Category: Local Guides

With a coastline that stretches nearly 80 km from Sawtell in the south to Red Rock in the north, there are plenty of beaches to choose from on the Coffs Coast.

Want family-friendly picnic spots? Tick. Excellent surf breaks? Tick. Relaxing early morning sunrise walks to marvel at the spectacular sunrises from spectacular headlands? Tick.

The Coffs Coast is home to more than 30 beautiful beaches, and we can guarantee you’ll find a beach that is just perfect for you. To help you choose your next beach destination, we’ve curated a guide featuring ten of the best beaches on the Coffs Coast. Enjoy!

For The Families

Jetty Beach

Jetty Beach is one of the most visited beaches in Coffs Harbour and, with its protected bay, is perfect for swimming, taking a stroll or exploring the foreshores. Jetty Beach and the reserve are home to multiple playgrounds, barbeques and picnic shelters, making it ideal for families to spend the entire day soaking up the coastal vibes.

You can explore the foreshores and International Marina or grab some fish and chips from the Fishermens Co-op or delicious tasty treats from the nearby restaurants and cafes. Take a short stroll along the historical Jetty or walk the northern break-wall and up to Muttonbird Island for views across the ocean to the hinterland. The Island is a nature lover’s playground with nesting seabirds, marine life spotting with turtles, and dolphins or whales during the winter months. Muttonbird Island is a sacred site for local Aboriginal people and is also known as Gidany Miriari in the Gumbaynggirr language.

The Harbourside Markets are on every Sunday morning with a vast range of stalls, including art, jewellery, clothing, beauty and lifestyle products, plenty of fresh local produce, and live music.

Did you know? The old timber Jetty is over 100 years old and is very accessible; you can even walk your dog along it. The end of the Jetty is excellent for fishing and taking photos of the boats at the International Marina and Muttonbird Island.

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Park Beach

Surfers and beach enthusiasts flock to Park Beach, the main surf beach in Coffs Harbour, due to its excellent surf breaks and conditions. The spot offers an exposed beach break with consistent surf breaks or simply enjoying the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. There is no shortage of things to do on this part of the Coffs Coast.

At the south end of Park Beach, a reserve with shelters, barbecues, and plenty of open grassy space are perfect for family picnics. Park Beach Reserve hosts the Twilight Food Markets every Friday night, from September through to April, with the clear water of Coffs Creek as its backdrop. The food market features a selection of cultural cuisines to taste as you kick back and listen to local musicians jamming away while enjoying the sunset.

Did you know? This stretch of beach is patrolled all year round but remember to stay safe and always swim between the flags.

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Sapphire Beach

Sapphire Beach is a serene stretch of the Coffs Coast, located between White Bluff and Green Bluff, Sapphire Beach boasts clear blue waters and captivating coastline views. The foreshore area has a well-equipped, popular playground to entertain the kids for hours.

Towards the southern end of Sapphire Beach, a short walk along the White Bluff Walking Track allows visitors to admire the coastline stretching south across Campbells Beach. Midway along Sapphire Beach is the South Solitary Island viewing platform, where you can take in panoramic views of this historic lighthouse island and neighbouring island, Split Solitary Island.

Sapphire Beach caters to families with ample grassy space for the kids to run around, an expansive playground featuring a zip line, beach showers, toilets and plenty of parking with easy beach access. While the kids burn off energy on the playground, grab lunch or a coffee at Stef Beachstone.

Did you know? Dogs are welcome on Sapphire Beach as long as they are kept on a leash.

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For The Surfers

Macauleys Beach

A local favourite for quick dips, surfing and scenic walks, Macauleys Beach is located at the northern end of Park Beach. Sheltered and secluded, it is a beautiful gem on the Coffs Coast. Perfect for surfers, Macauleys Beach provides a northeast swell that produces a long left off the headland. The consistent break offers surfable waves at all tide stages, perfect for beginners or the more seasoned board rider.

Wildlife watchers can spot an array of species, including white-bellied eagles, dolphins and whales, during their annual migration north. For a short walk, visit Macauleys Headland along the paved track uphill to continue north toward Diggers Beach. The walking trail has incredible views over the turquoise coast, looking back toward Muttonbird Island and the Solitary Islands.

If you need to reload your carbs after an epic surf or walk, take a short stroll to Peach & Wolf Bakery for fresh daily made pastries.

Did you know? Macauleys is a famous beach for surfing competitions, including the Billabong Oz Grom Cup

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GALLOWS BEACH

A popular morning surf spot in Coffs Harbour with perfect conditions that attracts many surfers and is one of the most visited surfing destinations on the Coffs Coast. It boasts dramatic coastal landscapes from the nearby headland and along Boambee Beach.

