5 Things to Do in Port Macquarie This Summer

When summer hits the Mid North Coast, Port Macquarie bursts into life. The days stretch long and golden, the ocean warms to that perfect temperature, and everything slows to the rhythm of the tides. This is the season when the coastal town truly shines — a time for morning swims, lazy lunches, and salty-haired adventures that last well into the evening.

The best way to start your summer day in Port Macquarie is by catching the sunrise at Town Beach. There’s something magical about watching the horizon shift from deep indigo to fiery gold as the sun climbs over the Pacific. Locals are usually out early — surfers paddling into glassy waves, joggers tracing the shoreline, and families setting up for a morning swim before breakfast. If you’ve always dreamed of learning to surf, this is the place to do it. Local operators like Port Macquarie Surf School offer friendly, small-group lessons right on Flynns Beach, helping beginners of all ages catch their first wave in safe, sheltered conditions.

Once you’ve shaken the sand from your towel, head to the marina for a Hastings River Cruise. The late afternoon sailings are pure magic. As the breeze picks up and the light softens, dolphins often appear beside the boat, racing playfully through the wake. Whether you choose a laid-back sightseeing trip or a sunset cruise with a cool drink in hand, the views of the estuary and hinterland hills are unforgettable. It’s one of those quintessential Port Macquarie experiences that leaves you feeling completely at ease.

When the midday sun gets high, escape to the shade of Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, just a few minutes from town. A raised boardwalk winds through dense subtropical forest, alive with birdsong and the scent of eucalyptus. The air is cooler here, filtered through green light, and you can easily lose an hour or two exploring the trails or enjoying a coffee at the café tucked among the trees.

As evening approaches, follow the scent of the ocean breeze back toward the foreshore. Summer dining in Port Macquarie is all about freshness and flavour. Treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of handcrafted gelato at Blue Cow Gelato, where everything is made on-site, or settle into Bills Fishhouse + Bar for a dinner of grilled seafood and local wine. The atmosphere is relaxed, the flavours are bold, and the sound of waves crashing in the distance reminds you why this little coastal gem is so loved.

Port Macquarie in summer is an invitation to slow down, savour, and soak up everything the coast has to offer. From sunrise swims to rainforest walks, it’s the kind of place where memories are made naturally — without rush, without fuss, just pure coastal joy.