by Jessica Matthews
We have family in and around Port Macquarie and visit a few times a year. As such, we’ve checked out lots of activities and locations for kids and thought it might be good to share this info! If you’ve been thinking about visiting Port Macquarie with the family—do it! Located just over 4 hours north of Ryde (let’s say 5 by the time you allow a break or two with kids!), it’s a fantastic holiday destination.
This list is in no particular order and offers activities for all four seasons of the year.
Roller Skating / Blading Rink
Planet Skate is our kids’ number one pick, maybe because there isn’t anywhere close to the Ryde area for roller skating or blading. Not only do they offer roller skating and blading, they also offer paintball with non-paint guns that resemble Nerf guns
You can rent skates on-site, and they provide knee and elbow pads for kids at no extra cost. They hold several sessions each day from Wednesday to Sunday, with extended hours during school holidays—so be sure to check their website for the latest information. The venue is pram-friendly and offers plenty of seating for spectators. Plus, their kiosk serves a variety of drinks, snacks, and delicious oven-fresh pizzas.
Learn more and book here.
WildNets
Having visited family in Port Macquarie for over 25 years, we finally made it to Wild Nets on our latest trip, and it was well worth the wait. Just 15 minutes from the center of Port Macquarie, this adventure park offers action-packed play and climbing for kids as young as one to grandparents aged 60+. Wild Nets features different netted areas designed to cater to varying levels of intensity, with ball sizes and challenges to match. You’ll find tunnels, slides, tree houses, and even suspension bridges, ensuring that every member of the family can find something thrilling to enjoy.
At $25 for two hours, Wild Nets provides excellent value for money. There are also family passes available, making it even more affordable for groups. Remember to wear fully enclosed shoes and consider a long-sleeve top for extra protection. Make sure to book your session via their website as they tend to sell out quickly.
More info on their website here.
Spring Loaded
Spring Loaded Port Macquarie is a paradise for kids. Free play sessions start on the hour, with a discount available if you book consecutive hours. The facility features a fantastic array of activities, including trampolines, monkey bars, soft play areas, balance beams, ropes, and more. It’s a delightful blend of gymnastics, play centre, and ninja warrior challenges that kids absolutely love.
There’s a convenient kiosk on-site and ample parking available. No need to pre-book—just arrive about 10 minutes before your preferred start time to pay and collect wristbands for the kids. Parents can watch from a raised seating area, and children aged 6 and under must be accompanied by a parent in the play area for supervision at all times.
More info on their website here.
Timbertown
A fun day out with a history lesson—how good! Timbertown’s aim as you walk through the park is to awaken the senses, sights, sounds, smells, and tastes from the late 1800s to early 1900s, immersing you in an exciting time of Australian history.
Take a ride on their steam train or in a horse and carriage, and try panning for gold and gemstones at the Cedar Creek water wheel. There are food and drink options on-site, and they are open every day in the school holidays. Timbertown is best enjoyed as a full-day outing.
Learn more here.
Maxx Family Fun Centre
A great indoor option for very hot or rainy cold days and it’s perfect for car lovers. On offer:
- Golf Stimulator
- Slot Car Racing
- Racing Car Stimulators
- Virtual Reality Rooms
You can call ahead to book or view their Facebook page or website. Their Facebook page doesn’t make it look very child-focused but it’s very popular with kids as they host a lot of parties and have great facilities for kids!
Learn more here.
Centre of Gravity Indoor Adventure Centre
Here’s another great wet day option—this one is all about rock climbing, bouldering, and laser tag. One for the adventure kids and probably suited to ages 6/7+ that would be confident to give it a try although they welcome kids 3+. Kids under 10 require a parent/helper to hold their ropes.
During school holidays they are open 7 days a week and reduced to 5 days during the school term.
Learn more here.
Billabong Zoo, Koala and Wildlife Park
Located near the famous donut roundabout as you enter Port Macquarie, this place will please everyone. You can feed the animals, enjoy zoo talks and shows, or book personal encounters. You can pat, stroke, feed, hold, hear, and see over 80 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. They care for over 200 animals in this friendly 10-acre Koala and Wildlife Park.
They are open 7 days a week except Christmas Day.
Learn more here.
Camel Ride at Lighthouse Beach
Now this is a fun activity! Enjoy a camel ride down the picturesque Lighthouse Beach, which is just a 3-minute drive from the centre of Port Macquarie.
They do not accept bookings, so simply head down to Lighthouse Beach along Matthew Flinders Drive, one kilometre south of the Tacking Point Surf Club. Ride times are between 9:30 am and 1:00 pm; during NSW School Holidays, they extend rides to operate between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
They do not take EFTPOS (cash only) and operate every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Learn more here.
Koala Hospital
This self-guided hospital tour is a great opportunity to really see koalas up close. As a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility, the Koala Hospital has been helping rescue and rehabilitate koalas since 1973. The facility is run by Koala Conservation Australia Limited, a not-for-profit organisation with approximately 200 volunteers dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating koalas and conserving and restoring their natural habitats.
Located on the grounds of the beautiful historic Roto House, they are open every day from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, except Christmas Day when closed.
Learn more here.
Hydro Golf and Putt Putt
Hydro Golf and Putt Putt is set on Boundary Street and is a family favourite. The 27-hole putt-putt course is shaded by some beautiful palm trees and umbrellas. Bunkers and creative holes make a challenging and fun game for everyone. Golf equipment is included with your purchase.
They are open seven days a week, rain, hail or sine and include all-weather /covered options. They have activities available for all ages and abilities, from beginners to avid golfers. The outdoor venue is groomed with lush green lawns, palm trees, and picnic areas, which are perfect for a relaxed yet fun environment.