Gallows Break out at Corambirra Point offers confident surfers an exciting challenge, but it’s not only surfers who visit this peaceful spot. The water here is warm and clear, and the sea bed is sprinkled with rocks, making it the ultimate location for snorkelers. Bring the family dog for an off-leash walk along the sand or up/around Corambirra Point for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glistening seas. Take a picnic and a bottle of wine to watch the most beautiful sunset on the Coffs Coast. Watch as the sun dips below the hinterland mountains, turning the sky the most brilliant golden colour.

The local restaurant Jetty Beach House is situated on Corambirra Point with unbeatable ocean views of Gallows, Corambirra Point and the southern break wall. The restaurant serves exquisite cocktails, delicious food throughout the day and plenty of ticketed events along with live music entertainment.

Did you know? In true surfers’ terminology, breaks that are more challenging are given special names such as “Gallows” and “Trapdoors” located at the southern end of Boambee Beach at the mouth of the river. Both Gallow and Trapdoors offer the best wave conditions in the area.

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The Best Of Both worlds

Sawtell Beach

Picturesque Sawtell Beach is a treasured section of the Coffs Coast, celebrated not only for its natural beauty but its bustling community, which can be found only moments away. An ideal spot for families and surfers alike, Sawtell Beach marks the end of the Solitary Island Coastal walk and is a great way to spend a day in the water or explore the tidal rock pools.

Patrolled between September and April, Sawtell Beach is a favourite for swimmers and families with children. Praised as a great location for walking, Sawtell offers a handful of walking trails. At the southern end of Sawtell beach is Bonville Lookout, which visitors can climb to watch migrating whales during the winter months or follow the winding track down to Sawtell Memorial Rock Pool which is built into the rocks at the foot of the headland. Visit Sailors Bay, a small bay sheltered by an island on the southern side of the headland, to experience calm conditions that make this section of Sawtell Beach perfect for children.

Nearby picnic areas, children’s playgrounds, showers and barbecue facilities make Sawtell Beach a perfect place for the whole family to enjoy a day at the beach. Surfers of all ages and abilities will find a wave thanks to the existence of some sheltered areas like Sailors Bay. The more experienced surfers will love the higher waves that peel away from the bay resulting in longer point-style waves.

FACT: Solitary Islands Surf School offers a range of surfing lesson options at Sawtell, including Holiday Surfing Lessons for beginners and private surfing experiences.

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Diggers Beach

Diggers Beach is a gently curved, unspoiled beach on the Coffs Coast, thanks to its consistent beach breaks in the north and sheltered southern end, perfect for swimming. Framed by two rocky headlands – Diggers Head and Macauleys Headland – Diggers Beach is wide, sheltered and often wind-free, making it ideal for swimming, surfing and fishing.

With two walking trails accessible from both ends of the beach, there’s plenty of opportunity for exploration and wildlife spotting. The Diggers Head Trail offers walkers a chance to experience a tropical oasis of the coastal rainforest before opening up to windows of panoramic vistas at Diggers Head. To the south, the Macauleys Headland walking track follows the jagged coastline before descending to Macauleys Beach.

The southern end of Diggers Beach offers great surfing and is a swimmer’s haven that is seasonally patrolled. The protected north end of the beach provides excellent protection from the north-easterly winds, making Diggers a great spot to learn how to surf.

When you have enough of the sand and sun, you can take a rest in the neighbouring picnic area and children’s playground or spend some time wildlife spotting in the elevated pavilion. See which seabirds you can spot, or just take in the uninterrupted sea views.

Did you know? You can get something to eat or your morning brew from the friendly folks at Frothers, the coffee van in the car park.

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Moonee Beach & Reserve

Moonee Beach is the perfect spot to spend the day at the reserve enjoying water-based activities such as snorkelling, fishing, paddle boarding and kayaking. Moonee Beach Reserve area has plenty of big trees that offer shade for picnics and relaxing, and there’s everything you need for a family day out with a children’s playground, barbeques, and amenities. Many visitors return to this spot for its crystal waters, wading in the creek, and the stunning views of the unique shoreline with the South Solitary Islands lighthouse in the distance.

You can soak up nature heading north along the beach to Look At Me Now Headland or south across the footbridge through native foliage and open grassy patches to Green Bluff. The reserve areas are excellent for birdwatchers who might be lucky enough to spot white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys or Brahminy Kites hunting along the coast. During the winter, you can spot whales migrating north along the coastline from the beach and Green Bluff.

Did you know? The Moonee Beach reserve area is pet-friendly. You can book accommodation at Reflections Moonee Beach Holiday Park staying in one of their cabins or camping.

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For The Dog Lovers

North Wall Beach (Park Beach South)

At the mouth of Coffs Creek is the popular North Wall Beach, the most central and probably the most popular off-leash beach on the coast. There’s the loop walk with a pathway through the green foliage towards the creek and sand giving your four-legged friend plenty of variety before hitting the beach.

North Wall Beach boasts plenty of space for your dog to get sand between their paws and salt spray in their fur. This beautiful stretch of sand is looped around to the mouth of the creek, where your pooch can splash about in the clear waters.

