Attention Canberra! Thanks to direct flights from FlyPelican, paradise is closer than ever. A 90 minute flight, to be exact. Flights between Canberra and Port Macquarie commence on 1st November 2020 and we are so excited to welcome our friends from the ACT! Click on the link below to search for flights, and scroll down for some great suggestions for a short break in Port Mac.
Flying in for a few days in paradise? Here's our suggested itinerary (or for a more family friendly option, click here).
But first....With 17 pristine beaches to choose from, we've put together a Local's guide to our beaches here, to maximise your time in the sun!
Suggested 3-day FIFO Itinerary
DAY 1
A pleasant 40 minute drive south of Port is the stunning Camden Haven, where you'll find Diamond Head. Soak up the serenity in a secluded spot and admire the lush rainforests and golden sand. Located in Crowdy Bay National Park, this track offers sweeping views across Crowdy Bay without the big crowds. Finish off with a swim at Diamond Head Beach. If you're feeling a little too relaxed for the walk, drive to Diamond Head Campground and the iconic 'Split Rock' is a short walk on the beach from there. Then you'll have time to visit the lovely Queens Lake at Laurieton before you head into the Hinterland.
⦁ LUNCH BREAK
Nestled in the stunning Hinterlands, a gorgeous drive through farmland and forest, The Byabarra Café & Bar offers spectacular views, a licensed bar and hearty food.
Admire the natural 200-metre beauty from the viewing platform or the more adventurous can take the 641 timber steps to the bottom to hear the roar and feel the spray.
⦁ DINNER
The Stunned Mullet has sweeping views over Town Beach and is perfect for an enchanting dinner. Offering a seasonal menu with a focus on local and specialty ingredients, incredible wines and sublime service, you are in for an amazing dining experience.
- UNIQUE BOUTIQUE STAY
Akuna Luxury Waterfront Retreat is one of Port's newest and most luxurious accommodation offerings. Think open fire, waterfront, views and luxe decor. Treat yourselves!
DAY 2
⦁ RELAX
Indulge in a luxury spa experience at the Port Macquarie Day Spa. Here you can relax in a beautiful peaceful environment and spend a day being pampered with your partner.
⦁ BRUNCH
Little Fish Cafe & Vineyard is such a pretty and romantic spot it's been voted #1 'Brides Choice' several years running! Only a short 10 minute drive from the center of Port.
⦁ SHOP
You will find many outlets brimming with goodies to tempt you. Check out Arthouse Industries, where you will find unique hand-made glass jewelry and watch Skye Petho at work creating her pieces.
⦁ WINERY AND CRAFT BEER BREWERY TOUR
Sip away on an array of wines before delving into the craft brewery scene. A perfect afternoon adventure for both beer & wine lovers with Tour guide Michael from Frankie’s Travel.
⦁ BREAKWALL
Watch the sunset together by the breakwall at Town Beach and read the collage of messages on the graffiti rocks by locals and visitors. If you're there earlier in the day, be sure to drop into the delightful Little Shack cafe where you can drink straight out of a coconut under a fringed umbrella whilst enjoying the water views!
⦁ GRAB A PRE-SHOW SNACK
Oozing atmosphere and ambiance, boasting a forward thinking menu to please all palates and an extensive drinks list, Botanic Wine Garden is the perfect place for a bite to eat before the show.
Take in an excellent show or intimate concert in the magical theatre setting and enjoy a glass of wine at an evening art talk with leading artists and curators. Performing arts and music flourish locally in this cultural hub, offering a world of cultural experiences.
⦁ SWEET DREAMS
Port's premium resort, Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges, is set over expansive grounds fronting the marina and river. It has recently undergone a multi-million dollar extension and renovation, with an instagram-worthy pool deck and a Hamptons-inspired feel. Spoil yourselves with buffet breakfast at The Boathouse Restaurant or drop in to the bar for a night cap.
DAY 3
⦁ BEACH YOGA, SWIM, BREKKIE at TOWN BEACH
Start your day with gentle stretches, breathing exercises and relaxation with a Beach Yoga class held on Town Beach by Yoga Shala.
⦁ BREAKFAST at SALTY CREW KIOSK
Right on Town Beach, this favourite has one of the best views in town, healthy treats and great coffee.
⦁ STRAWBERRY PICKING
Call in to Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries and experience the pleasure of picking your own plump, luscious strawberries. Enjoy a free farm tour undertaken weekdays from 11am and sample award-winning jams, condiments and pickles.
- LUNCH
Whalebone Wharf Restaurant has a prime frontage to the mighty Hastings River, and decor and menu to match! The perfect lunch date venue.
Visit the world’s first Koala Hospital, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating koalas. Pre-bookings are essential. Entry is free/by donation.
⦁ COASTAL WALK AND SUNSET
Wander along a section of the Coastal Walk as the sun sets.
⦁ PRE- DINNER DRINKS
Bar Florian is a classy, comfortable, easygoing Italian style wine bar with a comprehensive wine list. Perfect for a pre- dinner drink.
⦁ DINNER
Bills Fishhouse and Bar is a casual, modern dining space that embraces locally sourced, seasonal and sustainable ingredients to produce simple, uncomplicated food. A space that boasts a buzzing vibe.
