about these magnificent creatures. Speaking of magnificent creatures, you might see a few dolphins in the water too.

Pancake Place

Source: Pancake Place

For a meal the kids are sure to love, drop into this local favourite on Hay Street. Pancake Place serves up delicious meals in a relaxed, cosy, colourful setting. While pancakes are on the menu (of course), you’ll also find hot breakfasts, gourmet crepes and sweet beverages.

The Breakwall

Source: Doug Beckers

This little wall of rocks runs along the Hastings River side of Port Macquarie from Town Beach to Town Green.  Why is it fun? Well, apart from the fact that you might see a spotted-tailed quoll (just like in the picture above), the Breakwall has a fascinating section of painted rocks decorated with declarations of love, tributes to those who’ve passed on and other artistic efforts. Unleash your artistic side and add your own!

Boomerang Bike Hire

Source: Boomerang Bikes

On your bike! Boomerang Bike Hire is a 24-hour automatic bike hire service in Port Macquarie that will have you cycling around seeing the sights at your own pace. Check them out at the front of Port Central Shopping Centre, next to Glasshouse Theatre.

Skydiving

Source: Coastal Skydivers

Your first skydive is an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. So why not do it during your stay in Port Macquarie? Jump out of a plane 14000 feet in the air and experience 35 seconds of exhilarating 200km free-fall. You’ll get a great view of the Port Macquarie coastline – to say the least!

Festival of the Sun

Source: Festival of the Sun

Festival of the Sun is an outdoor music festival that takes place every December in Port Macquarie. Since 2001, it’s been bringing some of the biggest names in Australian music to the town. Previous artists include Gotye, Kate Miller-Heidke and Ball Park Music. 

Bago Maze and Winery

Source: Bago Maze & Winery

The Bago Vineyard is a brilliant concept: the combination of the largest hedge maze in the southern hemisphere plus a variety of fine wines. You can try and buy at the cellar door, have a picnic on the grassy area overlooking the vineyard and tackle the challenges of the wonderful, winding hedge maze. The Bago Vineyard is in Wauchope, in the Mid North Coast region of NSW. It’s a six-hour drive from Port Macquarie, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time.

Wauchope Farmer’s Market

Source: Wauchope Farmer's Market

Also in Wauchope is the Farmer’s Market. Happening on the fourth Sunday of every month at Wauchope Showgrounds, it brings together the region’s makers, bakers and growers of fine food for a morning of checking out the local goods.

Lord Howe Island

Source: Lord Howe Island

Despite only being 11km long, this island certainly packs a punch in terms of natural beauty. Take a day walk up Mt. Gower to the island’s peak – it’s a thrilling trek with ropes to help you climb up to the summit and jaw-dropping views along the way. Lord Howe Island is also one of Australia’s best bird-watching destinations, with hundreds of thousands of seabirds.

Want more fun things to do in Port Macquarie?

  1. Spend the day at Billabong Zoo Koala and Wildlife Park.
  2. Ride the steam train at Timbertown Heritage Theme Park.
  3. Take the kids to Jumbos Playland, an indoor play centre on Merrigal Road.

Further Reading