An exposed point break makes North Wall a great spot to catch some consistent waves, but with no lifesaving patrols, swimmers should head to Park Beach or Jetty Beach for safer waters. At the southern edge of Northwall, visitors enjoy access to the Harbour precinct with restaurants, cafes, and facilities. The Coffs Harbour Marina walkway, which eventually arrives at Muttonbird Island, makes for a short but stunning walk enhanced with views of sailing boats and glimpses of incredible birdlife.

Did you know? You can grab some fresh seafood and order delicious takeaway fish and chips from the Fishermens Co-op.

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Emerald Beach

Emerald Beach is a laidback seaside village just 15 minutes north of Coffs Harbour and a stone’s throw from Moonee Beach Reserve. This stretch of the Coffs Coast is known for its protected wildlife, breathtaking coastal landscapes, idyllic lifestyle and a great selection of fabulous local eateries just a short stroll from the beach.

Lifeguards patrol Emerald Beach during the summer holidays. Thanks to a southern left-hand reef break as well as a beach break, it’s also a surfing hotspot. The team from Solitary Island Surf School can often be teaching beginner surf lessons at Emerald Beach – the southern headland shelters the beach from larger swells, making it perfect for newbies.

Emerald Beach is also a popular place to get out for a stroll because of the walking tracks on the surrounding headland and leading to iconic Coffs Coast views (including whales in winter!). To the south, the Dammerel Headland Track leads to Shelly Beach and Look At Me Now Headland, where you can spot grazing eastern grey kangaroos lazing in the sun. North is Diggers Point, part of Moonee Beach Reserve, and a lovely walking track to Fiddamans Beach.

Did you know? The Dammerels history walk is a shot easy stroll with spectacular views out to the Solitary Islands, named by Captian Cook.

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Discover Them all

To explore all the Coffs Coast beaches, spend a few days walking the coastline’s trails across golden beaches, rocky headlands, and lush rainforests linked together, forming the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk. This iconic walking experience, one of the most picturesque on the east coast of Australia, runs the length of the protected Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Photography Credit: Matt Evans from Naturally Creative

Discover The Latest Food & Drink Spots On The Coffs Coast

When it comes to all things food & drink the Coffs Coast is abuzz with new, reopened and revamped restaurants and cafes.

From brand-new bakeries and cafes to new restaurants and casual dining options, 2022 certainly bought some new faces to the busy hospitality scene and saw some familiar faces give us something new.

Food & drink lovers will find plenty of opportunities to fill the foodie tank on the Coffs Coast with feasting spots for breakfast, lunch and dinner from the hinterland to the beach.

We’ve put together a list of some new food spots that you need to check out. So make a dinner date or plan a catch-up with your friends, because these newbies are worth visiting!

Peach & Wolf Bakery

Some people are unfairly good at things, but luckily for us, one of them has recently moved to the Coffs Coast and has opened Peach & Wolf Bakery.

Found directly across the road from Park Beach and the Hoey Moey, Peach & Wolf has quickly become a local favourite for its delectable options such as sweet cinnamon scrolls, buttery croissants and hearty sausage rolls that you won’t be able to finish off by yourself.

Peach & Wolf is run by Laura, whose passion for creating the perfect croissant has taken her around the world. Laura moved to the Coffs Coast as part of a lifestyle change bringing with her a vision to create a neighbourhood bakery where community and sustainability are at the heart of her business.

You won’t find any glad wrap in this kitchen and even the milk cartons get a second life as coffee trays.
“I try to encourage people to bring their own cup by giving a discount when you bring your own cup or when you bring your own bag for bread or a container for your pastries. I just want to sell the food we make, not the packaging it comes in,” says Laura

Peach & Wolf’s signature flaky butter pastry encases a range of options to satisfy your morning craving. Grab a Monsieur, a Kevin Bacon or its vegetarian option Green Kevin, as well as an Allpress coffee and your breakfast is sorted.

The Kevin Bacon, my personal favourite, is for the classic bacon & eggs lovers. Bangalow smoked bacon, homemade smoky tomato relish topped with a fresh egg sitting in a nest of flaky buttery pastry, makes for a taste explosion.
Vegetarians don’t miss out. Filled with creamy homemade ricotta, local organic greens from New Life Farm and again topped with a fresh egg, the Green Kevin will take your tastebuds on a savoury journey.

As well as quick grab-and-go options, Peach & Wolf sell all types of fresh bread for your sandwich needs. Multiple sourdough options like Super Seeds Sourdough, Super Fruit Sourdough and even a Sourdough Wheel, made of 7 individual buns, are stacked high on the racks. You’d better be quick though (or even pre-order), as these loaves of bread usually sell out!

Options are plentiful for those that enjoy something a little sweeter; from the usual suspects such as plain croissants, cinnamon scrolls and fruit mince tarts. If you are lucky you may even find a weekend specialising local and seasonal ingredients to create something really spectacular like the Almost Tiramisù, a crunchy croissant wheel filled with boozy mocha creme-pat, topped with whipped homemade ricotta & mascarpone. Are you drooling yet?

