Port Macquarie is a beautiful coastal community only about 4.5hours from Sydney. If you are looking for gorgeous beaches (many patrolled), the modern conveniences of things like a beach wheelchair and the option of taking a trip into the countryside for a total change of scene, then look no further.
I must declare from the outset that I have rather a soft spot for this area because growing up I loved to holiday with my Aunt at Lake Cathie (15 mins south of Port Macquarie) . It was a very carefree holiday with my days ‘filled’ by going to the beach and afternoon naps. It was definitely a slow pace at Lake Cathie with the big event, the once a week trip into Port Macquarie to go the supermarket (at the time there was no supermarket at Lake Cathie) and going to the tip was always an adventure because there was no garbage service! I guess when you are a kid you are intrigued by anything that is different to your day to day life even if it is a trip to the tip!
Port Macquarie has evolved so much in the time that I have been visiting. It used to be predominately a retirement town when my Aunt moved there. Now there is a mix of retirees and young families. This mix has mea
nt there has been development which I was wary of, but, I have to say Port Macquarie has managed to hold on to the things I like best. The locals are still friendly and keen for a chat, the beaches are pristine and quiet places can still be found in peak holiday season. The beauty is all around with dolphins often seen, rockpools to explore at the beach and beautiful rolling hills with cattle and green pastures not far away. It really is a gorgeous part of Australia. My tip is to take time to explore more than just the town centre and main beaches. Do the drive through Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills, North Haven, Laurieton even to Dunboggan. There are many pretty little towns that make up this area.
I am most impressed to see that Hasting’s Council has a Port Macquarie and surrounds disability and access information guide available. This even incorporates charging stations for scooters etc.
Read more here.
You should contact Port Macquarie Council… there’s been a lot of work done at Lake Cathie, Flynn’s and others in regards to accessible paths and toilets. Also town is very accessible and more work is about to start, especially walking paths from town beach all the way to Settlement Point. Also Sails Resort has just renovated, is totally accessible and has great access accommodation. Please note the showers at Rydges are no longer accessible… they put plexiglass between the toilet and showers…