Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing day by the water at Perch Hole picnic area.
People come from miles around to take in this beautiful setting, where you can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing and swimming in this large estuarine lake in the middle of the reserve. Birdwatching is another highlight here, as the lake supports a variety of birdlife including osprey, black swans and wood ducks, as well as many other aquatic animals.
Perhaps the best way to enjoy the lake though is to explore it by kayaking, canoeing, or setting sail in a small motored dingy.
Whether you're an eager history student or an outdoor adventurer, you'll find plenty to do at Lake Innes Nature Reserve, not far from Port Macquarie. The reserve features a fascinating historic site set in gorgeous natural scenery with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, birdwatching and water sport activities.
Lake Innes lies at its heart and is a picturesque setting for the historically significant Innes Ruins, which is a great place to learn all about early settlement and convict history in NSW. Book in advance to join a guided tour of the ruins.
The lake is also a gorgeous backdrop for picnicking, birdwatching, walking or cycling. Or, get out on the water by kayaking or canoeing across it or enjoying a splash of swimming in its tranquil waters or spot of fishing from Perch Hole. There's an impressive array of wildlife to admire here too, including osprey, ducks and swans paddling on the lake and the kangaroos, wallabies and dingoes that can be seen throughout the reserve.
Innes Ruins has a charming setting looking over Lake Innes and is an important remnant of early settlement days on the north coast of NSW. Built by Major Archibald Clunes Innes, it contains rich history about the settlement of NSW, convict labour and the culture of the 1800s.
The Depression of the 1840s brought financial ruin to Innes, and the closure of Port Macquarie as a penal settlement deprived him of convict labour. Following his departure, the house was occupied by a number of people over time, but was derelict by the beginning of the 1900s. It subsequently deteriorated to its present state as a result of natural decay and vandalism.
Today, the ruins are classified by the National Trust of Australia (NSW). Access to the site is by guided tour only.
Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park is located in Queens Lake State Forest Bonny Hills.
The park boasts approximately 70 kilometres of single track mountain bike trails for both gravity and cross country mountain bike riding.
All trails in the park are sign posted and are rated according to the level of difficulty. The ratings range from beginner to intermediate and advanced.
Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park is easily accessible by car and is only a short 20 minutes drive south of Port Macquarie.
A little off the beaten track, discover the tranquil charms of Queens Lake Nature Reserve, just south of Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast. With a variety of lush vegetation, including stands of magnificent old growth gums and dense rainforest, you'll see why it's not only a haven for wildlife but nature-lovers too.
The pristine lake is an ideal destination for a day of picnicking, swimming, fishing and boating. It's also a popular spot for windsurfing, and families will love the tranquil waters where the kids can play. There's even a small wharf where you can launch a kayak or boat for an afternoon of peaceful paddling.
The surrounding forests are home to over 200 species of animals, making this reserve perfect for wildlife and birdwatching. While looking to the tree-tops, you might even spot a koala dozing in the branches.
There are few nicer ways to enjoy the sights that picturesque Port Macquarie has to offer than a hike or stroll along Googik Heritage walking track. Set in a pristine natural environment, the two kilometre walk starts at Lake Innes Nature Reserve on Lake Road and extends south all the way to St Columba Anglican School.
While making your way along this track, you’ll be keeping active as well as discovering some of the Port Macquarie area’s best-kept natural secrets.The track winds along gently undulating hills and, as well as the beautiful natural surroundings, allows you to see the local birdlife that call Lakes Innes Nature Reserve home, making it a lovely scenic journey for those who enjoy walking, cycling and birdwatching alike.
A boutique public exhibition space located in Port Macquarie, NSW showcasing a range of original artworks by internationally recognised realism artist Nicola McLeay. It has a focus on sharing with the public one-off pieces that are for sale of the region and wider parts of Australia and New Zealand.
Attractive leasing options and personalised commissions are available in a range of sizes, media and mediums. Visitors are welcome to linger and absorb the beauty of Nicola McLeay’s fine art while watching a digital display of the artists process via time-lapse. The works on show change frequently as new pieces are completed, fresh off the easel.
Lighthouse Gallery is situated at Lighthouse Beach, one kilometre south of the Tacking Point Surf Club opposite the famous Camel Safari, along one of Australia's most majestic coastlines.
Visiting the gallery can easily be arranged by appointment or when it is open for public viewing.
Guulabaa means 'Place of Koala' in the local Gathang language. This visitor experience nestled within Cowarra State Forest on Biripi Country delivers that promise.
