Originally a convict colony and one of the oldest towns in the state,Port Macquarie is now one of the largest holiday resorts on theNew South Wales coast. It's idyllic setting on both the mouth of theHastings River and a series of ocean beaches, encourages hoards oftravellers and holiday makers in the warmer seasons seeking sun, sand,and surf.
Activities are abundant in the area with water sports being the most popular. There are several good surf breaks as well as good windsurfing,yachting and diving conditions. A river cruise is a good way to spendthe afternoon, with many companies offering river cruises up the Hastingsand into the Everglades. On dry land, there are a number of wildlife parks in the area which specialise in koalas and other endangered species. There's also an excellent flora and fauna reserve which protects a 30 hectare pocket of coastal rainforest.
Following the Hastings River twenty kilometres inland from Port Macquarie in the old town of Wauchope. A major and accurate re-creationof a late 1800's Australian timber town has put Wauchope (pronouncedwar hope) on the tourist map. This working replica aptly named Timbertown, is an interesting display of colonial times complete withshops and art and craft outlets. On a smaller scale, there are other attractions throughout the district which follow in the same historical flavour.
Back on the main highway and further north is Kempsey. Situated in theMacleay Valley, Kempsey is a commercial centre serving the farms andcoastal villages in the region. The biggest coastal village is SouthWest Rocks, a pleasant resort town whose great climate and scenicbeach setting was only known to the locals until the seventies. Stilluncommercialised, the stretches of calm ocean and sand can be enjoyedwithout a high-rise in sight. Nearby, there are other sheltered beachesand coves, the historical sites of Trial Bay Gaol and Smoky Cape Lighthouse, as well as Hat Head National Park, a coastal parkwith magnificent sand dunes and unspoiled beaches.
