Category: Local Guides

For families seeking an idyllic day trip escape, the picturesque Coffs Coast offers stunning locations for your next family-friendly picnic..

Whether you prefer pristine beaches, lush greenery, or azure waterways, our natural wonders are waiting to be admired and explored. And for those keen to adventure beyond the picnic blanket, these destinations also offer fun, eco-friendly experiences perfect for reconnecting with loved ones.

Happy picnicking!

Coffs Harbour picnic spots: Hoss Beach (South Breakwall) and Park Beach Reserve

Hoss Beach (South Breakwall), Coffs Harbour

At the southern end of Coffs Harbour’s bustling Jetty Foreshores, an underrated gem provides a unique location for your next seaside picnic. Located next to Corambirra Point at the start of the South Breakwall, the grassy area above Hoss Beach makes for an excellent spot to watch the sun go down. With Muttonbird Island, Jetty Beach, Coffs Harbour Marina, and distant mountains as a backdrop, this certainly is one panoramic picnic spot.

Why we love it: Adjacent to Hoss Beach, a smooth concrete path runs right out to the end of South Breakwall and is perfect for roller skating, skateboarding, bike riding or walking. It’s also a great spot to treat the fur family to a lovely walk for a unique Coffs Harbour Jetty perspective.

What to pack: Aside from exploring nature on wheels, Gallows Beach is only a stone’s throw away and a popular surfing spot protected from N/NE winds. You should bring a surfboard, swimmers and a towel!

Best times to visit: With limited shelters and little shade, Hoss Beach near South Breakwall is a better location for a late afternoon or evening picnic. It is also one of the only spots on the Coffs Coast to picnic with a golden sunset reflecting on the water.

Take me there

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Park Beach Reserve, Coffs Harbour

Only a few minutes’ drive from Coffs Harbour CBD is Park Beach Reserve, a sprawling parkland overlooking the mouth of Coffs Creek. This pristine and relaxing location invites families large and small to enjoy a day of relaxation and connection. With multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, and sprawling grassy expanses below magnificent Norfolk Pines, Park Beach Reserve offers endless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and places to enjoy your fish and chips.

Why we love this spot: Picnics are so much better when they can extend all afternoon, and this spot is the perfect location for it. From creek swimming, excellent kids’ play equipment, loads of parking, BBQ facilities, accessible toilets, great fishing, a nearby dog beach, and a patrolled beach with the famous Surf Club Coffs Restaurant and Bar next door, there is something for everyone.

What to pack: Grab some lawn games, a tennis ball and a cricket bat, and gather a group of chosen or extended family for an action-packed afternoon of free fun. We also suggest bringing your swimmers and towel, as it is hard to resist a dip in the crystal clear waters when the tide is right.

Best times to visit: As Park Beach Reserve is popular with locals and tourists alike, it is often busier on weekends and school holidays during summer. Try visiting outside of these times if you want more of it. The Coffs Creek is also tidal, so check the latest tide information at WillyWeather to ensure you plan for your visit.

Take me there

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Coffs Coast southern beaches picnic spots: Boronia Park, Sawtell and Boambee Creek Reserve

Boronia Park, Sawtell

A short walk from the charming town of Sawtell, Boronia Park offers a relaxed, coastal setting for families of all shapes and sizes to unwind and get closer to nature. Nestled between Sawtell Beach and the mouth of Bonville Creek, this park features ample grassy spaces for picnics and is equipped with BBQ facilities, picnic tables and an undercover shelter. As you indulge in your leisurely picnic, the young at heart can explore the playgrounds, swim in the creek or explore the nearby Bonville Headland, fostering a sense of adventure and discovery.

Why we love it: With sensational views over Bonville Creek, Sawtell’s Boronia Park is one of the most scenic spots to picnic on the Coffs Coast. With plenty of parking, accessible toilets and no hilly terrain to lug an esky, it is also the perfect choice for families of all ages. And for those who prefer not to self-cater, Sawtell’s First Avenue is only minutes away and has a stack of great food options for picnics.

What to pack: Nearby Sailors Bay and Main Beach offer ample surfing and swimming, so remember the surfboards, swimmers and a towel!

Best times to visit: With lots of shade, Boronia Park is perfect for any time of day. However, this popular spot does get quite busy on weekends and public holidays.

Take me there

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Boambee Creek Reserve

Boambee Creek Reserve is where the sparkling, turquoise waters meet golden sands and lush mangroves. The reserve is perfect for young children to wade, as the waters are still and shallow. There are also plenty of places to swim and build sandcastles.

As part of Reflections Holiday Parks, Boambee Creek Reserve has seven bookable shelters with BBQs, shaded seating, and stunning water views. Don’t stress if you can’t get a shelter. There are ample shaded spaces for spreading a picnic blanket, plus a great kiosk that serves snacks and coffee all day to help you keep up with the kids. This pet-friendly destination also invites four-legged friends to join the fun, ensuring every family member feels included in the adventure.

Why we love it: The ideal place to spend an entire day, there is so much to do at Boambee Creek Reserve. Discover the eco-rich system that thrives at Boambee Creek by renting a stand-up paddle board or kayak through Eco-Certified
C-Change Adventures. Perfect for the whole family, they also run eco-tours, a great way to learn about this incredible natural environment.

What to pack: Bring (or hire) a SUP, kayak or fishing rod, and immerse yourself in nature’s playground.

Best times to visit: Boambee Creek Reserve is open seven days, 8am – 9pm. Access can be gained from Sawtell Road by driving to the reserve boom gate ($6 card-only fee) or for free by walking down from the Boambee Creek Upper Carpark. Naturally, the reserve can get very busy on weekends and school holidays during the summer months, so if you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting outside these times. The reserve is also tidal, so check the latest tide information at WillyWeather to ensure you plan for your visit.

Take me there

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Coffs Coast northern beaches picnic spots: Sapphire Beach Playground and Moonee Beach Reserve

North Sapphire Beach Playground, North Sapphire

Nestled along the pristine shores of Sapphire Beach, North Sapphire Beach Playground beckons picnickers of all ages with its excellent, family-friendly amenities. Create cherished memories as you gather for leisurely long lunches amidst the expansive grassy areas and surrounding coastal bushland. Afterwards, grab a coffee from Stef Beachstone and let the children delight in the epic playground, complete with a flying fox and sandy play areas.

Why we love this spot: For a summertime day trip with the entire crew, this safe and scenic picnic spot has plenty of shade and shelter and excellent and accessible amenities. As the day unfolds, walk a few steps down to Sapphire Beach and watch for playful dolphins frolicking in the surf. For a more adventurous activity, the 7.1km coastal loop trail allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscape, including views out to Split Solitary Island.

