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Port Macquarie Coastal Walk is a 9 km walking track situated in the Sea Acres National Park. It’s easily accessible location between Brisbane and Sydney makes Port Macquarie a perfect stopover destination for travelers looking for a quick getaway. With its lush ocean views, ragged cliffs, historic sites, scenic walking trails, and diverse wildlife, tourists can have countless, unforgettable vacation escapades.
This New South Wales territory was once inhabited by the Aboriginal Birpai people of Australia for over 40,000 years. Tourists wishing to learn more about the Birpai people may visit Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.
Hiking Guide
Your hike along Port Macquarie can be divided into four routes:
WestPort to Town Beach (2 km)
A fairly easy route, tourists can begin walking from Westport Park, passing by the Hasting River and proceeding to the Town Centers. Take photos of the rock murals and be on the lookout for dolphins. Stop by the playgrounds at Town Beach or drop by the skate park at the end of the break wall.
Town Beach to Flynns Beach (2.2km)
Despite some steep staircases, the phenomenal views of Port Macquarie’s alluring coastlines make up for the moderate hiking experience. Town Beach has lookouts during the whale watching tours during the annual migration.
Flynns Beach to Shelley Beach (2.2 km)
This is a fairly medium route, as tourists have to cross steep sections, tidal areas and beaches. When exploring Shelley Beach, tourists are advised to cautiously walk down the stairs and avoid the rocky areas, which are inaccessible during high tides. It’s best to take a stroll at the Shelley Beach picnic area.
Shelley Beach to Tacking Point (2.7 km)
Depending on experience, Shelley Beach can be a moderate or difficult walking tour. Visitors can take the trail from Shelley Beach to Miners Beach. Keep an eye Koalas in the Sea Acres Nature Reserve. Getting to Tack Point House Bay via Little Pay may result in a steep section, so this route requires extra care. Finally, enjoy the picturesque views at Tacking Point Lighthouse as you take a short break from your walking tour.
All four routes provide water bottle filling stations and seating. Toilets are accessible except for the route from Shelley Beach to Tacking Point.
Coastal Views
Port Macquarie Coastal Walk offers stunning picturesque views of lush green mountains, stunning ragged coastlines, and peaceful, blue waves that bring serenity and healing to one’s weary soul. Walking barefoot in the seashore while basking in the golden Australian sun, tourists are soothed by Port Macquarie’s glistening turquoise blue waters. Its lush oceans host the best whale sighting during their annual migration from May to November. Avid wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to witness the congregation of Humpbacks, Orcas, Southern Right Whales, Killer Whales, and Minke.
Places along the way
As an emerging tourist destination, Port Macquarie Coastal Walk boast interesting locations that are worthy of visiting. Nature lovers and animal enthusiasts should visit Billabong Zoo: Koala and Wildlife Park. First opened in 1989, the Billabong Zoo is globally recognized as a breeding center for koalas. After the change of administration in 2005, it changed its image to a wildlife park.
Close encounters with over 80 species of friendly Australian and exotic animals provide an intimate experience. Watch the free Zoo talks at designated hours, feed the friendly kangaroos, wallabies, and wallaroos, or have up-close encounters with some of the animals including cheetahs, koalas, meerkats, red pandas, snakes, and snow leopards.
Because of its image as a Koala breeding facility, Koala photo sessions are the most popular activity for tourists.
Tickets are sold at AUD $34 for adults, AUD $19 for kids, and AUD $32 for pensioners.
Cycling details
Port Macquarie is abundant in bike paths, bike lanes and trails to create your own cycling routes, whether you’re a beginner or a professional. Cycle along the flat pathways of Port Macquarie Breakwall and Town Beach Ride, be mesmerized by the peacefulness of the Hastings River, and check out the colorful rock art painted with inspiring messages and tributes to departed souls. Other recommended cycling routes include the Sea Acres Nature Reserve Rid and the Tacking Point Lighthouse Ride. More adventurous rides and trips await at Wauchope and Lake Cathie.
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