Scott Flinders' scuffed clearance sent Luke Young bearing down on goal, but the Macclesfield goalkeeper recovered in time to spare his own blushes.
Kingsley James put the visitors in front in the 35th minute, converting Danny Whitaker's corner to notch his fourth goal of the season.
But McGinty did likewise for the hosts five minutes after the break to level.
The draw keeps Torquay remain four points clear of the drop zone, while Macclesfield stay in ninth place.
Report supplied by the Press Association
Match ends, Torquay United 1, Macclesfield Town 1.
Second Half ends, Torquay United 1, Macclesfield Town 1.
Substitution, Torquay United. Ruairi Keating replaces Brett Williams.
Substitution, Torquay United. Aman Verma replaces Damon Lathrope.
Substitution, Torquay United. Jamie Reid replaces Luke Young.
Goal!  Torquay United 1, Macclesfield Town 1. Sean McGinty (Torquay United).
Second Half begins Torquay United 0, Macclesfield Town 1.
First Half ends, Torquay United 0, Macclesfield Town 1.
Goal!  Torquay United 0, Macclesfield Town 1. Kingsley James (Macclesfield Town).
First Half begins.
Lineups are announced and players are warming up.
Sean McGinty's goal helped Torquay salvaged a draw with Macclesfield at Plainmoor to stay clear of the relegation zone.