Port Macquarie is a relaxed stop on the east coast between Sydney and Byron Bay: a koala hospital, a coastal walk over several beaches, and rocks painted by travellers from all over the world. Here you'll find all the checked spots from our map with tips.
Port Macquarie is on the Pacific Highway, about 390 kilometres north of Sydney. Long-distance buses stop in town, the nearest train station is Wauchope with a bus connection, and the small airport has flights to Sydney and Brisbane. In town everything is reachable on foot or by bus.
The climate is mild all year. Swimming is most pleasant from October to April; from June to November humpback whales pass along the coast — best seen from Tacking Point Lighthouse. Spring and autumn are good for hiking the coastal walk.
A small hostel with a pool and hammocks on a quiet street, five minutes' walk from the centre. Homely atmosphere, good for a few relaxed days on your way along the east coast.
A long, open beach south of the lighthouse with reliable waves. Only the northern end is patrolled — stay there, as there are strong currents further south. Also ideal for long beach walks.
The patrolled town beach is right next to the mouth of the Hastings River, five minutes' walk from the centre. Swimming is most pleasant from October to April. The coastal walk also starts here.
At the Koala Hospital, injured and sick koalas are cared for and, where possible, released back into the wild — one of the best-known projects of its kind worldwide. In the enclosures you see the animals up close. Since 2024 there's an entry fee; every day at 3 pm there's a tour with feeding. Best visited in the afternoon.
The small lighthouse stands on the headland above Lighthouse Beach and is the end point of the coastal walk. From June to November it's one of the best places to see passing humpback whales. Free access, with views south over the long beach.
On the breakwall at the river mouth, travellers from all over the world have painted thousands of rocks — with names, flags and memories. Bring paint and decorate your own rock; it's allowed here and a tradition. Most beautiful in the late afternoon.
About 9 kilometres of coastal walk lead from the town centre over several beaches and headlands to Tacking Point Lighthouse. You can walk it in sections, with buses running back parallel. Most beautiful in the morning; the beaches along the way invite a swim. Free.
The main street by the river has cafés, restaurants and bars. At sunset you sit on the Town Green looking over the mouth of the Hastings River.
Along the promenade on the Hastings River there are fish and chips and cafés at low prices. Sit by the water with your food — you'll often see pelicans.
A laundromat in town — handy if you're travelling by van or the hostel has no free machines.
Yes, an entry fee has been charged since 2024. Every day at 3 pm there's a tour with feeding.
From June to November, best from Tacking Point Lighthouse and the headlands along the coastal walk.
About 9 kilometres from the town centre to Tacking Point Lighthouse. You can walk it in sections and take the bus back.
All spots on the Port Macquarie map. Nearby: Coffs Harbour to the north and Port Stephens to the south. The coast at a glance on the Legendary Pacific Coast road trip.
Updated September 2026. Checked against official sources and operator websites. Prices, opening hours and seasons change — check before you go.