Peach & Wolf is open Tuesday through to Sunday from 7am. Jump onto the website and pre-order, you don’t want to risk missing out!

Peach & Wolf
29/87 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour

Stef Beachstone

Although Stef Beachstone is a new kid on the block, owner and head chef Stefano Mazzina has been a familiar face on the Coffs Coast food scene for over 16 years. Famous for his woodfired pizza at Fiasco Ristorante, Stef has taken his passion for simple Italian food and combined it with Australian modern classics to create a relaxed beachside venue with an emphasis on quality food and friendly staff.

Stef Beachstone’s menu feels familiar, but wanting to break free of the cuisine he has become renowned for. Stefano is influenced by flavours not traditionally used in Italian cooking, resulting in fresh takes on some classics like the stack of fluffy pancakes made with hemp seeds, wholemeal flour and piled high with summer fruit, drizzled with honey and coconut yoghurt – the perfect breakfast for the sweet tooth of the family. For the savoury lovers try the egg taco – a spicy nduja is scrambled into eggs with sautéed potatoes on a bed of slaw and onion, sprinkled with coriander and served in a warmed soft tortilla.
The all-day menu has plenty of options for those looking for a lunch bite and for those who may have dietary requirements. Four different types of burgers, including a vegan option, offer something more substantial for those wanting to fill the holes in their stomachs and ordering a wild rice bowl with fresh seasonal vegetables topped with a tahini & ginger dressing will give you your daily serve of goodness.

Stefano’s passion for using only the best quality is apparent in the ingredients he uses. Sourcing as much local produce as possible including mushrooms and lettuces from Bonville, Stefano grinds his own beef for the burgers and makes the pasta fresh every day.
Staying true to his Italian roots, Stefano’s current obsession is to create “the best pizza in Coffs Harbour. This obsession has seen him build, with the help of some friends, his own woodfire pizza oven. The hand-built pizza oven takes pride of place at the front of Stef Beachstone and is churning out delicious pizzas for dinner from Thursday to Sunday. Stefano believes the best pizza starts with a great dough and “if you don’t have a good dough, then it’s like putting paper down for the foundation of your house”. Using only the best flour, organic tomatoes and fantastic cheese the pizzas are made fresh and to order. No soggy crusts here!

All this food talk got you thirsty? Stef Beachstone has the usual suspects you would expect to find at an Italian restaurant including Aperol Spritz and Negroni with the addition of some classic cocktails like the margarita, even local Critters Vodka makes an appearance in the Critters Drop, a cocktail reminiscent of the classic sweet but sour Lemon Drop. Local breweries, King Tide and Woopi Brewery have a healthy offering on the beer menu and traditional Italian variety wines sit alongside Roses and Sauvignon Blancs from Australia. Pop on down to Stef Beachstone Friday-Sunday for happy hour specials including Aperol Spritzes, beer and wine.

Stefano has created a comfortable and uncomplicated space for the Sapphire Beach community, where they can grab a quick breakfast and delicious coffee while the kids play in the playground and run in the open grassy area. Or if they so please, get dressed up and enjoy a night of cocktails and pizzas. By keeping the menu simple and having classics such as gnocchi and burgers available, all customers will find a dish they recognise and maybe some new ones they would like to try.
“When someone reads the menu they should know everything on it and not have to ask what something is,” says Stefano.
Stef Beachstone has bought a little bit of Italy to the dunes of Sapphire Beach and provides a place where the local community can come and relax and simply enjoy good food.

Stef Beachstone
2 Beach Way, Sapphire Beach

Morty’s Joint

With its all-black pool table, moody lighting, hip-hop music and booth seating you would be forgiven for thinking you have stepped into a bar in Fitzroy Melbourne instead of the latest offering on Sawtell’s First Avenue strip. Named after the owner’s beloved Blue-heeler fur baby, Morty’s Joint delivers casual dining and a place to spend those summer afternoons after knocking off work.

Husband and wife duo Bianca & Rick (the team behind Bar Que Sera) created Morty’s Joint to be reminiscent of the neighbourhood bars they once visited while living in Melbourne.
“When you know everyone who works there, you don’t really make plans, you just go and there will always be at least one person you know. It has your favourite beers on tap, you like the food, and the vibe is good. You just show up and you know you’re going to have a good time,” explains Bianca.

“We created Morty’s Joint to be a place where we would want to go on our days off.”

When first planning Marty’s Joint Rick & Bianca knew that good food, beer and wine were essential.

“When we were thinking about the elements of a bar and what would make you want to hang around, food is really important of course, people in this region go out more for food rather than just drinks, there needed to be a good balance of those plus something to do while you’re having a beer,” added Bianca.

Morty’s Joint’s vibe is more relaxed than the wine bar atmosphere at Bar Que Sera next door, and with that comes a more casual menu. One bite of the southern-style chicken fried in duck fat chilli oil, and you know this crispy yet juicy morsel is not your average fried chicken. Over ten different aromats including two different types of chilli flakes give the southern-style chicken a distinctive red hue, but only give a small amount of heat in the mouth.

