Town Features | Natural Attractions | Other Activities | Heritage

Port Macquarie is situated on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, and boasts one of the most ideal climates in Australia. Summer temperatures average 23°C and winter a mild 19°C, making 'Port', as it is known to locals, the perfect holiday destination at any time of year. With a population of 45,000, Port Macquarie is an area of stunning natural beauty with a colonial history and all the amenities of a thriving resort town.

Established in 1821 as a penal settlement for convicts and criminals who had committed offences after arrival in Australia, the penal outpost closed by the late 1820's, and the area was opened up to pioneering settlers, who earned their livelihoods from timber getting and milling, dairying and farming. The large number of shipwrecks in the Hastings River and the river bar bear testament to the high volume of trade from the region.

• Museums – learn about Port Macquarie's rich convict and maritime history (Port Macquarie is one of the oldest penal colonies in Australia)
• Boutique shopping and two major shopping centres
• Abundant selection of restaurants and cafes
• Cinema and waterfront parks
• Heritage buildings
• Two 18 hole golf courses

• 13 picturesque, uncrowded beaches
• World Heritage listed National Parks
• Macquarie Nature Reserve
• Sea Acres Nature Reserve
• Beautiful river estuary system to explore
• Whale Watching (June to July and September to October)

• Astronomical Observatory
• Koala Hospital
• Billabong Koala Park
• Australian Wilderness Tours
• Boat Hire
• Port Venture scenic waterway cruises
• Aquatic Blue Charters for whale watching, fishing, diving and water thrill seekers
• Akuna Seaplane Flights
• Watercraft hire including dingys, boats, BBQ Boats, jet skies
• Port Macquarie Cruise Adventures for Dolphin River Cruises and Whale Watching

NSW School Holidays

NSW Department of Education
School Holiday Calendar link >>

Heritage

• New South Wales Heritage Office
• NSW Maritime Online
• World Heritage of the Hastings – Macleay Group