At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Get acquainted with a friendly surf town on the North Coast of New South Wales. Featuring sublime beaches, banana plantations, fun family attractions, national parks, islands, and more. Oozing with laid-back vibes, this part of Australia is an ideal destination for holidaymakers.
Welcome to Coffs Harbour
Coffs has a semi-tropical climate and is located 540 kilometres north of Sydney. It is a popular holiday destination for locals along the Pacific Highway. It is the only place in Australia where the Great Dividing Range meets the Pacific Ocean. Coffs Harbour is known for its spectacular coastline, where many surfing competitions are held.
The place is named after Captain John Korff, who was forced to take shelter from a storm in 1847. A civil servant registered the place in 1861, accidentally misspelling the name. Coffs Harbour has a prosperous banana industry in the hinterland and you can find several banana plantations in the region.
Beaches
If you are searching for a beach holiday, Coffs is a perfect destination. With beautiful uncrowded beaches and world-class surfing, it is an ideal place to experience the outdoor Aussie beach lifestyle. Feeling adventurous? Learn how to surf with a local guide. If you are searching for a family-friendly beach, go to Digger's Beach.
Here are some of the best beaches on the Coffs Coast:
- Jetty Beach
- Woolgoolga Beach and Headland
- Sapphire Beach
- Diggers Beach
- Park Beach
- Moonee Beach
- Emerald Beach
- Arrawarra Headland
- Sawtell Beach
Exploring Muttonbird Island is one of my favourite things to do in Coffs Harbour. Take a stroll along the breakwall at Coffs Harbour Marina to find this gem. It's worth it.
Michael, TraveEssence customer
Top things to do and attractions
As well as the beach, Coffs Harbour is bursting with many attractions to keep the kids entertained. Learn about the oldest culture in the world at The Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Marvel at the butterflies at the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House and for the chocolate lovers, visit the Carabana Factory.
Meet local growers at the Harbourside Markets or soak up the laid-back vibes at the Bellingen Markets. Visit the Twilight Food Market and be sure to bring a blanket and a bottle of wine. Sit back and enjoy the warm and friendly vibes!
Feeling active? The Solitary Islands Coastal Walk is a 60-kilometre stretch between Sawtell in the south to Red Rock on the northern beaches. Conquer a hike in one of the national parks, visit Forest Sky Pier or soak up the view at Sealy Lookout.
The Jetty
The Coffs Harbour Marina and Jetty area is a must-visit during your time in this part of NSW. Within the area, you will find a range of cafes and restaurants by the shore. Take a wander along the Coffs Harbour International Marina to Muttonbird Island and soak up the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. From here, you can also take a boat trip out to Solitary Islands Marine Park and spot frolicking dolphins.
The Big Banana
Along the Pacific Highway, you will see one of Australia's iconic big things, 'The Big Banana'. The Big Banana Fun Park is family-friendly and filled with many attractions to keep the kids busy. Here, you can learn more about the process of growing bananas, play mini-golf or take a ride on the biggest indoor giant slide in the country!
Dorrigo National Park
For a great day out in the Coffs Coast area, go to Dorrigo National Park. Located approximately one hour drive from Coffs Harbour. Discover a collection of waterfalls and rainforest walks within a World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest. Go birdwatching, enjoy a picnic or spark up the barbecue at the Skywalk Lookout. The best time to visit is during the seasons of spring and summer.
Muttonbird Island
Do you enjoy bird watching? Take a walk to Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve and enjoy the incredible views along the way. To learn about the Aboriginal cultural significance, take an award-winning guided tour together with local Gumbaynggirr rangers. If you would like to admire spectacular views of the Solitary Islands, go to the Eastern Lookout. Muttonbird Island is a must-do during your visit to Coffs Coast.
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Discover a world beyond ordinary
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 9am until 6pm. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.