It’s time to escape the winter chill!
Wanting to get out and explore Port Macquarie this winter? Needing some ideas to get out-and-about before things start to heat up? Look no further – we have all the best winter warmer activities for this season sorted!
As winter starts to draw to a close and cooler days are replaced with more sun and heat, there is still time to enjoy those activities that keep you inside and warm. Perfect weekend escapes to enjoy with the family, friends, or by yourself – letting you enjoy the very best of what Port Macquarie has to offer in winter! Whether you dare to layer up and brave the outdoors or enjoy a glass of your favourite overlooking a beautiful vineyard, there is plenty to do and see around the Mid-North Coast region.
A beautiful coastal escape for your next weekend getaway, Port Macquarie is nestled between Sydney and Brisbane making it the perfect distance to get out and explore the region over a few days. Mild winters and an abundance of sunny days (at least usually!), make it an ideal destination to spot some whales, enjoy delicious local produce and visit some iconic local attractions.
Get ready for the ultimate list of ways to keep warm in Port Macquarie this winter! A curated list of all the best local activities for you to try out this season. Creating this collection of six winter activities you MUST try!
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Go Whale Watching
Did you know Port Macquarie is one of the top destinations in New South Wales for whale watching?! Each year more than 40,000 whales make their way up and down the NSW coast between May and November. Weaving around the coastline as they make their northern migration, Port Macquarie’s elevated coastline makes the perfect viewing location to spot some whales! Grab some binoculars and sightsee yourself or book a tour on one of our local whale watching excursions and get the professionals to do the work for you.
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Visit a local Vineyard or Brewery
With a great year-round climate, Port Macquarie hosts an abundance of vineyards, wineries, and breweries. Each venue has their own unique offering, allowing you to find something to suit the tastes of even the fussiest in your group! From the sprawling hills at Bago Vineyards (make sure you check out the maze!), or the boutique Moorebeer Brewery for the very best in craft brews, there is plenty to explore on our doorstep.
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Discover Hello Koalas!
Our iconic local Hello Koala trail is a definite must-see when visiting Port Macquarie. The Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is an art project that celebrates the hero of our local area – our abundance of Koalas! These beautiful award-winning sculptures can be found all around town and make for a fun activity with kids (or not!), to go around and find them all! There are more than 80 sculptures to see, sure to keep you busy for the day and seeing the best Port Macquarie sights. Check out the Hello Koalas Gift Shop to start your adventure and pick-up a sightseeing map.
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Wander a Local Market
If there is something to count on each weekend in the Port Macquarie area is finding a great market to have a browse at! Whether it’s enjoying fresh local produce at the Wauchope Farmer’s Market or Real Food Markets at Port Central, exploring creations at The Artists Market at the Maritime Museum grounds, or keeping close to home and discovering a bit of everything at the Foreshore Markets at Westport Park. You’re sure to find a hidden delight at these amazing local stalls!
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Meet a Koala
Discover the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital to get up-close with our smallest local heroes! A licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility, the hospital is a central hub for scientific research, training, and education. With thousands of national and international tourists visiting each year, this is a great attraction to get out and explore the outdoors this winter. Hosting exhibit enclosures, a treatment clinic, intensive care units and rehabilitation yards – giving you the best look into how we care and protect these important animals locally.
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Escape the Cold!
For all the lovers of great food, great wine, and great coffee – Port Macquarie has it all. With stunning waterfront restaurants and cafes like our very own Aqua Restaurant & Hastings Coffee Co., you are sure to enjoy the experience of every meal! Be sure to check out our current seasonal menus and warm your winter with us.
So now we are leaving you with the hardest question of all – which winter escape will you be trying out first?! Will it be whale watching along the coast? Trying out a local winery? Or maybe trekking out around Port Macquarie to see the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail? You are not short on choice!
For more Winter Warmers themed goodness, check out our previous Winter Blogs;
- Nautilus College – Supporting Young People
- 6 Winter Hobbies you MUST try this Season
- Endeavour Clubhouse – Our Community
If you’re looking for somewhere to spend those colder evenings during winter, be sure to check out what’s happening at The Westport Club. Don’t miss out on our final weeks of winter warmers activity inside the club – be sure to grab a marshmallow and say hello to Violet at our outdoor firepit or enjoy a glass of your favourite while sitting fireside at Jimmy’s Bar & Lounge.