What to pack: As North Sapphire Beach Playground is the perfect base for outdoor activities, bring plenty of protective sun exposure gear as you play a round of beach volleyball, embark on a hike, or jump in the ocean.

Best times to visit: This family-friendly destination can be visited anytime and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and shaded recreational opportunities.

Take me there

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Moonee Beach Reserve

Overlooking a unique estuary system that converges between Moonee Creek and Moonee Beach, Moonee Beach Reserve welcomes visitors to a shaded, pet-friendly haven. If you’re looking for a waterside escape, settle in for a tranquil picnic by the creek’s gentle lull, setting the tone for a peaceful and relaxing day in nature. The reserve offers excellent amenities, including picnic shelters, barbecues, playgrounds, and even beach showers, ensuring families have everything they need for a memorable outing.

Why we love this spot: After your picnic lunch settles, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Moonee Creek Nature Reserve by wading through the surrounding waters and sand flats to Moonee Beach. Alternatively, you can cast a line for fishing, surf with locals, or embark on the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, which can extend your family-friendly picnic experience.

Part of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, the landscape and waters of Moonee Creek are also a cherished area for the Gumbaynggirr people. Eco-certified Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours offers eco-friendly excursions, including paddleboard and kayak tours, providing insights into the area’s rich cultural and ecological significance. As stories are shared, the landscape evolves, transitioning from dense mangrove forests to clusters of melaleuca trees and towering eucalypts.

What to pack: We highly recommend trying to bring your kayak or SUP, as adventure enthusiasts love to explore this beautiful creek system by paddle. Some binoculars may help you spot magnificent sea eagles, ospreys, brahminy kites soaring overhead, or even passing whales out to sea during migration seasons.

Best times to visit: While picnicking under the plentiful shaded areas is always possible, if you love to paddle, navigating through the estuary requires careful consideration of the tides. Plan your paddle to align with the optimal tide conditions.

Take me there

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Orara Valley Picnic Spots: Coramba Bridge and Scouts Falls

Coramba Bridge PArk, Orara River

As you make your way to Coramba Bridge Park, the tranquillity of the Orara River beckons, inviting you to unwind amidst the picturesque surroundings. Here, locals and travellers gather to picnic in the serene ambience, taking refuge under the cool shade of towering trees lining the riverbanks.

Easily accessible from the heart of Coramba, this local favourite is also a refreshing spot on the Orara River for a swim. Easing into the gentle rapids, you’ll find yourself calm as the soothing, crystal-clear waters cascade into deeper pools, a perfect respite from the summer heat. The nearby Coramba Nature Reserve is a must if you love rainforest walks. Located only a few minutes from Coramba, the loop walk will take you through a protected forest filled with abundant bird life.

Why we love this spot: Paddling from Hartley’s Bridge is an excellent alternative to driving to Coramba Bridge Park. This scenic journey offers easy access and gentle currents (Grade 1), making it suitable for families of all ages. This kayaking journey will meander for 45 minutes through pristine countryside and picturesque farmland, immersing in nature’s splendour. En route, several spots nestled along the riverbanks offer an idyllic setting to enjoy your delicious picnic, or you can wait until you reach the tranquil surroundings at Coramba Bridge Park.

What to pack: Unlike some of its coastal counterparts, the Coramba Bridge Park park does not have flashy facilities such as covered shelters, BBQs, and play equipment, but it makes up for natural beauty. It’s just a few moments’ walk from Coramba, where you can stock up on supplies, drinks, or extra food from its dog-friendly pub, The Coramba Hotel.

Best times to visit: Just 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour, the town of Coramba can feel like a world away, even on weekends. If you’re lucky enough to visit when the quarterly Coramba Village Market is on, stock up on various locally made assortments to complete your picnic hamper.

Take me there

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Scouts Falls, Sherwood Nature Reserve

Nestled within the serene Sherwood Nature Reserve, Scouts Falls offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts keen to picnic away from the hustle and bustle of town. Amidst the reserve’s lush bushland, the melodic sounds of the creek create a serene ambience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the Australian wilderness. For the more adventurous, go up the creek to the cascading falls and swimming holes below, discovering hidden treasures and native wildlife.

Why we love this spot: Scouts Falls also provides opportunities for bushwalking and birdwatching, allowing visitors to connect with the natural environment and appreciate its ecological significance. The reserve’s tranquil atmosphere and pristine surroundings make it an ideal destination for quiet reflection and rejuvenation.

What to pack: If you plan to do the 30-minute walk up the creek to Scouts Falls, we recommend packing a first aid kit and some good hiking boots/shoes. Make sure you bring a bag for rubbish, leaving only footprints behind.

Best times to visit: Scouts Falls is beautiful at any time during the day, as picnickers can gather in shaded areas surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees and verdant ferns, enjoying a leisurely meal amidst nature’s embrace.

Take me there

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Explore the thrills, culture, and serenity of surfing on this plentiful coastline.

With over 30 incredible beaches dotted over 80 km of coastline, the Coffs Coast in New South Wales is on track to become the next surfer’s paradise. Nestled just a couple of hours’ drive south of its more crowded counterparts, the Coffs Coast is an underrated coastal gem, and one of the remaining places on the mid-north coast where you can (often) get a wave to yourself. No matter the season, it is beginning to beckon surf enthusiasts worldwide, serving up a tapestry of year-round breaks, a rich marine ecosystem, and a vibrant surfing culture in and out of the water.

Join us as we unpack our quiver and uncover the very best of surfing on the Coffs Coast.

Coffs Coast’s Southern Beaches–
Bonville Headland to Sawtell’s Main Beach and Island

Bonville Headland: a south-facing haven for nature and surfing

For post-surf hangs mixed with picturesque views over an ocean bath perfect for the groms, the south-facing Bonville Headland or ‘Southies’, is where both surfing culture and nature come alive. Gateway to the beautiful Bongil Bongil National Park, Southies is also where the Bonville creek meets the sea. Depending on the season, Southies delivers a mix of super-fun conditions. Here you can experience point-break style lefts, peaky beach breaks, or a sucking wedge.

After an epic day of surfing, there’s no need to rush off. Grab your crew and find a spot on the grassy headland to spread a picnic blanket and watch the sunset over the Bonville Creek estuary. Pack some beers and order a famous Southies Wood Fire Pizza made fresh on the headland.

Best time to surf: While being a year-round surf destination, Southies see more crowds during the summer months due to protection from the northerly winds with smaller, more manageable waves.

