Skip to main content

Port Macquarie, NSW 2444

Mid North Coast · New South Wales · Population 47,693 · Median age 48

Port Macquarie is a coastal Mid North Coast town with 10 campsites, 29 hiking trails, and the popular Koala Hospital. Well-serviced for travellers with caf

T
Written by Touringuide Team

Port Macquarie sits on the Mid North Coast of NSW with a population of around 51,000. The town offers solid infrastructure for touring travellers, including multiple caravan parks and holiday cabins within walking distance of the town centre. The area is known for its outdoor recreation, with nearly 30 trails ranging from short laneways to longer walks through local bushland.

The Koala Hospital is a major drawcard, operating daily from 8:30am to 4pm and offering visitors a chance to see and learn about rescued koalas. A selection of pubs and casual dining options line the town, making it easy to find a meal after a day on the trails. With 32 public toilets and 19 shops and services, the town is well-equipped for self-contained travellers needing supplies or facilities.

About Port Macquarie — Demographics

ABS Census 2021
47,693
Population
48
Median Age
$1,282/wk
Median Household Income
2.2
Avg Household Size
$1,751/mo
Median Mortgage
$380/wk
Median Rent
64%
Home Ownership
31%
Renting
14%
Born Overseas
22%
University Educated
4.9%
Unemployment
4,311
Families

Travel Info

Must See

  • Koala Hospital — Open daily 8:30am–4pm; unique chance to see and learn about rescued koalas and local wildlife rehabilitation.

Must Do

  • Gray Street Laneway hiking trail — Short, accessible walk just 1km from town centre; easy to fit into a travel day.
  • Mrs York's Walk — Local hiking trail 1.7km away offering bushland scenery near the town.

Travel Tips

  • •Book caravan parks ahead during school holidays and weekends—the NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park and Port Macquarie Holiday Cabins fill quickly.
  • •The Koala Hospital opens at 8:30am; arrive early to avoid crowds and get a quieter experience with the animals.
  • •Stock up on supplies at town shops before heading to more remote trails; mobile coverage can be patchy in some bushland areas.
  • •Several hiking trails are short laneway walks (Gray Street, Leo's Lane, Diana Laneway) perfect for a quick leg-stretch between driving.
Traffic & Access: Port Macquarie is well-connected on the Mid North Coast and easy to access by road. Fuel and supplies are readily available in town. Main roads are standard highway; minor roads to trails may be narrow but suitable for caravans.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer pleasant temperatures and lower humidity for walking trails and exploring the town.

Nearby Suburbs

North Shore
Mid North Coast · 3.7km away
Riverside
Mid North Coast · 3.9km away
Thrumster
Mid North Coast · 10.3km away
Sancrox
Mid North Coast · 11.4km away
Blackmans Point
Mid North Coast · 12.6km away
Lake Cathie
Mid North Coast · 16.5km away
Explore Mid North CoastMore places in New South Wales

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is near Port Macquarie?

There are 10 campsites near Port Macquarie, including NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park (1.7km), Port Macquarie Holiday Cabins (1.7km), Flynn's Beach Caravan Park (2.2km).

What walks and trails are near Port Macquarie?

There are 10 walking trails near Port Macquarie, including Gray Street Laneway (1km), Leo's Lane (1.1km), Diana Laneway (1.6km).

Is there fuel near Port Macquarie?

Yes, there are 5 fuel stations near Port Macquarie, including Ampol Foodary Port Macquarie Lord St (1.5km), EG Ampol Port Macquarie (1.6km), Ampol Port Macquarie (2km).

What attractions are near Port Macquarie?

There are 10 attractions near Port Macquarie, including Roto House (1.5km), Koala Hospital (1.5km), Transit Hill Lookout (3.1km).