Visitors are welcomed by The Big Koala, a 2.5-metre mural koala, part of the award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. Visitors follow the path to The Hub, a series of decks gently taking visitors into the forest canopy. The Hub views are incredible! Free for visitors.
Seeking adventure? Have a WildNets experience! Gain a new sense of gravity bouncing from bouncy netted room to room (no safety gear required!) or tackle the more energetic tree-to-tree challenges. Pre-bookings via WildNets are recommended. Open daily.
The world's first Wild Koala Breeding Facility - run by Koala Conservation Australia in partnership with Taronga Conservation Society and the Australian Museum - operates out of Guulabaa. Come visit koalas in the wild and learn more about the great work happening in koala conservation. Open daily.
Bunyah Cafe, operated by Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council, offers coffee and tea, slushies, cold drinks, muffins, cakes and sandwiches. Open Thursday through Sundays, and daily in school holiday periods.
Guulabaa Cathedral is a 150 church-pew-style seated area. Free for visitors. Bookings are available for weddings and large events.
Bunyah Bilbay Cultural Centre is opening soon!
See you at Guulabaa!
WildNets Adventure Park is Australia's biggest suspended playground.
Discover a vast network of interconnected spaces. Experience a whole new sense of gravity as you bounce from room to room, discovering a variety of fun games.
The suspended nets include giant bouncy netted rooms, tree houses, suspension bridges, ball pits, slides, pods, giant inflatables and many other exciting features for all ages and abilities.
Or take on the thrilling Treetop Ropes Courses. Kids aged 3-7 can explore the Kids Treetop Rope Course, while those 8 and up can conquer the Big Treetop Ropes Course. With over 100 challenges combined—ziplines, rock climbing, and suspended bridges included—there's no shortage of smiles and excitement!
Have fun whilst supporting the environment, knowing 50 per cent of all profits go to the new Wild Koala Breeding Program.
Lighthouse Beach is seven kilometres south of Port Macquarie and is a nine-kilometre stretch of south-east facing sand heading to Lake Cathie. It is a favourite surf beach offering protection from the summer north easterlies. The beach picks up all available swell so it's great for the intermediate surfer and above, with short powerful rides.
A perfect beach for ideal long walks, taking a camel safari ride, beach fishing and 4WD access at the southern end. The beach is patrolled during the School Holidays (northern end, near the surf club and cafe).
Visit the historic Tacking Point Lighthouse with was built in 1879 which is the final stop along the scenic coastal walk, enjoy the viewing platform for a stunning view along the coastline, it is also a great vantage point for whale watching from May to November.
South of Watonga Rocks on this long stretch of beach, is the perfect place for taking your four-legged friend for some energetic dog beach play. You can let your friend off the lead from this point, please be sure to check signage on the beach for details on leashed and unleashed areas.
Be warned; once discovered, you might not want to leave the natural beauty of Queens Lake picnic area, just a short drive south of Port Macquarie. Nestled amongst towering eucalypts and lush rainforest, this idyllic lakeside spot is a refreshing oasis in the summer months. Situated in Queens Lake Nature Reserve on the Mid North Coast, it’s a great day out for families and nature-lovers who enjoy a secluded getaway without the crowds.
While away a relaxing day filled with swimming, fishing and boating. Or just sit back in the shade while the little ones enjoy paddling in the calm waters. After a relaxing lunch at the picnic tables, launch the boat or canoe from the small wharf and explore the lake.
The surrounding forests make it perfect for wildlife and birdwatching. You might see glossy black cockatoos, swift parrots and, if you’re lucky, perhaps a koala.
The Big Koala (2.5 metres high) is 88th sculpture on the award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, on NSW Mid North Coast.
Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail encompasses 91+ one-metre-high fibreglass koala sculptures, hand painted by local artists with designs that promote koala and Australian wildlife conservation and the environment, arts and cultural heritage.
Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail won Gold for 'Tourist Attractions' in 2022 NSW Tourism Awards and was Finalist in 2022 Australian Tourism Awards.
Hello Koalas won "Best Sculpture Trail in Australia" (Gold in 2022, Silver in 2021) and The Big Koala won " Best Landmark Sculpture in Australia" (Silver in 2022 and Gold 2023) in the Australian Street Art Awards.
The Big Koala is an iconic public artwork to photograph and share with family and friends and free for everyone to enjoy.
The sculpture was created by local artists Pauline Roods and John Belfield for the visitor experience 'Guulabaa, Place of Koala' in the Cowarra State Forest, five minutes from the Pacific Highway, corner Oxley Highway and Burrawan Forest Drive.
'The Big Koala, Spirit of All Koalas' depicts 31 koalas, 30cm-55cm, living happily in their forest home.