Tidal considerations: Surfers at Southies often find that low to mid-tide provides optimal conditions. The rising tide contributes to well-shaped waves, creating an enjoyable surfing environment for all levels.

Skill level: Due to its exposure to larger winter and spring swells, Southies is generally more suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. That said, intermediate surfers can still find opportunities to get out for a paddle during the milder conditions of summer and autumn.

Amenities: Showers, toilets, and free parking.

Local tip: Exercise caution around the sharp, steep jump-off rocks, and like anywhere, beware of sharks!

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Sawtell Main Beach and Sawtell Island: a blissed-out, seaside sojourn

Cruising around the charming village of Sawtell, it’s hard to believe we’re only 10 minutes south of Coffs Harbour. With its giant fig trees and heritage-listed buildings, this relaxed seaside town is the perfect place to base yourself when exploring Coffs Coast’s southern beaches. The best part is that Sawtell backs right onto the dunes and has waves that will appeal to anyone keen to get out for a bash.

A stone’s throw from town, Sawtell Main Beach, or ‘Main’, showcases its versatility in various conditions. This popular spot delivers everything from long, barrelling sections to short left or right peaks. But like most breach breaks, it’s dictated by the ever-changing banks and swell directions. Main also provides the added security of being a patrolled beach, making it an excellent choice for surfers seeking a safer environment.

At the southern end of Sawtell Main, Sawtell ‘Island’ thrives in autumn or winter when the wind is southerly or offshore. This location generally boasts longer point-style right-handers and occasional wrapping sections that are ideal launch points. Paddling out near the Island is often the most convenient approach for surfers.

Best time to surf: Sawtell offers surfers year-round rides but will generally work best in north-west to southerly winds, or with an east to-southeast swell.

Tidal Considerations: Timing your surf session with mid to high tide enhances the quality of waves. The rising tide often contributes to better-shaped waves, providing surfers a more enjoyable experience.

Skill level:  Beginners may find the smaller waves during summer and autumn ideal for learning, while more advanced surfers can enjoy larger swells in winter and spring. Surf schools such as Solitary Islands Surf School operate all year round and offer learners a supportive environment in which to build their skills.

Seasonal insights and locals tip: In summer, pack a funboard for the smaller waves, and at this time, the Island can often be a better choice for learners. Bring a performance shortboard to tackle the larger and more powerful southerly swells in winter. Check the online surf reports for sandbar conditions, which impact wave quality.

Amenities: Showers, toilets, free parking.

Beyond the beach: Sawtell’s First Avenue is bursting with character and offers alfresco dining at some of Coffs Coast’s best cafes and restaurants. Located at the Surf Club with views over Sawtell Main Beach, The Kiosk Sawtell offers an all-day brunch and lunch menu, while the family-friendly The Sawtell Hotel serves up fresh, seasonal food in a relaxed, recently renovated setting. For a fun night, check out Morty’s Joint for mouth-watering fried chicken and burgers, pool tables, live music and loads of local craft beers.

While in the area, explore the tranquil havens of Boambee and Bonville creeks, offering a serene setting for a relaxed swim or BBQ with the family. Be sure to say g’day to Matt from Eco-Cerified C-Change Adventures, who rents stand-up paddleboards and runs eco-tours, the perfect way to immerse yourself in the eco-rich systems of these beautiful creeks.

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Coffs Harbour’s ‘place of plenty’ – Surfing Park Beach, Macaulay’s Headland and Diggers Beach

Park Beach Coffs Harbour: let the good times roll

Conveniently located with proximity to camping, hotel and motel accommodations, cafes, restaurants, and shopping, Park Beach (known to locals as ‘Parkies’) provides surfers with an authentic and fun coastal experience.

Close to where Coffs Creek meets the sea, Parkies is an exposed beach break, offering consistent and versatile conditions, with waves forming from both local wind swells and distant groundswells. The beach break accommodates peaky left and rights, though increased surf often attracts crowds.

Parkies is Coffs Harbour’s main surf spot and is patrolled daily by the Coffs Harbour Lifeguards during most of the summer, ensuring safety for beachgoers.

Best Time to Surf: Parkies is a year-round surfing destination, offering a variety of conditions throughout the seasons. Optimal wave opportunities arise during the autumn and winter, thriving under offshore winds from the west and providing partial shelter from south winds. When the northeast winds are up, bring a funboard for the smaller waves at the north end of Parkies (Macauley’s).

Tidal Considerations: Surfing at mid to high tide is often preferable at Park Beach. The rising tide contributes to well-shaped waves, enhancing the overall surfing experience.

Skill level: Parkies is pretty versatile and even suitable for learners – especially during the milder conditions of summer. Here, beginners can take advantage of smaller waves at the beach’s northern end, creating a welcoming environment for skill development.

Seasonal insights and local tip: Opt for surfing further south towards the Park Beach Surf Club for a more relaxed experience away from the autumn or winter crowds. Watch out for strong rips, especially near the creek mouth.

Amenities: Barbecues, picnic tables, children’s play areas, shady trees, toilets and free parking.

Beyond the beach: Situated by the Surf Club car park, Park Beach Reserve rests along the shores of Coffs Creek, offering a beloved family destination equipped with barbecues, picnic tables, children’s play areas, shaded spots, and restroom facilities. For a post-surf feast with the crew at Donovan’s Surf Club Restaurant & Bar offers panoramic oceanfront views over Parkies. But for a date with Bae, drive over to see the deadset legends at Old John’s Cafe, the go-to for tasty sangas and shakes, incredible coffee, must-try macadamia toast or even a poke bowl. And as the sun sets, you would be mad to pass up a session at the iconic Hoey Moey. Nestled next to Park Beach, indulge in fantastic pub food, quench your thirst with ice-cold bevvy’s, and groove to live music in Coffs Coast’s ONLY beach beer garden.

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Macauleys Headland Coffs Harbour: Coffs Coast’s surf drive-in

Positioned at the northern end of Park Beach, the iconic Macauleys Headland is one of the most popular places to surf on the Coffs Coast. Visiting here you can easily see why, as this local favourite features a mix of break breaks, accompanied by a famous left-hand point break that cranks when it’s working. It’s so fun to watch, as many do from their cars!

The abundance of natural beauty at Macauleys is undeniable. Its rocky coastline blends into a verdant grassy headland, creating a breathtaking view in and out of the azure water that greets it. Walking over the headland to Diggers Beach, wildlife enthusiasts can spot resident black cockatoos, white-bellied eagles, dolphins, and at certain times of the year, migrating humpback whales.

