Explore the natural wonders of the Coffs Coast: A guide to the best National Parks, reserves and eco-adventures
Nestled between the sparkling Pacific Ocean and the mountains of the Great Dividing Range, the Coffs Coast is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. As New South Wales’ first certified ECO Destination, the region boasts a rich tapestry of National Parks, reserves and wild spaces that offer unforgettable opportunities for bushwalking, coastal hiking, wildlife encounters, and rainforest exploration.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for the best hikes near Coffs Harbour or a family planning an easy nature walk with kids, the Coffs Coast offers something for every type of explorer. From iconic lookouts to tranquil riverside trails, this is one of the most diverse and accessible nature-based destinations in NSW.
Here’s what you can look forward to in our 11 National Parks, 37 State Forests, several Nature Reserves and 84,000 hectares of World Heritage Listed areas – all in our Place of Plenty, on Gumbaynggirr Country.
Bindarri National Park
Bindarri National Park Is A Rugged And Remote Wilderness Area Located Just West Of Coffs Harbour in the Orara Valley hinterland. Known for its cascading waterfalls, crystal clear swimming holes and lush subtropical forest, it’s A Perfect Spot For 4WD Adventures, Mountain Biking And Uncrowded Bushwalking. Bindarri Is Ideal For Those Wanting To Explore The Wild Beauty Of The Hinterland And Connect Deeply With Nature. It’s common not to see another person on your visit, but if you keep your eyes and ears open, you’ll be treated to a vast array of wildlife – lyrebirds, swamp wallabies, pademelons, and more.
Bongil Bongil National Park
Located between Bonville and Sawtell, Bongil Bongil National Park offers a peaceful blend of forest, estuary and beach. It’s a popular place for kayaking, birdwatching and family-friendly bike rides. The park is also home to one of the largest koala populations in NSW – so keep an eye on the trees as you walk! For those who are seeking a slower pace, pack a picnic and enjoy a lazy afternoon under the towering eucalypts at Bongil Picnic Area.
Ulidarra National Park
A lesser-known park just west of the city centre, Ulidarra offers a network of walking trails through towering eucalypt forests and palm-fringed forests – and being close to town makes it an easy and convenient escape into nature. Along with the adjoining Bruxner Park Flora Reserve, Ulidarra supports a large diversity of wildlife, including koalas, masked owls, wompoo fruit doves, dingoes and little bent-wing bats. It’s a quiet, uncrowded spot for bushwalking, hiking, and trail running, off-the-beaten-path picnicking and birdwatching
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Located at the edge of Coffs Harbour’s Jetty precinct, Muttonbird Island (or Giidany Miirlarl) is one of the most iconic and accessible nature experiences on the Coffs Coast. The short, paved walk to the eastern lookout offers stunning ocean views, and, from June to September, a front-row seat to the majestic humpback whale migration. A sacred site for the Gumbaynggirr People, a visit to Giidany Miirlarl is also an invitation to acknowledge and embrace the stories, language and culture of the Traditional Owners of the Coffs Coast. The island is also an important breeding ground for wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds), making it a unique ecological site.
Dorrigo National Park
Only an hour from Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo National Park is part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. It features dramatic escarpments, lush rainforest walks, waterfalls and the popular Skywalk lookout, which offers panoramic views over the Bellingen Valley. It’s one of the most spectacular and accessible rainforest experiences in Australia, perfect for all ages and abilities.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Coffs Coast for nature experiences?
The Coffs Coast is a year-round destination, thanks to its mild subtropical climate. Expect hot, long days in summer, bright days and cold nights in winter and mild temperatures in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.
Spring (September to November) is ideal for bushwalking, wildflowers and birdwatching, while autumn (March to May) offers bold autumn foliage, calm weather and fewer crowds. Winter (June to August) is perfect for longer hikes and whale watching, and summer is best for shaded rainforest trails and early-morning beach walks. Whatever the season, there’s always something to explore outdoors.
Are dogs allowed in National Parks?
Most National Parks in NSW don’t allow dogs to protect native wildlife and habitats. However, some state forests and regional parks do allow dogs on-leash. Check signage or the NSW National Parks website before you go.
Do I need a permit to go bushwalking?
No permits are needed for most day walks or short hikes. If you’re planning to camp, visit remote areas or access 4WD-only tracks, it’s best to check ahead with NSW National Parks or local visitor centres.
Can I take a guided walk or tour?
Yes – several eco-certified operators offer guided bushwalks, wildlife tours, and Aboriginal cultural experiences. Walking with a local guide can give you a deeper understanding of the area’s natural and cultural significance.
Time to plan your next outdoors adventure
Imagine starting your morning on a rainforest trail, sunlight filtering through ancient trees, birds calling overhead. By afternoon, you’re watching whales breach from a headland or cooling off in a quiet swimming hole fed by a mountain stream. On the Coffs Coast, these aren’t bucket-list moments – they’re part of everyday life in one of Australia’s most naturally diverse regions. So whether you’re chasing epic hikes, slow walks with little ones, or time to reconnect with nature, the Coffs Coast invites you to breathe deeply, tread lightly, and explore widely. Check out some of our favourite coastal holiday itineraries and get planning with the free now