If you prefer your chicken more on the saucy side, then the sticky wings are for you. Staying true to Asian-style wings, the sticky wings are coated in a soy, garlic and ginger sauce and then sprinkled with fresh herbs. The freshness of the herbs burst in your mouth with every bite, taking away some of the heaviness that usually comes with eating fried chicken. Made with soy and tapioca flour, even gluten-free diners can enjoy this sticky goodness!

Talking to Rick about the menu, it’s clear how every single item has been taken to the next level and created to showcase the best ingredients from our region. The Dorrigo beef used in Morty’s Cheeseburger is simply seasoned with salt & pepper before it is grilled to perfection with melted cheese, layered with umami & homemade burger sauce (Rick’s version of Big Mac sauce) and then served with onion and pickles. New Life Farm supplies Morty’s Joint with all their vegetables and pickles for the burgers. At first glance, some dishes like the fried sweet peppers with almond cream and fermented chilli look simple, but you will find they are full of flavour and well-rounded, especially when paired with a cold craft beer. Add some miso & vinegar shoestring fries and you have some flavour combinations you won’t find anywhere else on the Coffs Coast.

Speaking of craft beers, whatever you are partial to you will find at Morty’s Joint. If you are into Hazy Pales, Red Ales or Sours you will find something on the taps or from a can to pique your interest. Breweries such as Brouhaha, White Bay and Little Bang Brewing can be found in the well-stocked beer and wine fridge. Meanwhile, on the rotating taps, you can find Mountain Culture, Philter Brewing and Garage Project, rounding out probably the best craft beer offering on the Coffs Coast. Don’t worry if beer isn’t your thing, as well as spirits and cocktails one expects to find at a bar, Morty’s Joint has an impressive collection of natural wines to choose from both by the glass and if you so please, by the bottle. Mainstream varieties such as Pinot Gris and Chardonnay are backed up by the more adventurous varieties which include Liquid Rock ‘n’ Roll a blend of Gewürztraminer and Reisling – perfect for pairing with the spiciness of the duck fat chilli oil chicken wings.

Using mostly local ingredients Rick has created a simple, but bursting with-flavour menu, featuring levelled-up versions of all your greaser bar favourites. Snacks and fried chicken to share, or your own burger with plenty of sides added on. It’s hard to decide where to start, so make sure you come to Morty’s with an appetite!

Morty’s Joint
63 First Ave, Sawtell

Tin Donkey

Starting its life as a double horse carrier in Adelaide, Tin Donkey’s van has been given a new lease of life. Stripped back, restored and clad in gorgeous ironbark timber, the van is certainly the cutest way to get your coffee fix in West Coffs.

Having temporarily closed over a year ago and recently reopened to enthusiastic locals, Tin Donkey has come back with a vengeance and is now sharing the corner of Frances & Long St with The Mudroom (@themudroom.shop) to create a welcoming and comfortable space only a short stroll from the centre of Coffs Harbour -perfect for a casual meeting or a coffee on the go. Priding themselves on bringing their local community together, where people can get to know their neighbours, the Tin Donkey is bringing inner city life to a pocket of West Coffs.

The husband and wife team, Zac & Mylchie, moved to the Coffs Coast (via Armidale) to escape the rat race of busy Sydney.
“When we were living in Sydney, we didn’t know our neighbours and we didn’t like that. We have changed that here. We know all our neighbours now and our neighbours now know each other.”

Tin Donkey was born from a causal discussion Zac and his cousin were having around creating a soup bar to serve hot soup and stews during the cold Armidale months. So the plan was put into motion to head down to Adelaide and buy a horse float to bring back to Armidale to start fitting out.

Zac & Mylchie made the decision to move closer to family on the Coffs Coast not long after their first child was born and start what was the first iteration of Tin Donkey. Offering catering and mobile bar services to weddings and events, the early days of Tin Donkey ground to a halt when COVID hit and like many businesses, Tin Donkey needed to pivot in order to stay open.

“The one thing they wouldn’t shut down is people getting their daily coffee!”

Tin Donkey continued to bring the local community together until the more severe COVID lockdowns made things more difficult.

“That was the point where we decided for our family’s sake to take some time off here. We made that hard decision and we came back once it had all cleared.”

During Tin Donkey’s closure, Zac & Mylchie made the best of the time off to find a coffee blend that was a bit different to the usual chocolate and caramel notes -something more memorable. That’s when they found Pablo & Rusty Coffee Roasters. Using the premium blend from Pablo & Rusty, Tin Donkey’s coffee is sweet and complex, with a fruit-forward focus, in particular notes of fresh red berries. This results in a coffee that is milder in flavour but still gives an exceptional espresso.

“This coffee does really well as a long black because it has a really sophisticated flavour.”

