Coffs Harbour

At the heart of the spectacular Coffs Coast, Coffs Harbour is a wonderful destination for family holidays and memorable adventures. From bushwalking and whale watching to the iconic Big Banana, stunning beaches, a marine sanctuary and more, this beachside city is full of attractions.

Outdoor adventures

Relax on gorgeous beaches like Jetty Beach and enjoy spectacular views at Sealy Lookout. The wheelchair-accessible platform extends out over emerald rainforest escarpment. The vistas from Muttonbird Island are breathtaking. The harbour breakwater bridges the nature reserve where wedge-tailed shearwaters nest.

With views of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, the Eastern Side lookout on the island is a top vantage point for whale watching. Explore underwater worlds with Jetty Dive or cruise to see whales between May and November. Coffs Harbour is also one of the only places in the world where you can swim with humpback whales.

On the Gumgali Track you’ll learn the Dreamtime creation story of Gumgali the black goanna. In the local Gumbaynggir Aboriginal language, the sacred island is called Giidany Miirlarl after a Dreaming story about the moon being its guardian. Discover more on a stand-up paddle board tour with Wajaana Yaam Gumbayanggir Adventure Tours.

Family fun

Feed penguins at the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park, marvel at colourful clownfish at the Solitary Islands Aquarium and walk among hundreds of fluttering butterflies in the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House.  The green hillsides around the city are the perfect backdrop for the Big Banana, and kids will love the Big Banana Fun Park.

Eat and drink

The bustling Harbourside Market is held in the reserve every Sunday. Along the Jetty Strip you’ll find delicious restaurants and cafes. Pop into the retail fish shop of the Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-operative for the daily catch. Check out the calendar for more markets as well as festivals, exhibitions and sports events.

Getting there and where to stay

Coffs Harbour is a 5hr 40min drive north of Sydney and just over four hours' drive from Brisbane. You can make this a memorable stop on a road trip, as you explore the spectacular NSW North Coast. Direct flights operate from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to Coffs Harbour airport. You can also catch the train from Sydney and the journey takes around nine hours.

You'll find plenty of accommodation options, from beach houses to beachside resorts as well as pet-friendly bed and breakfasts. There are many coastal and hinterland getaway options, from executive suites to family rooms and self-contained apartments.