Welcome to X-Golf Port Macquarie, your local indoor golf and sports bar in New South Wales!
Join them for casual rounds, tournaments, coaching sessions, or private hire. They've paired a relaxed atmosphere with a full bar and a curated menu, making it the perfect spot to catch the game or relax with friends.
Their premium simulators provide accurate ball data and access to world-renowned international courses. From casual group bundles to tailored event packages, we offer flexible options for different occasions.
Grants (North Haven) Beach is located on the northern side of the Camden Haven River mouth. The southern end is protected by the break wall which offers great 'right handers' with a southerly swell. The beach is home to the Camden Haven Surf Lifesaving Club, which patrols the beach throughout the summer weekends. Dogs are allowed north of the patrolled area.
The beach runs north-south for about 3.5 kilometres and is paralleled by a lovely walking track through the littoral forest and heathland. The beach is patrolled by council lifeguards and the Camden Haven Surf Club during school holidays. There are showers, toilets, and picnic tables at the southern end.
Experience the wonder of wildlife at Billabong Zoo where unforgettable encounters await!
At the multiple award-winning Billabong Zoo in Port Macquarie, NSW you can get up-close and personal and meet iconic Australian animals like kangaroos and koalas, marvel at exotic creatures like snow leopards, red pandas and meerkats, and get up close to legendary saltwater crocodile, Shrek. You can pat, feed, hold, hear and see over 100 species of mammals, reptiles and birds in this friendly ten-acre Koala and Wildlife Park.
Enjoy interactive experiences, and engaging presentations every day from friendly and knowledgeable zookeepers. Get involved with hands-on programs like 'Junior Zoo Keeper for a Day' and 'Bubs & Cubs' programmes. Get up close and personal by booking a personal animal encounter and pat a koala, feed a cheetah or mingle with meerkats. Families love the vibrant playground, picnic spots, and cozy café overlooking the cheeky spider monkeys.
With its inclusive facilities and dedication to conservation, Billabong Zoo is perfect for all ages.
The Grants Beach Coastal Walk starts at North Haven near the mouth of the Camden Haven River and ends at the cliffs of Grants Headland at Bonny Hills. It is well signposted and passes through heathland, rich in wildflowers during late winter and early spring. There are areas of melaleuca swamp, littoral and eucalypt forest. Birdlife is rich along the track with species ranging from honeyeaters and thornbills to glossy black cockatoos and white-bellied sea eagles.
Jumbos Playland is a favourite Port Macquarie family tourist attraction and one of the largest indoor soft play centres on the Mid-North Coast.
The main attraction for the kids is their huge, six metre high maze, with all the slides and swings and gizmos, together with the six and half metre bouncy slide.
Also offering Little Kids Fun in Port Macquarie, where they keep the under four's separate and give them a big ball pit to play in, motion play, mini bouncy castle and mini slides. They also have a tiny town with a variety of shops, activities.
Around 30 minutes south of Port Macquarie is this calm beach at the mouth of the beautiful Camden Haven River. Pilot Beach is situated between the two break walls, keeping it protected from large seas most of the time. It is the ideal beach for families with young children.
It can be accessed off Camden Head Road, Camden Head. Try the Flowerbowl Circuit Walk at Kattang Nature Reserve while in the area. This beach is not patrolled by life guards.
The majestic Perpendicular Point with its spectacular vertical cliffs plummeting 40 metres to the sea below, is the main feature of Kattang Nature Reserve. This reserve is surrounded by rock platforms, with the Camden Haven estuary to the north. Perpendicular Point is the best spot in the Camden Haven district to watch whales as they migrate to and from the warmer northern waters. Humpback whales can be seen regularly from May to October while the rarer Southern Right whale can sometimes be seen.
A variety of habitats include rugged and exposed headlands, patches of littoral rainforest, dry eucalypt forest, and wet and dry heaths. The reserve was declared in 1983 following the efforts of the local Save the Headland Action Group. The two main walks in the reserve feature great views and wildflowers in season.
It’s not hard to see why this beautiful spot is a favourite among locals and nature-lovers alike. Wander through the shady grove on this short walk and you’ll emerge at majestic Perpendicular Point.
From the lookout, you’ll see north to Port Macquarie, south to Diamond Head, and southwest to the dramatic North Brother Mountain in Dooragan National Park. Sitting on the top of the sheer cliffs is a fantastic place to gaze out at the sparkling blue waters and a great vantage point for whale watching and spotting dolphins. To see the view south head to the nearby Charles Hamey lookout.