Best Time to Surf: Best experienced with northwest wind, this exposed point break welcomes waves year-round, with autumn and winter being optimum for surf conditions. Regarding swell, Mccauley’s receives a mix of groundswells and wind swells but favours a northeast to southeast directions.

Tidal Considerations and Skill Level: Macauley’s is surfable at all tide stages and almost always guarantees surfers of all skill levels a fun session, no matter the time of day (or year).

Amenities: Toilets, showers and free parking.

Local tip: If surfing here, beware of rocks, rock launches, and other surfers. With care, surfers can use the fast-moving rip that runs out along the headland.

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Diggers Beach: Where the mountains meet the sea

As any well-travelled surfer knows, vibes are high when paddling out at an outstandingly beautiful break. Dubbed by locals as Coffs Coast’s most visually stunning, Diggers Beach, or ‘Diggers’, is a beach break with some of the most diverse mix of nature and surfing offered in one spot.

This particular beach certainly has a magnetic allure, so be prepared to share the stoke with fellow surf enthusiasts seeking the perfect ride. But sharing is not always a bad thing, for it is in the friendly embrace of Diggers that camaraderie thrives, adding a layer of community to your surfing saga that you won’t find anywhere else on the Coffs Coast.

Skill level: Depending on swell and weather conditions, Diggers serves up an array of wave diversity, appealing to both a beginner and an advanced surfer. When I learned to surf here, the assurance of lifeguards and surf schools that frequent Diggers took the edge off! Be sure to consult the City’s website for patrol times.

Best Time to Surf: Optimal conditions prevail with offshore winds from the southwest, providing a natural shield against a potential blowout. Diggers thrives on the power of groundswells, with the perfect swell direction emerging from the southeast. However, when north-easterly, the swell often results in consistent beach breaks. At this time, surfers can explore various peaks along the shoreline, finding a suitable wave regardless of skill level.

Tidal Considerations: Ride the waves at Diggers at mid to high stage – the beach break offers a canvas for exploration, with good surf opportunities unfolding at all stages of the tide.

Amenities: Barbecues, shelters, children’s play areas, toilets, showers and free parking.

Seasonal insights and local tip: The north end is usually bigger and more rippy, whereas the south end is smaller and more suitable for beginners. Use the rip in the south corner for an easy place to paddle out if you lack experience. If you do, bring a buddy!

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Northern Beaches – Woolgoolga to Arrawarra Headland

Woolgoolga Beach: The small surf town with a big heart

A short 25km drive north of Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga is a laid-back coastal surf town popular with families and backpackers. Affectionately known by its friendly locals as ‘Woopi’, it’s an excellent base for a year-round surfing holiday as there is so much to see and do. Aside from offering surfers two great options at its Main Beach and Back Beach, there’s also a stack of great cafes, bars and restaurants, banks and shops, holiday parks and luxurious beachfront accommodations. Woopi does have it all.

Best time to surf: Known for its relatively consistent surf, Woolooga offers both exposed beach and reef breaks that have varying conditions across the seasons, so year-round surfing is almost always possible here. Optimal surf conditions are when an east-southeast swell aligns with offshore winds blowing from the west-northwest. 

Tidal considerations: Surfing at mid to high tide is often preferable at Woolgoolga Main Beach and Back Beach. The incoming tide helps improve the shape of waves, making your rides more manageable and fun.

Seasonal insights and skill level: Both beaches are perfect for learners, especially during the milder summer conditions. Autumn and spring present a mix of conditions suitable for surfers of all levels. Winter welcomes larger swells, offering a challenge for advanced riders.

Amenities: Barbecues, picnic tables, children’s play areas, shady trees, toilets, showers and free parking.

Local tip: Woolgoolga Back Beach is often less crowded, regardless of the season. Reasonably protected by the headland, head there early for a more secluded surfing experience, especially during the warmer months when the wind blows in from the northeast.

Beyond the beach: After a delicious Bluebottle Brasserie breakfast, walking around the headland at Woolgoolga provides a prime vantage point for witnessing migrating Humpback Whales between May and November. And just 4 km inland, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Woolgoolga Picnic Area offer a 2km riverside walk through subtropical rainforest to a breathtaking waterfall, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching. At the end of a fun day, unwind with a beer at the Seaview Tavern or Woolgoolga Brewing Co, both of which are local favourites.

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Arrawarra Headland: A love affair with longboarders

Nestled a bit further north along the Coffs Coast, Arrawarra Beach is renowned for its thrilling right-hand point break over a sandy bottom, with waves breaking for up to 100 metres, providing longboarders or performance riders with ample opportunities for impressive carves and hacks.

You can see waves between 4-8 ft when the point comes alive. A longboard is recommended on smaller days, while a shortboard proves ideal when the swell size increases.

Best time to surf and tide considerations: With a mix of ground and wind swells, Arrawarra is a point break that works well in offshore winds from the south-southwest to west directions.. The best conditions are when the winds are offshore and a nice swell rolls in from the east. Mid tides are preferable.

Seasonal insights and skill level: The prime season for surfing Arrawarra is in autumn, characterised by consistent, clean waves with light/offshore winds, especially in April. Surfable waves prevail this month, but the wind can still affect the breaks. Suited for intermediate and advanced surfers, Arrawarra consistently delivers quality waves but can also get crowded on weekends. Occasionally, it may be too small for experienced surfers, but it will make it suitable for beginners and groms.

Amenities: Showers, toilets, free parking.

Local tip: While the surf may draw a crowd during prime conditions, surfers should exercise caution around rocks, be mindful of sharks, and respect the local surfing community

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Unlocking your Coffs Coast surfing experience

Navigating the Seasons: summer bliss to winter challenges

As the seasons change, so do the surfing conditions on the Coffs Coast. Summer generally brings smaller waves with northerly winds, so get out early in the day for a better surf. Autumn and winter bring larger groundswells, providing a challenge for advanced riders. Talk with the locals who know the waves intimately for the best insights.

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Embracing the surfing lifestyle: community, events, and competitions

The Coffs Coast boasts a vibrant surfing culture, celebrated by events like The Barney Miller Surf Classic, Billabong Oz Grom Cup, and local board rider club competitions. This region has nurtured homegrown talents like Harley Ingleby, Shaun Cansdell, Dael Wuff and World professional surfer Lee Winkler. Engage with the local surf community, attend surf festivals, and witness the passion that defines the Coffs Coast’s surfing scene, which is thriving, inclusive and supportive

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Surf Schools, shops, and gear recommendations

For those eager to learn or improve their skills, surf schools like Solitary Islands Surf School and East Coast Surf School offer expert guidance across multiple locations. Lee Winkler runs his famous Lee Winklers Surf School which offers 1-on-1 performance coaching, group lessons as well as surf camps. Explore local surf shops like Coopers Surf Australia and XS Surf for quality gear and ‘try before you buy’ board rentals. Friendly staff and a wealth of local knowledge make these establishments essential for any surfing adventure.

