Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie is located on the north coast of New South Wales, 400km from Sydney by the Hastings River and the Tasman Sea.

Land used to build Port Macquarie was originally owned by the Roman Catholic Church. The church also helped develop the town.

It has around 65,000 residents and extends from the southern suburb, Lighthouse Beach, to the area known to locals as the 'North Shore'.

Port Macquarie was discovered by John Oxley in 1818 and he named Port Macquarie after Lachlan Macquarie, then the Governor of New South Wales.

Enjoy its sub-tropical climate where temperatures range from 8 degrees Celsius in winter to a balmy 32 degrees Celsius in summer.

People seek out Port Macquarie for beach holidays and a place for retiring.

Port Macquarie attractions

Visitors and locals alike spend their time surfing and swimming in its eight beaches, including Town, Oxley and Rockey beaches.

Outdoor activities don't stop there with plenty of scuba diving, ocean and river fishing and exploring nature parks to do.

There is also a wide selection of bars and clubs for you to unwind.

Port Macquarie wildlife

It's also a popular spot to see Australia's native wildlife such as the furry favourites - koalas.

You can guarantee a viewing of the shy creatures at the Billabong Koala Park.

Port Macquarie accommodation

For holiday makers, Port Macquarie has a range of accommodation such as hotels, resorts and apartments, and also has a regional airport nearby.

Beach town, Kempsie, and bushwalking haven, Telegraph Point, are also towns worth visiting during your time at Port Macquarie.