The food menu at Tin Donkey is simple and fresh and offers quick grab-and-go options to go with your morning coffee. In-house-made carrot cake (made by Mylchie herself!) can often be found gracing the cake cabinet alongside other local cakes, such as Canele’s by Kristy Chan. These vanilla custard-filled crunchy shells often sell out within minutes once the locals get a whiff of them being on sale.
With the view to expand the menu over the next few months, you never know what you may find next time you visit.

Since reopening late last year, Tin Donkey has once again become a hub for the local community and a great spot for a coffee under the 100-Year-old frangipani tree with your neighbour.

“Before we made the decision to close, everyone talked about the Donkey and how certain neighbours knew of each other but never really knew each other, and we have changed that.”

Tin Donkey has re-energized the West Coffs community by creating a special place where they can unwind, enjoy the breeze and watch the trees sway.

Tin Donkey
Corner of Frances and Long St, Coffs Harbour 

Discover the pinnacle of luxury pet-friendly accommodations with Coffs Coast Accommodation. Featuring opulent lodging and pet-welcoming adventures, your stay in NSW’s first ECO Destination promises relaxation and rejuvenation for both you and your furry companion

Pet-friendly Luxury AccommodatioN

From expansive ocean views, accommodation for up to 10 guests, swimming pools and a concierge service available, these three properties have all the bells and whistles to make your next getaway exceptional.

Enhance your holiday experience with a Concierge Service

Pet-friendly Activities

You don’t have to look very far to find natural surroundings that are both beautiful and allow you and your dogs to explore both on and off leash.
When holidaying with your pet, it’s handy to know some great local spots to venture to:

Pet Friendly Dining

For the Happiest of Pets – Other Helpful Resources

Whether you want to stay on the beach or in the hinterland, there IS plenty of pet friendly accommodation options on the Coffs Coast.

If you’re after a beachside holiday for the whole family, including the dog, the Coffs Coast offers many accommodation options on or near the beach. Some favourites include Jetty House, Alarks Nest Bed and Breakfast, Hibiscus Tropic Lodge, Pacific Vista and Korora Bay Village. Closer to the city centre, you can choose from Big Windmill Motel, Chelsea Motor Inn and Toreador Motel. The Northern Beaches offers stays at ArtHouse Beachfront, Rosebourne Gardens Motel and Woolgoolga Coast Motel.

Luxury Stays

Coffs Coast Accommodation offers family-friendly and luxury properties, which provide a wonderful range of holiday accommodation solutions for the whole family; four-legged family members included!  

Whether you and your pooch prefer more casual surroundings or total beachfront luxury, they have you soaking up the comforts in one of their many Luxury holiday homes, including Liapari Luxury Beach House, CC by the Sea, Beachfront by the CC , Villa Kopai , Sea Pine Cottage, Tea Trees and Zaffiro Beach House.

Green Rolling Hills

If you’re looking for something quiet with plenty of green space, book some accommodation in the Coffs Harbour hinterland. Pet-friendly stay options in the Orara Valley include; Friday Creek Retreat, Mount Browne Cottage , Misty Hills House and Coffs Coast Mountain Retreat.

Camping Holiday

Check-in to the Woolgoolga Lakeside Holiday Park, Discovery Parks Emerald Beach and Sapphire Beach Holiday Park. Or the popular Reflections Holiday Parks Moonee Beach, one of the many contemporary pet-friendly accommodations surrounded by the tranquil Moonee Creek, the Moonee Beach Reserve and Green Bluff headland. Reflections Holliday Parks Red Rock tops the list in this nature lover’s paradise and is popular for swimming, surfing, boating and bushwalking along with Reflections Holiday Park at Corindi Beach. Closer to the town centre of Coffs Harbour, there is The Clog Barn Caravan Park and Reflections Holiday Park Coffs Harbour.

It’s all in the Planning

Pets can become distressed when being on the move, so ensure a smooth ride by providing your pet with enough water and monitoring the temperature. Follow these helpful tips about travelling with pets:

• Ask your vet for advice before you travel.
• Exercise your pets about 20 minutes before the trip.
• Restrain your pets in a carrier or harness in the car.
• Never leave your pets unattended in your vehicle.
• Take regular bathroom breaks on your journey.

It’s worth noting that no domestic pets – other than trained assistance animals like guide dogs – are allowed in national parks, State conservation areas, reserves, historic sites or Aboriginal cultural heritage areas.

Run, walk or play with your dog on the golden sand at Arrawarra Beach in the north, Sawtell Beach (North) a little further south, Korora Beach and Sapphire Beach in the centre, and many others in between. Be sure to check the Coffs Harbour City Council website for detailed maps of dog-friendly areas.

For ideas on where you can take your dog while you are dining out or exploring the Coffs Coast, you can find some suggestions in our directories, Pet-Friendly Activities and Pet-Friendly Cafes.

The Coffs Coast packs a punch when it comes to foodie experiences. Whether it’s freshly caught seafood, fine wines, craft beers or incredible coffee, there’s a foodie experience here to tickle your taste buds. 

