Hostel · Port Macquarie
Beachside Backpackers
Adults-only hostel minutes from Town Beach with garden, shared lounge, BBQ, nightly entertainment, and free Wi-Fi.
- Dorm bed
- A$30–45
- Wi-Fi
Passport · AustraliaNew South Wales

New South Wales · Australia
Uncommon stamp · 25 km circle
Not stamped yet
OverviewPage 2
Chill surf town
Port Macquarie is a laid-back coastal town on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, roughly halfway between Sydney and Byron Bay. Known as the "Koala Capital of Australia", it sits at the mouth of the Hastings River and is blessed with 17 beaches, lush coastal rainforest, and an abundance of wildlife. While not a full-blown backpacker party town, Port Mac (as the locals call it) is a brilliant stopover on the east coast trail — offering free activities, affordable accommodation, and a genuinely relaxed Australian coastal vibe that rewards travellers who slow down for a day or two.
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7.9 · A$30–45 dorm · adults-only hostel minutes from Town Beach with garden, shared lounge, BBQ, nightly entertainment, and free Wi-Fi
7.6 · A$30–45 dorm · the original and most awarded hostel in town, set in a heritage house with free pancake breakfast, saltwater pool, shared kitchen, and a homely vibe
7.1 · A$30–45 dorm · the most spacious option, feels more like a resort with a large outdoor pool, BBQ area, games room, table tennis, and Netflix in the TV cave
Hostel · Port Macquarie
Adults-only hostel minutes from Town Beach with garden, shared lounge, BBQ, nightly entertainment, and free Wi-Fi.
Hostel · Port Macquarie
The original and most awarded hostel in town, set in a heritage house with free pancake breakfast, saltwater pool, shared kitchen, and a homely vibe.
Hostel · Port Macquarie
The most spacious option, feels more like a resort with a large outdoor pool, BBQ area, games room, table tennis, and Netflix in the TV cave.
Tap one to see it, or + Plan to add it to your trip.
Nature · Port Macquarie
Explore the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre boardwalk through NSW's largest coastal rainforest — spot wild koalas in the canopy ($10 AUD)
Water · Port Macquarie
Kayak or stand-up paddleboard on the Hastings River (hire from $25 AUD/hour)
Water · Port Macquarie
Learn to surf at Flynn's Beach or Town Beach — sheltered breaks perfect for beginners (lessons from $55 AUD)
Water · Port Macquarie
Swim, snorkel, or simply relax at Shelly Beach, one of the prettiest coves on the coast (free)
Water · Port Macquarie
Take a camel ride along Lighthouse Beach at sunset (from $45 AUD)
Nature · Port Macquarie
Visit the Koala Hospital for the free daily 3 pm "Feed, Walk and Talk" tour — see koalas being rehabilitated up close (free, donations welcome)
Water · Port Macquarie
Walk the 9 km Coastal Walk from Town Beach to Tacking Point Lighthouse, passing Rocky Beach lookout, Nobby's Beach, and Harry's lookout (free)
Nature · Port Macquarie
Watch for dolphins and humpback whales (June-November) from the Coastal Walk lookouts (free)
No transport routes listed for Port Macquarie yet.
Getting here in fullComing soon · The Port Macquarie wall
Stamp Port Macquarie, then frame a selfie with your stamp and share it here or on your socials. Only stamped travellers can post. Month only, never the day, and the location is stripped from every photo.
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