The debate about which city offers the best climate in Australia is never-ending. Melbourne is famous for having four seasons a day, Brisbane is sunny but humid, Sydney enjoys moderate weather but it’s rainier than other Australian capitals. If you’re in the process of relocating or weather is a factor for you while planning your holidays, consider Port Macquarie in NSW. Nestled on the mid-North Coast, the town is a sun-splashed destination that is quickly becoming a go-to spot for NSW residents looking to escape the cold. According to CSIRO, it has the best climate in Australia with equally mild winters and summers. The claim is somewhat contentious with cities like Perth, Cairns and Darwin giving the coastal town tough competition. Here’s everything you need to know about the picturesque town.
Port Macquarie
A beachside escape that is easy to access, thanks to its vicinity to major cities, Port Macquarie is popular amongst all kinds of vacation seekers but especially for those looking for a temperate climate, golden beaches and a quiet, laidback vibe. Winter is an excellent time to visit with whale watching, winter markets and plenty of native wildlife to discover.
Things to do
Port Macquarie is home to the highest koala population on the east coast of Australia and there are plenty of encounters on offer with these cuddly creatures. Head to the Billabong Zoo: Koala and Wildlife Park to meet koalas and learn more about the park’s koala breeding program or book a guided tour of the Koala Hospital which treats and rehabilitates sick koalas. Don’t miss the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail displayed across the Port Macquarie region featuring 87 one-metre fibreglass koala sculptures beautifully painted by local artists.
If you want to enjoy a warm winter swim, there are plenty of beaches and swimming spots on offer including Lighthouse Beach which is ideal for long walks and camel safari rides, Flynns Beach where you can also go fishing, the dog-friendly Nobbys Beach and Town Beach, perfect for surfing.
May to November are peak months for whale watching as thousands of whales migrate north. Fail-safe vantage points to see these remarkable creatures include Tacking Point Lighthouse, Perpendicular Point and Charles Hamey Lookout. The Sea Acres Rainforest boardwalk is another must-do in Port Macquarie. The easy 1.3km walk winds past rainforest and canopy offering visitors a glimpse of native birds and animals like goannas, the Scarlet Robin and even diamond pythons.
Other cosy winter activities include strolling along the town’s weekend markets which offer an unmissable atmosphere with locally made goods, hot treats, retail stalls and entertainment. Check out the Foreshore Markets at Westport Park which is held on the 2nd Saturday of the month or fill your bags at the Local Beachside Markets held at Town Beach on the 4th Sunday of the month. Find the full list of local markets here.
Where to eat and drink
As a coastal destination, Port Macquarie offers plenty of seaside eateries and restaurants along with wholesome foodie experiences. Head to Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries to pick your own produce and settle in for freshly baked scones and afternoon tea, book a table at The Stunned Mullet for the town’s best fine dining or enjoy a tipple at Bago Maze and Winery which also happens to be the home of one of the largest hedge mazes in the world. Whalebone Wharf offers fresh seafood and pretty views and Pancake Place is the spot to go to satiate your sweet tooth with stacked pancakes and desserts.
Best time to visit
Port Macquarie is a reliable sunny destination so the best time to visit depends entirely on your personal preference. If you’re eager to see the whales migrate, plan your trip between May and November, the milder months of spring and autumn are perfect for a road trip and outdoor activities.
Getting there
Port Macquarie is about a 4-hour drive from Sydney and six hours from Brisbane. You can catch an interstate train to the nearby Kendall and Wauchope stations or catch a direct flight from Sydney to Port Macquarie. Read more about the town and find accomodation options here.