Sneak a peek through the telescope at the astronomical observatory on one of its public viewing and presentation nights.
Observatory
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
0.89 MILES
A patrolled beach nestled between two rocky headlands. Excellent for learner surfers.
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3.33 MILES
This little lighthouse (1879) commands a headland offering immense views along the coast. It’s a great spot from which to watch the waves roll in to long,…
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22.05 MILES
Known for its rock formations and rugged cliffs, this park backs onto a long and beautiful beach. A 4.8km (two-hour) loop track heads over the Diamond…
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2.26 MILES
The 72-hectare pocket of Sea Acres National Park protects the state's largest and most diverse stand of coastal rainforest. At the Rainforest Centre you…
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0.83 MILES
Chlamydia, traffic accidents and dog attacks are the biggest causes of illness and injury for koalas living near urban areas; about 250 end up in this…
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22.09 MILES
This sleek building commemorates Australian icon and country-music legend Slim Dusty, who was born in Kempsey. Inside you'll discover the man's music, his…
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17.76 MILES
This little park immediately north of Crowdy Bay National Park and on the shores of Watson Taylor Lake is dominated by North Brother Mountain. A sealed…
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Douglas Vale Historic Homestead & Vineyard
1.38 MILES
Wine is produced from remnants of the little-known Isabella grapes planted here in the 1860s by George Frances. The homestead was founded in 1859 and you…
Nearby attractions
0.14 MILES
Close to the town centre, this lovely beach is particularly good for surfing, and is patrolled in summer.
0.24 MILES
The old pilot station (1882) above Town Beach has been converted into a small maritime museum, which is full of character. Allow a good hour to pore over…
0.34 MILES
Port's breakwater has been transformed into a work of community guerrilla art. The elaborately painted rocks range from beautiful memorials to ‘party hard…
0.46 MILES
This 1824 convict-built church is one of Australia’s oldest functioning churches. It retains its original box pews and crenulated tower, which apes the…
5. Port Macquarie Historical Museum
0.47 MILES
An 1830s house has been transformed into this surprisingly interesting and detailed museum. Aboriginal and convict history are given due regard before…
0.49 MILES
One of Port’s loveliest colonial buildings, the historic courthouse was used from its opening in 1869 right up until 1986. Inside there are historical…
7. Glasshouse Regional Gallery
0.51 MILES
This dynamic multilevel space provides an interesting overview of local creativity, and hosts regular touring exhibitions from Australia's top museums and…
8. Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park
0.66 MILES
Encompassing 50 hectares of bush and wetland, this park is home to over 160 bird species. A series of walking trails and wheelchair-accessible boardwalks…