There are plenty of places worth shouting about along the mid-North New South Wales Coast. Port Macquarie is one such destination – a district conveniently found just 4 hours north of the capital, nudging the mouth of the Hastings River, and generous in its number of beaches. With ample waterways at its disposal, Port Macquarie is already a favourite among surfers, fisherman and the outdoors inclined. As for how else to spend your time around here, let this guide to Port Macquarie lead the way.
Part bar, part cafe, The Beach House is one of the best places to eat in Port Macquarie. While open for lunch and dinner, it’s best enjoyed at sunset with a cocktail or two in hand. Bites here are casual, and paired with views of the neighbouring Hastings River. thebeachhouse.net.au
Another of the iconic Port Macquarie restaurants is Whalebone. Perched on the banks of the Hastings River, this eatery has been in action for a good 40 years, and is currently led by Executive Chef Peter Ridland (formerly of the equally admired Jonah’s on Whale Beach). Tuck into its seafood-focused fine dining while you enjoy unrivalled views of the river out front. whalebonewharf.com.au
Sitting within metres of the sand on Flynn’s Beach is Sandbox. With all-day dining available, the cafe heaves from morning through afternoon with hungry locals dropping by pre- and post-swim. Or to grab one of the best coffees in Port Macquarie – beans are sourced from local business Doppio of Nothing. instagram.com/sandbox
When it comes to breaking your fast, the local go to in Port Macquarie is Social Grounds. You’ll find popular breakfast favourites on the menu, from freshly baked muffins to the always classic avo on toast. Plus there’s decent coffee too, which you can get your hands on seven days a week. instagram.com/socialgrounds
Casual but reliable, cafe Milkbar is located opposite Town Beach, another of Port Macquarie’s sandy stretches. Pay a visit seven days a week for a quality coffee, or grab an old school milkshake and take it with you across the road to where the waves are calling. milkbar-townbeach.square.site
Step inside this hidden laneway gem best known for its craft cocktails and yakitori skewers grilled over coals. It’s intimate, buzzy and offers a modern fusion tapas experience. stick.bar
Little Shack is a laid-back waterfront café and bar by the Town Green, serving locally sourced bites, specialty coffee, and cocktails in a breezy, beachy setting. littleshack.com.au
A stylish, modern seafood restaurant offering fresh, sustainable sea-to-plate dishes and vibrant cocktails in a relaxed coastal atmosphere. billsfishhouse.com.au
Port Macquarie is just as craft beer-focused as the rest of Australia, and can lay claim to its own brewery. Drop by Black Duck to try eight of its homegrown creations on tap, or dabble with the tasting paddle and enjoy a tour of what goes on behind-the-scenes while you’re there. It’s not just beer that’s offered here either, but a rotating line-up of live music and casual bites to eat. blackduckbrewery.com.au
But cheap and cheerful accommodation abounds too. Try the NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park, a cluster of campsites and cabins neighbouring one of the most popular beaches in the region. If you have kids in tow, this place is for you – think resort-style pool with a wading section for little ones. nrmaparksandresorts.com.au/port-macquarie
When it comes to Port Macquarie accommodation, Rydges dominates the market. Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges is one of the most popular places to stay in town thanks to its pool, and collection of 92 rooms and suites settled on the waterfront in the ‘Settlement City’ precinct. rydges.com/accommodation
Beachfront views will tempt you to this Port Macquarie accommodation option. There’s 180-degree views that adjoin this 43-room strong establishment, each well dressed with appropriately coastal decor and ranging from Family Suites to Ocean View Spa Suites. ibisstylespm.com.au
Taste your way through local produce at the Port Central Food Markets. Hosted every Tuesday in the Glasshouse Forecourt, stalls here sell everything from pasture-raised meat and eggs to jams, honey, pasta and dishes to nibble along the way.
There’s no shortage of beaches or swell in this region, with Port Macquarie popular among surfers of all levels of experience. If you’re competent, try the Breakwall at Town Beach, or Grants Beach in North Haven. There’s opportunities around here for beginners too – take a lesson with Soul Surfing and Port Macquarie Surf School.
One of Port Macquarie’s most historic landmarks is Tacking Point Lighthouse, built in 1879. Not only is this spot popular among heritage buffs, but the point is the perfect location to enjoy a spot of whale watching between May and November when the humpbacks are on the move. visitnsw.com
