The Coffs Coast brings you a huge calendar of live music events all across the region – from touring bands and international artists to classical concerts and local performers. There are pub stages and band rooms, small halls, local markets, and entertainment spaces all ready to fill up with appreciative audiences. So plan your next holiday around some beautiful tunes and live music shows.
Start your weekend early with a Thursday evening of funk and jazz. For years locals have flocked to Sawtell’s favourite, The Spare Room, for weekly funk nights. If the smell of their woodfired pizza isn’t enough to lure you in, the sultry notes of a double bass mingling with clinking cocktail shakers will do it.
Follow up with Friday at the Hoey Moey, an iconic seaside pub known for live music in Coffs Harbour. From national touring bands to local legends, there’s something for everyone. Kick back in the Byron-esque beer garden, play a game of pool, and enjoy some of the best live acts in the region.
If you’re visiting between September and mid-April, grab your picnic rug and make your way to the Friday Twilight Food Market at Park Beach Reserve. You’ll enjoy sunset skies over the water as the wafting breeze brings a temptation of smells from the many food trucks to choose from. The whole family (four-legged friends included) will enjoy the evening’s soundtrack – hand-selected local musicians and the sound of waves lapping on the shore.
Over the weekend, laidback loungers will find a thriving cafe and bar scene. Grab your morning pick me up with a side of music at the Dark Arts Cafe brekky sessions before cruising to Jetty Beach House to treat your senses to local crooners performing by the best view in Coffs. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins on the horizon.
Finish up with some bangers and local brew at one of the delightful craft breweries. You’ll find King Tide Brewery down an unsuspecting laneway in the centre of Coffs Harbour, but don’t let the street size fool you – there’s a cutting-edge brewhouse, kitchen and room for you and 250 of your closest mates. If cruisey coastal culture appeals, head north to Woolgoolga to enjoy the scene at Woopi Brewing Co. Relax in the beer garden with a woodfired pizza before testing their award-winning craft beer. With a regular lineup of live music, outdoor cinema nights and a DJ, you’ll be back for more.
Rachmaninov more your style? The Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium – established in 1984 – regularly showcases impressive local and touring string quartets, solo pianists and more.
And if a tree-change is what you’re after, the rolling green hills of the Orara Valley are calling. The Cafe In The Valley hosts local musicians in a gorgeous garden setting every Saturday – they’ve even got a singing chef! Turn your visit into a full day out by stopping at the Ulong Ex-Services Club for live music, a home-style meal or weekly raffles. Finish up at The Coramba Hotel, listening to local talent in a tranquil rural setting.
If you’re lucky enough to be in town when the Festival of Small Halls is happening, you’ll be treated to some of the best folk and contemporary acoustic artists in Australia. They’re plucked straight from the stages of our largest national festivals to perform at tiny halls in regional communities, and the Coramba Town Hall is one not to miss.
Story by Julia Greacen