Port Macquarie School Holiday Fun
The Port Macquarie school holiday experience is one of a kind – with no shortage of adventures and thrills for kids of all ages. For more information about these activities and more, visit Port Macquarie Info.
At this time of year it’s tough to think of anything beyond the excitement of Christmas. But savvy parents know there’s a long hot summer ahead. Curious kids will be looking for holiday fun and adventure. If you live in Port Macquarie or you’re planning a stay, check out some of Coastbeat’s favourite activities.
Get Your Hands Dirty
Homegrown Organics supplies Mid North Coast families with fresh organic produce from their market garden. In January they have four unique, nature-based farm workshops on offer for children and families. They are suitable for different ages, and there are options for parents to leave children or to stay and participate. Kids in the Garden, Kids in the Bush and Kids Under the Stars. Then there’s Off Grid Living for the whole family. Book now!
Learn to Surf
If your young ones are keen to ride the waves, there are numerous local surf schools happy to enrol new students. Port Macquarie Surf School offers a range of private and group lessons as well as a junior development program for 5-12 year olds. Whether you’re after a taster or a multi-day experience, this licensed Surfing Australia surf school has you covered. There are daily lessons and weekly classes as well as intensive options. Book in now and learn this life long skill!
Bago Maze
Kids and grown-ups alike will love Bago Maze. The maze is now into its 15th year of growth and is maintained at 2.3 metres high. It’s the largest hedge maze in the state with the opportunity to explore two kilometres of trails. Bago Maze at Bago Vineyards is in the town of Wauchope, a short drive west of Port Macquarie. Take the opportunity to wind down with a glass of locally made wine or sweet treat from the resident artisan chocolatier.
And in the heart of Port Macquarie, here are some great options…
Centre of Gravity
Why not try something different these holidays with indoor rock climbing? Centre of Gravity is in the industrial area of town, on Jindalee Road and provides the opportunity to rock climb in air-conditioned comfort. The centre offers climbs for ages 3 and up and kids can work their way through caving sequences and a ropes course. All fitness and skill levels are catered to. Not one for heights or climbing? No problem. You can find your thrills at the laser tag arena instead.
Sea Acres Rainforest
One of the largest remaining coastal rainforest reserves in New South Wales, the beautifully preserved Sea Acres is a treat for the senses. Begin at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre to learn about local Aboriginal culture and the rainforest environment. Pick up a brochure and head to the 1.3km boardwalk to spot rare rainforest birds, goannas and, if you’re lucky, a slithering diamond python (guided tours are also an option), before ending your visit with lunch under the canopy at the Rainforest Café.
The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is run by a team of passionate volunteers who care for over 250 injured or ill koalas every year. The koala hospital is open every day from 8am but all visits must be pre-booked. If you’re feeling generous, pick a koala to ‘adopt’ and you’ll receive a certificate and information pack, or choose a furry souvenir from the Koala Shop before you leave.
Port Macquarie Indoor Stadium
Children can get amongst team sports, art, jumping castles, table tennis and movies at the Indoor Stadium. This social and safe environment is for kindy to year six students. Choose from sessions starting December 17 and continuing to the 23rd or in early 2021 from January 4-22. Bookings must be made in advance.
On the Water
Almost as much fun as being in the water! Take a deep-sea fishing charter or a twilight dolphin cruise. Check out Port Jet Cruise Adventures for cruises, jet boats and jet skis (hot tip: kids will have a ball in the boom net), or head out on a luxe Catamaran with Port Sailing.
Camel Rides
Camels! Wait..what? Yep, Port’s got ’em. You can go camel riding on stunning Lighthouse Beach. It’s one of those rare experiences that you have to take while it’s there. Visit Port Macquarie Camel Safaris.
Or Horse Rides
Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre have an awesome program of rides these holidays, with something for everyone’s ability considered. There are team game days, beginner camps, private lessons, winery trail rides or pony rides for the littlies.
Hastings River Horseriding offers long and leisurely trail rides through our beautiful Wauchope Hinterland, where you and your trusty steed can finish off with a refreshing river swim. Oh, and they are also doing beach rides so you can finally tick that off your bucket list!
And just a short drive away…
Stoney Aqua Park
Release your inner child at the Stoney Aqua Park, a supersized water adventure land complete with floating trampolines, obstacles, slides, ladders and swings. Situated on a freshwater manmade lake ten minutes north of Port Macquarie, the park is manned by a team of lifeguards and is safe for kids aged 3 and upwards (children under 6 require parental supervision).
The Billabong Zoo
10 minutes from the heart of Port, you’ll find Billabong Zoo. Home to 200 different animals, including lions, cheetahs and penguins, the Billabong Zoo lives up to its award-winning reputation. Wander the park at your leisure or join daily feeding presentations by experienced guides to gain a deeper insight into your favourite animal – watching the huge resident crocodile, Shrek, being fed his lunch is sure to be a highlight!
Hinterland Adventures
Head to the charming town of Wauchope, an easy 25 minute drive west of Port Mac, for great shopping, cafes, and the much loved Timbertown Heritage Theme Park. Steam train lovers take note! From Wauchope you can drive over to Beechwood (home to the popular Beechwood Hotel), Byabarra, and the beautiful rolling hills of Comboyne. It’s a great day out.
GROW Sustainable Living Farm
This GROW farm is well worth the one hour trip from Port Macquarie. There are a wide range of micro-courses on offer for adults and fun activities for little farmers, too. The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party includes goodies to eat and drink, games and the chance to pat baby animals. There are also Mini Mountain Goat Tours and Down on the Farm Tours that include egg, fruit, vegetable and herb collection as well as time with the resident lambs, chickens, dogs and alpacas.
Meet Lewis the Koala
Step into Port Central Shopping Centre and meet Lewis the Koala. The heroic rescue effort and tragic death of this local koala inspired world recognised artists Gillie and Marc to create a sculpture in its honour. The sculpture takes pride of place at Port Central. Visit today and read about the devastating effect of last summer’s bushfires and what’s being done to protect our precious wildlife.
All images courtesy of Greater Port Macquarie Tourism.