You’re sure to see plenty of birdlife as honeyeaters come in to feed off the banksias and glossy black cockatoos nibble at the black she-oaks. If you're a native flower lover, this easy walk is a must in early spring. You’ll see boronia, flannel flower, everlasting daisy and wedding bush dotted amongst the bushes.
Built in 1879 by New South Wales architect James Barnet, Tacking Point Lighthouse is the thirteenth oldest lighthouse in Australia. The lighthouse is located in the picturesque coastal town of Port Macquarie, New South Wales, and sits atop a rocky headland that offers stunning panoramic views.
The area is a popular location for whale-watching during migration. Nearby features include a stunning coastal walk, and a 9.1-kilometre trek.
The Lighthouse Beach has a gorgeous seven-kilometre stretch of sand and is also a popular destination for surfers as the headland offers protection from summer north-easterly winds. Visitors can also enjoy a camel safari ride, go beach fishing and take to the sand in a 4WD. The nearby Surf Life Saving Club features a cafe and kiosk.
Recent upgrades include an accessible walkway that enables people of all abilities to enjoy not just the historic lighthouse, but to also enjoy the breathtaking vistas at the northern end of Lighthouse beach. The new walkway is fibre reinforced composite, with accessible handrails and safety fencing, and additional disabled parking has been added.
Nestled in Port Macquarie, NSW, Lunico Candle Co. is a premier destination for enthusiasts of artisanal craftsmanship and behind-the-scenes experiences. Specialising in hand-poured soy candles, reed diffusers, wax melts, and room sprays, each product is meticulously crafted to evoke cherished memories.
Visitors are invited to explore a diverse range of collections and take a little piece of Port Macquarie home. Beyond home fragrances, the store offers premium loose-leaf teas created in collaboration with a local tea business, encouraging moments of relaxation and mindfulness.
For those eager to delve deeper, Lunico Candle Co. provides engaging candle-making workshops suitable for all skill levels. Participants learn the nuances of scent blending, wicking and pouring, culminating in a personalised candle to take home at the end of the workshop, complete with a custom label. These 2.5-hour sessions foster creativity and community, making them ideal for individuals and groups alike.
Whether you're seeking a unique souvenir, a hands-on creative endeavour or a thoughtful gift, Lunico Candle Co. promises a fun and aromatic experience.
Welcome to Port Macquarie's first and only Family Skate Centre! The skate centre launched in August 2023 with the goal of creating an all-inclusive, indoor environment that the whole family can enjoy.
As a family business Planet Skate understand families and can help you with guidance if you require. The rink features a supportive railing and forgiving rink surface.
Previously a rink, exciting additions have been made to the centre by introducing skateboards, ramps and a street section. To cater to families with diverse tastes in wheels, plenty of seating, lockers, and air hockey for those who aren't quite ready to take on the challenge of wheels.
The skate centre offers a range of features, including a roller-skating rink with discos on Friday nights, skate hire (rollerblades, roller-skate and skateboard) with safety padding, an indoor ramp section for use with skateboards, roller-skates, and rollerblades, air hockey, café, coffee, diner, rollerskating/ rollerblading lessons, skateboarding lessons, skate fitness classes, learn-to-skate plus games, sports classes, mums (or dads) and toddlers sessions, birthday parties, events, and functions room hire, as well as a skate retail store. Planet Skate also hosts themed events and workshops!
Planet Skate is open for roller-skating sessions all week except Mondays and some public holidays. For all the latest information on the activities, times, and pricing, visit their website.
The award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail (established 2014) encompasses 92+ one-metre fibreglass koala sculptures, featuring hand-painted designs by local artists, on view all year across the region.
Say 'Hello' to the iconic 2.5 metre "Big Koala", created by Pauline Roods and John Belfield, at the tourism attraction 'Guulabaa, Place of Koala' in Cowarra State Forest, corner Burrawan Forest Drive and Oxley Highway.
Hello Koalas sculptures are displayed across Port Macquarie-Hastings region in a Trail that leads people on a discovery adventure from the mountains to the sea.
Hello Koalas sculptures can be found lazing in parks, sitting under a tree, outside a museum or relaxing by a cafe.
Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is a permanent attraction that appeals to people of all ages. Often three generations explore the Trail together, taking photos and chatting about each Hello Koalas sculpture design, which celebrates the local heritage and vibrant arts scene, and educates about koala care and conservation.
Shop for unique gifts at Hello Koalas Gallery and Gift Shop including calendars, colouring books, notebooks, jigsaw puzzles, magnets, badges, stickers, T-shirts, T towels, games and toys and say hello to 20+ Hello Koalas sculptures in one spot.