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Discovering the Solitary Islands Marine Park – A Surfer’s Eden

As New South Wales’ first ECO Destination, the Coffs Coast takes pride in its commitment to environmental conservation. So unlocking a positive Coffs Coast surfing experience will naturally start with an understanding and respect of its underwater world – the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Surfing here is unlike anywhere in the world. Expect tropical and temperate mixing, where the warm waters of the East Australian Current meet with cool, nutrient-rich currents from the south that rise from the deep. And because of this rare convergence, an abundance of marine life calls this sanctuary home.

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Surfing safely and responsibly

Always check surf and weather reports online at Swellnet and Willieweather, adhere to local regulations, and respect the environment. Wear appropriate gear, know your limits, and consider hiring a local instructor if you’re new to the area. Surf with a sense of responsibility, respect the locals, and leave only footprints on the pristine shores

Photography Credit: Ignacio Martinez – a passionate, local surf photographer inspired by the healing nature of the ocean. Follow his socials for even more tips and to purchase his beautiful limited-edition prints: @seamplicity.co & Matt Evans – Naturally Creative

Discover active adventures in nature

A biodiversity hotspot and the first ECO destination in NSW, the Coffs Coast region offers plenty of choice for a family bushwalk at any time of year. 

Hike to a waterfall, climb to a lookout, and skip along the coastal track with the sun on your back and a cooling ocean breeze. Take your dog, push a pram, or walk along a wide track while the kids scoot or cycle beside you. Pack a picnic, shoulder your fishing rod, or carry your camera for snapping family pics. 

Short or long, coastal, creek, rainforest or mountain, we’ve listed our favourite local bushwalks. Challenge yourself to do them all!

REMEMBER: Many of these walks are located in environmentally sensitive ecosystems. Please make sure you stick to marked paths, take all rubbish away with you, and time your toilet breaks for town. In some locations we recommend using reef-safe sunscreen only, and limiting the use of insect repellant… no insects means no food for frogs!

Secrets of Red Rock river

Two walks for the price of one at Red Rock! From the boat ramp, follow the boardwalk beside the river, through mangroves, salt-marsh and paperbarks beside Corindi River. You are sure to see pelicans and might spot a green turtle. The highlight is a secret tribe of gnomes, fairies, and elves sheltering in the hollow of a large tree. 
Jewfish Point on the river is a special Gumbaynggirr gathering place, but Red Rock has a tragic past. A plaque on the headland path allows for a moment of reflection. There is a lookout platform, otherwise, supervise kids as the cliffs are unfenced. Down on the beach, admire the tortured folds and faults in the ancient jasper rock. 
Pack a picnic, or get an ice cream or coffee at the general store, and relax while the kids play in the playground or on Little Beach. 

Walk info: easy to medium grade, cafes and picnic areas nearby
Did you know?  Learn more about Gumbaynggirr culture at Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre and sample some bush tucker tour, or take a SUP river tour with Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours.

View AllTrails map of Red Rock River and Headland

Rainforest immersion at Bruxner Park Flora Reserve

For the best walks close to Coffs Harbour, drive up Bruxner Park Road to The Gap. Park at the information sign to explore this beautiful rainforest. The track to your left, and Bruxner Park Road, were originally a tramway taking timber to the sawmill and jetty.
Allow an hour for a leisurely stroll on the Rainforest Loop and Bangalow Track, crossing pretty Bucca Bucca Creek. You’ll see tall tallowwood, groves of Bangalow palms, and buttressed yellow carabeen. In spring, look for the purple fruit of the Rusty Plum underfoot. 
Got some restive teenagers needing a tougher adventure? Follow the signposts on Bangalow Track for a leg-pumping climb up Midway Track and on to Sealy Lookout. 

Walk info: Easy (medium for Bangalow track), dogs welcome on leash, cafe at Sealy Lookout.
Did you know? Bruxner Park Road continues past the picnic area at Swans Road to Mount Coramba, once busy with diggers seeking gold, now popular with extreme downhill mountain bikers.

View AllTrails map of Bruxner Park Rainforest Walk

Goannas galore on the Gumgali Track

For younger kids, the easy Gumgali Track celebrating the black goanna begins on the road to Sealy Lookout near Treetops Adventure Park. 
How many goanna artworks can you find along the walk? Perhaps you’ll spot a koala? The track ends at Korora Lookout, with a sweeping panorama north to the Solitary Islands. A soundbar allows you to listen to stories in Gumbaynggirr language.
The cantilevered Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout (Niigi Niigi), high in Orara East State Forest, offers an expansive view of Coffs Harbour and south, on a clear day, to Smoky Cape. There is a shady picnic area, and an excellent café for a post-walk reward. 

Walk info: easy to medium grade, dogs welcome on leash, cafe at Sealy Lookout
Did you know?  Sign up for the award-winning Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience for stories, dance, and damper on Gumgali Track.

View AllTrail maps of Gumgali Track

Picnic at Woolgoolga Creek Falls

Everyone loves a waterfall! Pack a picnic and allow a couple of hours to enjoy this wide trail through the subtropical rainforest to Woolgoolga Creek Fall. 
Kids of all ages will love hopping from rock to rock or splashing across the shallow creek crossings. Budding botanists can look for the crimson-red fallen leaves and marble-sized fruits of the blue quandong on the path. Listen out for rosellas in the Bangalow palms. 
Stairs lead up the final rocky section to a platform with a view of the falls. Unfortunately, there is no pool, but Woolgoolga has a great swimming beach.

Walk info: Easy grade, 3.8km, picnic area 
Did you know?  A weir above the falls supplied water to Woolgoolga until 1982. Can you find remnants of the pipes?

View AllTrails map of Woolgoolga Creek Falls

Explore the hinterland and Bangalore Falls

Bangalore Falls is in Bindarri National Park, in the Coffs Coast hinterland. Getting there is part of the adventure – either up the scenic and twisty Eastern Dorrigo Way or the 4WD rollercoaster known as Pine Road.
Enjoy a short walk through the forest beneath hoop pines and cabbage tree palms. Listen for lyrebirds calling or the scratch of a brush turkey. The walk ends at a platform with a view of the falls.
After your walk, stop by the Café in the Valley at Ulong, or the General store at Lowanna, for coffee and cake. Or head down Pine Road for a picnic and dip in Urumbilum Creek at Bindarray picnic area (4WD). 