The local food movement has gathered momentum in recent years – and the stories behind many of our most successful producers are as fascinating as the flavours they create. Food and drink offer an insight into the eclectic communities of the Coffs Coast, allowing visitors to connect with and learn about local producers on tours, at markets and even at the farm (or brewery!) gate. So whatever you have a taste for, it’s here to satisfy those cravings.

By now, you know all about living a more sustainable home life – recycle, reduce waste, turn off your lights, switch to solar, car share, you’ve got it under control.

But what can you do to reduce your impact on the earth when you’re on holiday? Actually, quite a bit! So before you pull up poolside and grab a margarita, check out our top ten tips for being a responsible traveller.

HUNT OUT AN ECO-DESTINATION

As the Coffs Coast is NSW’s first ECO Destination certified by Ecotourism Australia, it’d be remiss of us to leave this one out! ECO Destinations are places where tourism activities have been built for locals by locals. They take extreme care to tread lightly on the natural environment and respect the Indigenous culture of the area (on the Coffs Coast, that’s the Gumbaynggirr People). When you travel to these places, you’re not just a visitor; you’re part of a movement that celebrates conscious travel, sustainable business, and environmental protection.

Choose ECO-accredited operators

As well as being an Eco Destination with an abundance of things to do in the great outdoors, the Coffs Coast is home to eight Ecotourism Australia – certified champions – and several more will be certified in the coming months. By choosing one of these ECO-certified businesses or locations for your next adventure in nature, you can be assured your rich experiences are behaving minimal impact on the environment, and you’re getting the real deal! Coffs Coast is also home to many local businesses that use sustainable practices, tread lightly and get you out into nature.

Pay your respects

Australia has been home to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nations since the Dreaming. The Traditional Owners are profoundly connected to the land and the land to them. One way to be a more conscious and connected traveller is to pay your respects and broaden your knowledge by booking Indigenous-led experiences. There are numerous Gumbaynggirr-led experiences on the Coffs Coast where you can learn more about Country, culture, and how you can help protect and preserve it.

Pack your reusable bags and bottles

This one goes without saying! Before you hit the road, remember to pop a reusable bag and bottle in your backpack. This will get you out of trouble when you need somewhere to stash wet swimmers, grab groceries, or smuggle some locally-bought souvenirs back into your hotel room. And, of course, having a reusable bottle will encourage you to keep hydrated and save money on bottled beverages. It’s 2023; there’s no room for single-use plastic on holiday, folks! That includes asking for no straw in your margarita!

Ditch heavy luggage

We all know planes are massive carbon-producing machines, but did you know that the more a plane weighs, the more carbon it creates? Yep! That means that when it comes to packing, every kilo counts. We know it’s tempting to purchase extra luggage, wear six layers, and sneak some extras into your carry-on, but it’s best to only pack what you really need. So put down the puffer vest and embrace the minimalist lifestyle — grab your flip-flops and you’re good to go!

Eat and drink local

A farm-to-table and seafood-lovers paradise, the Coffs Coast is jam-packed with some incredible food outlets. So many that we even made a directory for them! By buying lovingly-prepared and locally-sourced meals, you’re not only supporting our small businesses, but you’re also helping to minimise the carbon emissions created by shipping ingredients from far away. Extra points if you can walk to the restaurant instead of driving!

*DO* ‘Do not disturb’

If you’re staying in a traditional hotel, it’s pretty likely they’ll come in to swap your towels, sheets and travel-sized shampoos daily. But this creates a big problem. All that washing uses loads of precious water, cleaning products and electricity. Plus, those tiny travel bottles? They add up to a lot of waste. So when you get into your room, chuck the ‘do not disturb’ sign on the door and ditch the cleaning service until you really need it.

Use reef-friendly sunscreen

We grow up knowing to ‘slip, slop, slap’ and we’re here for it! But when it comes to slopping on your SPF sunscreen, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Our ocean ecosystems are under immense pressure from climate change, overfishing and pollution, including from sunscreens. 97% of sunscreens on the market contain chemicals that are toxic to coral reefs, even at small concentrations. So when summer rolls around, look for sunscreen described as “reef-safe”, “reef-friendly” or “not containing oxybenzone and octinoxate”. They’re not just better for the planet; they’re better for your skin too!

Leave no trace

As well as taking your rubbish with you when you leave a natural space, there are a few things you can do to minimise your impact on the environment. When camping, set up your tent on durable surfaces like gravel or packed soil, rather than disturbing soft and delicate plants. While all campfires will leave some trace on the landscape, if you do need to light one, make sure it’s low-impact. Skippy the kangaroo might look like he’s keen on your cookies but respect the local wildlife by keeping your distance and your food to yourself. Finally, make sure the only souvenirs you take home are from the local shops, not the natural landscape. That means leaving flowers, shells and timber behind.