Hydro Golf has a variety of floating targets offering various sponsored prizes, including a chance to win cash on the Jackpot target, which can attract numerous winners each day.
Learn more here.
Bago Winery a MAZE!
This is a winner all round. While the kids navigate the maze, you can unwind with a selection of wines and cheese platters, enjoying the view from the grassy area overlooking the maze. Tickets for both the maze and cheese platters can be conveniently pre-booked on their website.
During public holidays, the seating area next to the winery tasting café can get quite busy. However, if the weather is good, you can take advantage of the ample green space for a relaxing picnic.
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the open green areas but are not allowed in the maze or at the winery tasting café. Plus, there’s a delightful chocolate shop on-site where you might even catch a glimpse of chocolates being made or create your own custom treats!
Learn more or book here.
Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk
The Sea Acres Rainforest boardwalk is an easy 1.3 km walk through the rainforest canopy with some beautiful scenery to be enjoyed. You’ll see rainforest birds and animals. It’s a great walk for all ages who are able to walk the distance. There is also a cafe on site.
Learn more here.
Ricardos Tomatoes and Strawberries
One of our favourite things to do, Ricardos is about a 15-minute drive from the Port Macquarie CBD via Hastings River Drive. Here, you or your kids can pick your own strawberries with a bucket and scissors. You then pay based on the weight of the strawberries you collected. They grow over 30,000 strawberry plants in their various greenhouses, plus 8 varieties of strawberries.
There’s also an onsite cafe and shop where you can buy tomatoes, all kinds of strawberry jam, and everything else in between. They are normally open 7 days a week. No need to pre-book.
Learn more here.
Wave Bowling
Great for a rainy day, Wave Bowling offers not only bowling but also karaoke if you’re in the mood!
It is recommended you book, and of course, they have shoe hire and food and drink options onsite.
There’s a car park right out the front.
Learn more here.
Swim, Surf or Play at Town Beach
A great family beach option with the added benefit that it is patrolled, usually from September to April. It has modern toilet and shower facilities with a kiosk and car park running the length of the beach, but in summer, the parking fills up quickly!
There are also open grassed areas with some shade overlooking the beach with picnic facilities. The kiosk offers fresh delicious food, good coffee, and a view with a side order of sea breeze! Nearby, there is a modern and innovative playground, outdoor gym equipment, and a skate park. Take a short stroll and you will arrive at the picturesque Town Beach break wall with its colourful graffiti rocks, a popular and iconic site.
Learn more here.
Stoney Aqua Park
Located in Telegraph Point, this is a kid’s paradise, and one you’ll love as kids are guaranteed to sleep that night. It is recommended for kids 7 and older, but remember it is on the water.
The Aqua Park is based on a man-made lake sourced from a fresh rainwater catchment. Slides, blast bags, trampolines, swings, challenge tracks, balance beams, wobble pads, and chill-out areas are just a few of the many and varied features enclosed within the extensive walkways and floating tracks of the course.
Sessions start on the hour, and you need to arrive 30 minutes prior to your start time. You can do one hour, 2-hour, or full-day packs. On dry land, there are BBQs available (a dollar to start them) and a kiosk, as well as lots of grass space to sit and enjoy a picnic.
Normally open from September school holidays until the end of April.
Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises
Port Macquarie has an abundance of cruises depending on the time of year. You can enjoy whale watching, dolphin cruises, jet ski rides, jet boat rides, and more. There are quite a few local businesses that offer this type of activity. The best source of information is Trip Advisor, where you can see current offerings.
View that list here.
Where to Eat
The Beach House
1 Town Green, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
Right on Town Green, The Beach House has great waterfront views and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for families. With a menu ranging from fresh seafood to burgers, there’s something for everyone. The kids’ menu and outdoor seating make it easy to enjoy the scenery while the little ones play. More info here.
Pancake Place
68 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
A long-time family fave, Pancake Place is perfect for a fun, tasty meal. They serve up sweet and savory pancakes, plus salads, burgers, and seafood. With its quirky decor and friendly vibe, it’s a hit with kids, who also get their own special menu. More info here.
The Stunned Mullet
6/35-37 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
For a more upscale meal, try The Stunned Mullet. Located by the beach, this award-winning spot serves up fresh, local Australian dishes. It’s a bit pricier but worth it for the quality and vibe, plus there’s a kids’ menu with healthier choices. More info here.
Zebu Bar & Grill
Rydges Hotel, 1 Hay Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
Located in the Rydges Hotel, Zebu Bar & Grill offers great views of the Hastings River, the menu ranges from wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood and meat dishes, with a special kids’ menu to keep everyone happy. More info here.
Little Fish Café
18-22 Sancrox Road, Sancrox NSW 2446
Nestled in a beautiful vineyard, Little Fish Café offers a relaxed vibe with French-inspired dishes. Enjoy the scenic views while the kids play in the outdoor area. More info here.
Bills Fishhouse + Bar
3/5 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
A relaxed spot with fresh seafood and a coastal vibe. It’s family-friendly with a kids’ menu and activities to keep the little ones entertained. More info here.
Where to Stay
Rydges
1 Hay Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
A modern hotel with a pool and direct access to the waterfront, perfect for families. More info here.
Sails Resort by Rydges
20 Park Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
A beachfront resort with spacious family rooms and a lagoon-style pool. More info here.
Mantra The Observatory
40 William Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Stylish apartments with ocean views and a pool, offering a relaxed stay for families. More info here.
Northpoint Apartments
28-34 North Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Comfortable, self-contained apartments with easy access to the beach and local attractions. More info here
Holiday Inn Resort
1 Hay Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
A family-friendly resort with a range of activities, including a kids’ club and pool. More info here.
See more NSW travel guides here!
