A wildlife haven, a natural paradise ... much has been written about the beauty and serenity of Greater Port Macquarie. But for some families, it’s not enough to wander along a deserted beach or pat a koala – they need an adrenaline rush! From go-karting and micro-lighting to abseiling and watersports, it’s all there in this much-loved NSW destination – so let’s revisit it with new escapades in mind.
 Surf’s up!
With some of the most beautiful beaches of the NSW coast, there’s no better place to learn to surf than Port Macquarie. Learn to surf lessons by father and son team, "the Huddos", are held daily at beaches throughout Port Macquarie, with all equipment provided and free transport to the surf break. All ages are welcome, from beginners through to advanced. www.portmacquariesurfschool.com.au
Dance of the dromaderies
Some may not consider a camel ride a high-octane thrill – but for others, being up high in the saddle, meandering along a deserted beach with the pound of the surf accompanying you, is an unforgettable experience. Camel rides are available every day on Lighthouse Beach – just turn up and enjoy the ride. www.portmacquariecamels.com.au
 Start your engines!
Step behind the wheel of a go-kart and blast around the track for a real adrenaline rush. With 13 corners on an eight-metre wide circuit, Adrenalin Rush Karting is one of Australia’s fastest, yet safest tracks and is sure to be on your child’s wish list – daredevils or not. Full-face helmets and suits are supplied, and drivers must wear closed-in footwear. www.arkkarting.hastingsscbd.com.au
High speed fun
New to the Port Macquarie waterways, PortJet offers one of Australia’s fastest, most luxurious jet-boat rides. Hitting speeds of 80km/h, the 23-seater boat skims along the Hastings River where you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins, or out to sea on an Ocean Beaches or Whale Watching ride (May-November). www.portjet.com.au
 Learn to ski
Waterskiing is great fun for all ages, and kids tend to pick it up much easier than adults. The Stony Park Watersports and Recreation Centre is the ultimate skiers’ and wake boarders’ paradise, boasting two man-made lakes, fully equipped with slalom courses, jumps, slider and kicker ramps. Children of all ages can learn to ski, or if they want to be eased into the fun, they can potter around in a canoe or be pulled behind a high-speed boat on a tube ride. www.stoneypark.com.au
Highway Blast
The newest rush from Coast and Country Trike Tours, the Highway Blast is a thrilling ride on the back of a V Twin Harley Davidson which cruises along the highway to beautiful Lake Cathie then back to Port Macquarie in 40 minutes. Kids are welcome to join in the ‘wind-in-your-face’ fun, and helmets are supplied. www.cctriketours.com.au | 
