Melanie’s guidebook

There’s plenty to do in Port Macquarie or “Port” if you’re a local 😉 The world-famous Koala Hospital is just up the road and free entry - just book on their website. Stop for a delicious coffee at Round and Round afterwards. And Port Jet Boats gets you up close and personal during whale watching season - or just from any local beach! You can view the resident koalas or take a guided tour. You have to visit one (or all) of our local beaches. Nobby's, Oxley and Lighthouse Beach South are dog friendly. Otherwise Town, Flynn's and Lighthouse are patrolled beaches. You can even take a camel ride on Lighthouse Beach! Visit most of these beaches by taking The Coastal Walk which takes you from Town Green to the Tacking Point Lighthouse. Koolongbung Nature Park is a pleasant walk in the town. Walking the Breakwall at sunset for gorgeous views is a must-do, check out the painted rocks and maybe see the local dolphins and turtle. There’s a great 10-pin bowling centre; go-kart track -even an escape room! Not forgetting the huge range of cafes and restaurants. You can breakfast by the sea, have lunch by the river and watch the sunset over the river at dinner. Visit the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre for a boardwalk though an ancient rainforest. Make sure to pack a picnic or bbq (and your bathers) for a swim at Shelly Beach afterwards and you might even see some of the drift wars art by local artist. Gaze into the galaxies or check out the moon at the Observatory at Town Beach. Further afield, you can pick your own delicious strawberries at Riccardoes followed by for scones, cream and jam. Port Macquarie boasts a range of local wineries, including Cassegrain; Little Fish; Bago Maze and Winery; Long Point Vineyard. In town you can visit local micro breweries that often will have musicians or some delicious meals - Black Duck Brewery, Moorebeer and Wicked Elf.