Tans Take Port Macquarie
We spent 2 days in Port Macquarie – a beach town village sprinkled with incredible beaches and cafes and restaurants. It helped that the sun shone all day every day and was hard to believe this is their very mild winter.
We stayed at Sails a little out of town – but on the Port Macquarie Marina. The spa was a hit with our boys and the tennis courts got a workout along with the kayaks – we like to do all we can from sunrise to sunset. Simple rooms – ask for the ones on the marina side to get the sun throughout the day! Buffet breaky is always a hit with our boys.
We had dinner on the first night at the Little Shack a casual, fun vibe restaurant with simple style food and right on the Port Macquarie break wall. We loved it so much that we came back for a morning coffee and walked the break wall to the point, where there is a great skate park for the kids and a beautiful beach for a swim. The walk wraps around the coast and there are lots of kiosks and cafes along the way.
A highlight was the koala hospital – where they are caring for both injured and sick koalas – so they can be integrated back into their natural habitat. A not-for-profit run by warm, passionate volunteers. Being endangered – the boys loved hearing about how the koalas are rescued and cared for – all based on donations from those visiting and a ‘Go Fund Me’ that was raised after the bushfires. Make a difference to our koala’s future HERE.
Sunset at Nobby’s beach is a must – a swim from the rocks and a laugh at the dogs having the time of their lives as the sun set over the headland (dog and human heaven). We came back the next day for a swim in the crystal blue waters and would say this little gem of a beach was one of our favourites.
On the other side of town, we spent an afternoon alongside the Hastings River – a sunset drink and followed by dinner at BANKS café. A casual – but beautiful relaxed dining experience and the secret is to get their early and watch the sun go down across the banks of the river and the sky turn from orange to dusty pink while being treated to beautiful modern Australian food.
Whilst there wasn’t enough swell for us to surf in our time in Port – we could see the potential when the waves are on! We’re going to keep an eye on the forecasts and will be back to surf the many breaks along the coast of Port Macquarie – you’re really spoilt for choice when it comes to long stretches of beautiful beaches and empty line-ups.
EAT:
At Frankies Café for lunch or brekkie – great food and service right in the heart of Port Town.
Banks Cafe for dinner with a view – get there for 5pm to watch the sun go down – on the Hastings River in a beautiful white bungalow, amazing service, and food.
Breakfast, lunch, or dinner at The little Shack – fun vibe on the break wall of Port.
Blue Cow – the only place to go for Gelato.
Words: Debbie Tan