Walk info: Easy grade, Cafe at Ulong, picnic area
Did you know?  NPWS are building a new four-day Dorrigo Great Escarpment Walk, which will end at Bindarray.

View AllTrails map of Bangalore Falls

Marvel at majestic Red Cedar Falls

You won’t want to miss the accessible Wonga Walk at Dorrigo National Park, with the insta-shot of the suspension bridge at Crystal Shower Falls. But if you are more energetic and adventurous, continue beyond the Rainforest Centre on the less-travelled road to the Never Never. 
Rosewood Circuit is a shady retreat on a hot summer day when the temperatures on the Dorrigo plateau are cooler than the coast. Tree stumps on the ridge tell of logging, while large tallowwood and brush box can be found on the slopes. In late summer, the track is littered with purple Dorrigo plum.
Red Cedar Track, off Rosewood Circuit, is a steep zigzag descent. You’ll hear the roar, then see white water plunging off a moss and fern-covered cliff into a boulder-choked ravine. Be prepared for both slippery rocks and slippery hitchhikers (aka the leech).

Walk info: Medium to hard grade walk, Cafe at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre 
Did you know?  There are some chilly swimming holes on Rosewood Creek Circuit, so bring your swimmers if you dare!

View AllTrail maps of Red Cedar Falls and Rosewood Circuit

Spy a whale at Look at Me Now! 

The photogenic Look at Me Now headland, with a resident mob of eastern grey kangaroos, has gorgeous coastal views, plus tales of disaster and love. You can watch whales pass by on their annual migration while sea eagles soar overhead. 
For a short walk, park at the headland, otherwise, take the steps off Emerald Beach. Hidden among the banksia is a fenced gravesite. The Damerall family kept a watch on the weather and signals from the lonely lighthouse on South Solitary Island. Long before text messages and emoji’s, lighthouse keeper Harry wooed Maud Damerall across the waves with morse code. 
The sealed headland path is suitable for prams, and there is a playground and café at Emerald Beach. While your pooch isn’t welcome on the headland, the northern part of Emerald Beach is an off-leash paradise.

Walk info: Easy grade, Cafe at Emerald Beach 
Did you know?  You can visit South Solitary Island and the lighthouse on a National Parks ranger-guided tour with Precision Helicopters.

View AllTrails map of Look at Me Now

Everyone loves Coffs Creek 

Walkers, runners, cyclists, families and dog walkers all love the Coffs Creek circuit in the green heart of Coffs Harbour. A mangrove-lined creek, shady forests, wildlife, and artwork make for a lively walk. 
How many imprints can you identify at the intriguing Traces artwork at Saltwater Park? Can you find the satin bowerbird nest as you pass the entrance to the Botanic Gardens. Look for the rusty relics abandoned by early timber-getters near forests of scribbly gum and corkwood. Maybe you will hear a land mullet rustle in the undergrowth or see blueberry ash flowering on the Buluunggal Walk section.
Walk the full creek circuit from the city centre to the beach, or choose a shorter loop, stopping along the way for coffee, to fish, or swim.

Walk info: Easy grade, dogs on leash welcome, Cafes at Coffs CBD and Park Beach
Did you know? Paddlers can experience the creek from a stand-up board on a tour with Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours

View AllTrails map of Coffs Creek Trail

Dog delight at Boambee Beach

Got a dog begging for a long run and a good sniff? Head for Gallows Beach, a popular surfing spot, and follow a track through the dunes beneath flowering banksia and casuarina, bounded by the sea to the east and the railway to the west. Birdlife is abundant here, listen for the distinctive shriek of black cockatoos. 
Pop through the spinifex grasses onto the beach. Boambee Beach is a leash-free zone, so unclip and let your dog run free as you make your way back to Gallows. 
This easy stroll is best at low tide. Keep a watch for 4WD vehicles driving on the beach and horses from the nearby stables out for a trot.

Walk info: Easy grade, dogs offleash beach, cafes and restaurants close by 
Did you know?  If you scramble onto the headland south of Gallows, you will find a WWII observation bunker.

View AllTrail maps of Boambee Dunes

Author Yvonne Everett is a local adventurer and publisher of Coffs Trails, Best Walks of NSW Mid North Coast, and 4WD Treks of North East NSW. 

The Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival is an award-winning celebration of local food. With 10 days of absolute decadence from Bellingen to Woolgoolga, the best of the Coffs Coast is on display.
We touched base with Lindsay Russell, the Director of an award-winning event in the region- The Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival. We’re getting special insights into the delicious program and diving into to the world of locally sourced ingredients.

There is something for everyone at The Big Banana Fun Park

As I explored the park, I learned about its fascinating history. The giant banana was first dreamed up by farmer John Landi in 1964 as a way to attract passing traffic to his roadside banana stall. With the help of local engineer Alan Chapman, the first ‘big thing’ in Australia was born on December 22 of that year. Since then, The Big Banana Fun Park has grown to include a range of exciting activities that will keep you entertained all day long.

Get ready to challenge yourself on the 36-hole mini-golf course or get your heart racing on the biggest Giant Slide in the country known as the ‘Racer’. And with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from, you’re guaranteed to have a great time no matter what the weather.

So whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out, a couple looking for an adventure, or a solo traveller, The Big Banana Fun Park is the ultimate destination for anyone looking to inject some excitement and adventure into their day. With so much to see and do, it’s hard to think of a reason not to plan a trip to the Coffs Coast, especially for this ‘big’ day out!

This article was written by Jessi Simpson

There are just a handful of places along the length of Australia’s east coast where the majestic great dividing range comes close to meeting the edge of the Pacific Ocean.

The Coffs Coast, almost halfway between Sydney and Brisbane via the Pacific Highway, is one of those places. The sub-tropical climate here provides what has often been described as one of the most liveable environments in the country.

Surrounded by National Parks and looking out to the magnificent Solitary Islands Marine Park, Coffs Harbour – the region’s hub – is famously home to Australia’s first ‘Big Thing’ – the Big Banana. But there’s certainly plenty more to enjoy here.

There’s a wide range of exciting activities, including fishing, scuba diving, white-water rafting and dolphin spotting, complementing the abundant natural attractions and uncrowded beaches. There are also impressive resorts and hotels to choose from, while foodies will love the award-winning cafés and restaurants in abundance across the region.

And then, of course, there is a fine selection of golf courses to play.

Any golf holiday on the Coffs Coast must include at least one round at Bonville Golf Resort – a mainstay of Golf Australia magazine’s Top-100 Courses ranking for the past two decades and has been voted Australia’s Favourite Course by our readers every year since 2016. One round here, and you will agree the plaudits are well-deserved.