Travel green

Whether it’s by road or air, there are plenty of ways to travel green. If you’re flying, choose to offset your ticket when you book. Most airlines have a carbon offset scheme, so you’ll just pay a small extra fee on top of the flight cost, which is donated to the scheme. It’s a small price to pay to help the environment! When you get to your destination, opt to walk to get around, and if possible, stay close to attractions to reduce your time on the road.

SO CONNECT DEEPLY, TREAD LIGHTLY, AND ENJOY OUR PLACE OF PLENTY.

The Orara Valley never fails to inspire visitors who venture off the beaten track to immerse themselves in nature. We recommend these experiences…

1. Coramba Nature Reserve

Wander through a rare remnant of native forest. Soak up the feeling of being dwarfed by old-growth trees under a closed canopy, protected and preserved through a regeneration project. Listen out for wompoo fruit doves and catch sight of frogs and potoroos along the river. Cool off in the crystal clear swimming hole near Hartley’s Bridge.

2. National Parks

Explore this hidden gem of Ulidarra and Bindarri National Parks by foot or bring your mountain bike to travel around the vast network of bike trails and walking tracks. Hop in your 4WD and journey to Bindarri where you can watch the waters of the Urumbilum River cascade over the Great Escarpment. There are plenty of swimming holes, walking trails and picnic areas for those who prefer a slow pace.

3. Ride Orara Valley

Experience the beautiful scenery and charming little country villages on this popular motorcycle touring route. Trail bike riders and off-roaders will love getting into the region’s diverse terrain, from sandy fast tracks, dense leafy tracks and some gnarly hills.

Download Ride The Orara Valley Brochure

4. Orara East State Forest

Visit the eco-accredited Bruxner Park Flora Reserve to take your pick of several walking tracks through subtropical rainforest. Here you can look for giant strangler figs and listen for the songs of the fruit doves and bower birds. Dogs are allowed if kept on a leash.

5. Explore Orara Valley

Spend the day meandering through the villages of Karangi, Friday Creek, Coramba, Dairyville, Ulong, Lowanna and Nana Glen. Grab a photo of historical locations, heritage buildings, landscapes, farm animals, flowers and birds. It’s a perfect drive in the countryside and so close to Coffs.

Download the Orara Valley Tourist Trail Map.

Love the outdoors? Here are some of our favourite ideas for experiencing the natural wonders in and around southern beaches…

1. Boambee Creek Reserve

Boambee Creek Reserve is a day-tripper’s dream with its turquoise waters leading to the ocean. Youngsters will love splashing in the shallows or enjoying some playground fun while grown-ups can unwind with a book or float along with the current. If you’re feeling active, bring your standup paddleboard or hire a canoe or kayak. The creek boasts a diversity of bird and marine life so keep your eyes peeled as you drift downstream. For an all-day visit, pack some lunch or buy it from the on-site kiosk. Doggies are welcome if kept on the lead. A small entry fee is payable to bring your car in.

2. Bonville Headland

Walking south along Sawtell’s main beach, you’ll reach beautiful Bonville Headland. With a level grassy area little ones will love, picnic tables and easy parking (if you skipped the walk), this is one of the most accessible spots on the coastline. Do as the locals do. Feast on take-away fish ‘n’ chips while you take in the lovely surrounds of the rock pool, Bonville Pine Creek estuary and Eco-Accredited Bongil Bongil National Park.

3. Surfing the Southern Beaches

The headlands, estuaries and beaches of Sawtell make for diverse surf conditions with a break for all kinds of surfers. At the southern end of the main beach, Sawtell Island has long, rolling waves well-suited to longboarders or beginners. Learn-to-surf lessons often take place here. Experienced surfers will gravitate toward Main Beach and the swell in front of the surf club, or ‘Trapdoors’ at the river mouth at Boambee Headland. In a strong northerly wind ‘Southies’, past the ocean pool at Bonville Headland, is the break of choice of the southern beaches.

4. Mountain Biking

Mountain bikers of all skill levels travel from afar for the twists and turns of our local trails. Bonville’s Pine Creek State Forest is the original mountain biking network of the Coffs Coast, renowned for its family-friendly riding through a rainforest setting. ‘Cows with Guns’ is recommended as a great introductory trail. For the more experienced, the 10km Sawmill Loop will test your skills as you navigate the windy, luge-style single track..

5. Eco- Accredited Bongil Bongil National Park

From the Gumbaynggirr language, Bongil Bongil means “a place where one stays a long time because of the abundance of food”. So it’s no surprise that this region encompasses a rich array of flora and fauna. The bushland and waterways are a haven for wildlife and recreational activities like fishing, mountain biking, walking and paddling (try the 10km paddling route along Pine Creek). Head to Bongil Picnic Area for some serious serenity by the banks of Bonville Creek. Pack a rod and try your luck from the pontoon – or if dry land is more your style, pack your binoculars for koala spotting.

Click here to discover the Complete Guide To The Best Beaches On The Coffs Coast