The greatest strides in Bonville’s evolution have occurred during the past decade with the playing surfaces and bunkering being consistently presented to a five-star standard.

One of the highlights of this Ted Stirling and Terry Watson-designed layout is its call to pull the driver from your bag and have a lash. There are few more spectacular sights than watching your drive from one of the many elevated tees sailing above and then between the strands of flooded gums lining the fairway. The 346-metre 2nd is one such hole where the fairway descends gradually from the tee and slopes markedly from right-to-left as it turns at 45 degrees right and climbs to the green. Trying to cut the corner with your tee shot is fraught with danger as flooded gums and bunkers come into play. Ideally, a faded drive down the centre of the fairway will leave you a mid- to short-iron approach to the green. Bunkers come into play around the green but it is the majesty of the flooded gums either side of the fairway and green that will take your breath away.

The same Bonville ‘magic’ will impress as you prepare to drive from the photogenic 18th hole. The 460-metre closer is not a long par-5 by modern standards, particularly when the second half of the hole is downhill. A well-struck tee shot here to the crest of a hill will leave you with a decision to make – do you go for the green or do you lay-up, and where? Before you load up, soak in the view. Strategy is all-important here, as a bunker and a stream cutting through the fairway short of the green come into play. Some longer hitters may only require a mid- to short-iron to the green after driving over the hill, but it remains a tough approach, which ideally needs to be left on the low side of the hole.

In March 2024 Bonville Golf Resort joined the Great Golf Courses of Australia (GGCA) as a member of the elite Signature Tier. A partnership between Tourism Australia, state tourism bodies and the golf industry, Great Golf Courses of Australia showcases the best of Australia’s golf product to international markets

Long before the establishment of the Bonville Golf Resort in 1992, the Coffs Harbour Golf Club – just minutes from the centre of town – was gaining acclaim for its challenging layout. In fact, there was a long period of time during the 1950s and ‘60s when Australia’s best players and a few overseas stars were annual regulars for the North Coast Open.

The honour board for the event reads like a who’s who of golf in that era. Ten years before he won the centenary Open Championship, Kel Nagle was a victor at Coffs Harbour. He won three of the next four titles before handing over the winner’s baton to the great South African Gary Player, who won twice. A young Bruce Crampton followed with former Australian Open champ Frank Phillips, the legendary Norman Von Nida also picking up a winner’s cheque. Billy Dunk snared four titles between 1966 and 1971, a few years before the event became an amateur open event. The North Coast Open – the first tournament in Australia to be played as four rounds over four days – has been played at Coffs Harbour for more than six decades and during that time there have been plenty of major changes made to the original course.

The club moved to its present site in 1938 with Carnegie Clark designing the original nine-holes. Course designer Arthur East oversaw the extension of the layout to 18 holes less than 12 months before Nagle’s 1951 North Coast victory. A further nine holes were added in the early ‘70s, while all the putting surfaces were converted to Bermuda Tifgreen 328 grass in the late ‘80s.

“Subtle elevation changes and a wide variety of different holes requiring a range of shots, combined with beautifully manicured fairways and greens, make Coffs a favourite for me.” 

Top-100 ranking judge Daniel O’Keefe.

More recently, former PGA Tour player and course designer Craig Parry has worked closely with course superintendent Justin Sheehan to implement some design changes on key holes ahead of creating a masterplan for further renovations.

Coffs Harbour not only boasts a wonderful history, it is one of the most challenging and best-maintained layouts in regional NSW, which didn’t go unnoticed by Golf Australia magazine ranking judges as the Lakes Course (Holes 1-18) rose four places to No.85 in 2023.

“Subtle elevation changes and a wide variety of different holes requiring a range of shots, combined with beautifully manicured fairways and greens, make Coffs a favourite for me,” ranking judge Daniel O’Keefe said.

The picturesque seaside town of Nambucca Heads is an easy 40-minute drive south of the Coffs Harbour course. This is where the Nambucca River flows into the sea and there are several lookouts dotted along the headlands offering spectacular views – to South West Rocks to the south, north towards Coffs Harbour and west along the river to the mountains. This westerly aspect also provides a glimpse of the town’s unique golf course.

The par-69 layout of the Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club is the only course in Australia that occupies an entire island. The original nine-hole course was extended to an 18-hole layout in 1992 to occupy all of Stuart Island in the Nambucca River, just upstream from where the river meets the sea.

It is a picturesque layout that – like several lesser-known courses in the Coffs Coast region – will surprise the visiting golfer expecting “just another country course”. Nambucca Island is certainly more than that.

Whether it is the waters of the Nambucca River, rows of pine trees or casuarinas, bunkers or the rise and fall of the greens, each hole has at least one defence or a combination of the above. The 354-metre par-4 1st throws down the challenge from the opening tee shot. Although the fairway is generously wide, the beautiful Nambucca River laps at the shore just a few metres from the left edge of the fairway.

In March last year it was a much different scene with the river breaking its banks and covering most of the course in floodwater and accompanying silt. It was a similar story to varying degrees for courses right across the Coffs Coast region, but all have since recovered nicely.

Standing in the middle of the short par-4 3rd hole, the couch fairway is pure and carpet-like. Up ahead, the putting surface is smooth beneath the morning dew. It’s hard to imagine this hole was one of many that were six feet under water at the height of the floods. The recovery has been amazing.

There are several water hazards – apart from the river – that come into play throughout the round, which features some standout short holes.

The slight dogleg left par-4 6th measures 326 metres from the tips and can be played a variety of ways, as long as you avoid the wetlands that line the left edge of the fairway. The hazard also wraps around the back of the green, adding some spice to the shot and club selection for the second shot.

Water also plays a role on the next hole, arguably Nambucca’s best par-3. The 175-metre 7th features a large, beautifully shaped green that is the target beyond a lake and a stream, which cuts in front of the green and winds along the right of the small section of fairway short of the putting surface.

Playing the ‘Island’ at Nambucca is more than just memorable for the river and its tree-lined fairways. It is a fun course to play.

Halfway between Nambucca Heads and Coffs Harbour, and about 10 minutes’ drive west of the Pacific Highway via Waterfall Way, is the beautiful hinterland town of Bellingen – renowned for its cultural festivals, markets and an appetite-satisfying destination for food lovers.

Sawtell’s main street, just a short stroll from the beach, has some great cafés and restaurants. If you’re looking for a good coffee and a nice view, you’ll get both, as you wile away the time before another round of golf, at the Sawtell Surf Club’s The Kiosk. The views across the beach to the breaking waves are outstanding and the coffee is pretty good too.

Sawtell Golf Club is only a bit more than a lengthy par-5 from the beach via the town’s pretty Moreton Bay fig-lined main street.

The course first opened for play in 1946 and over the years more holes were added to finally complete a par-71 18-hole course. The layout was completely redeveloped during the 1990s, as the club’s greens staff worked through a systematic rebuilding of all the putting surfaces. The old table-top greens were replaced with larger, more imaginative, putting surfaces featuring swales and tiers. They were grassed with Bermuda Tifgreen 328, which is more suitable for greens in warmer and wetter sub-tropical climates. The modernising of the greens also gave scope for improving greenside bunkering.

Today, Sawtell’s green complexes are among the best presented on the NSW North Coast.

After playing the downhill 1st hole, the par-4 2nd climbs the same hill back to the clubhouse. It plays considerably longer than its 279 metres and accuracy is needed to avoid the tall gum trees that cloak the tee and form a chute to the fairway. Club selection for the approach shot is important and can be two- to three-clubs more than what you may need for a flat lie shot. The green slopes steeply off the front, while the top plateau has a dish-like appearance, while the huge bunker left of the green is best avoided.

Chances are if you are travelling to the Coffs Coast for the first time you may not have heard of Safety Beach Golf Club.

Previously known as the Woolgoolga Diggers Golf Club, Safety Beach covers some pretty good golfing terrain on the northside of Woolgoolga, about 30 minutes’ drive north of Coffs Harbour.

A round on the heavily tree-lined par-72 layout is nearly always played with an accompanying breeze. But the wind and huge trees across the course are not the only factors influencing your scoring here with numerous water hazards, wetlands and bunkers coming into play across the 18 holes.

The course opens with two short par-4s that can yield back-to-back birdies as easy as consecutive bogeys depending on the quality of your tee shot. But it’s not until you have rounded the sharp dogleg left on the par-5 3rd hole that you get a real sense of the course that lies ahead. Faced with a long downhill approach, the green is quite reachable in two blows but it is actually better to finish short as a pond lies just beyond the putting surface.

Water also comes into play greenside on the best, in my opinion, short par-4 at Safety Beach. The 283-metre 5th is tempting for big hitters standing on the tee, but I think I would back the conservative play to yield a birdie here. A water hazard stretches from the front of the tee all the way down the right edge of the fairway to flow into a lily-covered pond lying hard against the right fringe of the putting surface. Bets to lay-up short of a lone bunker in the middle of the fairway, about 40 metres short of the green, and leave a straightforward pitch into the narrow green.

There is more water to contend with on the back nine, with the tee shot on the 117-metre 11th hole being the most visually confronting. The tee shot needs to be played across a lake to an elevated green two-tiered, kidney-shaped green cut into the side of a hill. While the carry is not too daunting, it is the prospect that any shot missing the putting surface left could easily trickle down the hill into the drink.

For more golfing stories, check out. golfaustralia.com.au

This article was originally published in Golf Australia Magazine in February 2023. All images and editorial by Brendan James.

TOURING THE COFFS COAST

With a winning combination of excellent accommodation, a bustling foodie scene and jaw-dropping natural beauty, it’s no wonder the Coffs Coast has long been a popular holiday destination.

The Coffs Coast is the only place in NSW where the Great Diving Range meets the ocean… home to a rich ecosystem including world-heritage National Parks, State Forests, Flora Reserves and the Solitary Islands Marine Park, the oldest of its kind in the state. The region also boasts sites of great significance to the traditional owners of this land, the Gumbaynggirr People.

In 2021 the Coffs Coast was globally recognised as an ECO Destination … celebrated for its diverse cultural community, committed to balancing sustainable practices with first-class, nature-based visitor experiences. It is NSW’s first ECO destination.

NATURE ESCAPES

Love the outdoors? Here are some great ideas for experiencing the natural wonders in and around Coffs Harbour.

• Stroll along the northern breakwall to Muttonbird Island, keeping an eye on the water to spot turtles and dolphins along the way. Then, take the steep walk over the island to the eastern lookout for unique views back over Coffs Harbour before visiting the island’s fascinating Gumbaynggirr outdoor learning centre.

• The Coffs Botanic Garden in the heart of the city is perfect for a picnic and relaxing walk. Set among 20 acres of lush plant life, you’ll find exotic and native species and glasshouses containing rare displays of tropical plants.

• No Coffs Coast holiday is complete without a visit to Forest Sky Pier and the award-winning Sealy Lookout, which stretches out from an escarpment 310 metres above Coffs Harbour and offers unparalleled coastal views of up to 100km to the south on a clear day.

• One of Coffs Harbour’s icons, The Jetty was built in 1890 from local timber to accommodate cargo vessels. Now it’s where locals congregate to fish, swim, stroll, watch the sunrise or dine on fish ‘n’ chips.

• Just five minutes from the city, Coffs Creek is an oasis for families who can safely paddle in its shallow turquoise waters. The creek and its mangrove forests can be easily accessed at several points, and are begging to be explored on a paddleboard or kayak.

FABULOUS FOOD & DRINK

The Coffs Coast packs a punch when it comes to foodie experiences. Whether it’s freshly caught seafood, fine wines, distilled spirits, craft beers or incredible coffee, there’s a foodie experience here to tickle your taste buds.
Immerse yourself in a full-day tour with the experts and learn about the stories behind our producers and the inspiration behind the flavours they create. Explore on your own and take your time relaxing with friends to discover the fabulous country hospitality while your taste buds experience the new and fresh unique regional flavours.

WHERE TO PLAY

BONVILLE GOLF RESORT

Green fees: Golf is available for in-house guests seven days and to general public guests on Mondays and Tuesdays (except public holidays). Public: $175 (18 holes, inc. cart, September to May); $170 (June to August).

www.bonvillegolf.com.au

COFFS HARBOUR GC

Green fee: $50 (18 holes).

www.coffsharbourgolfclub.com.au

BELLINGEN GC

Green fees: $20 (18 holes). $15 (unlimited golf after 2pm and all day Sunday).

www.bellingengolfclub.com.au

SAWTELL GC

Green fee: $40 (18 holes).

www.sawtellgolf.com.au

NAMBUCCA HEADS ISLAND GC

Green fee: $40 (18 holes, pictured below)

www.namgolf.com

SAFETY BEACH GC

Green fee: $19 (unlimited golf).

www.safetybeachgolf.com.au

SOUTH WEST ROCKS CC

Green fee: $30 (18 holes).

www.rockscountryclub.com.au