Spending a Day in Coffs Harbour

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by Hertz AU - 28 February 2024

Immerse yourself in a day of enchanting experiences in Coffs Harbour. From local delights in town to adventures along the shoreline, the region offers diverse delights for a day of luxury. Contemplating how to spend your day in Coffs Harbour? Discover our list below of top-tier attractions and establishments to visit while you’re in town for an unforgettable day. 

Morning Bliss 

As the sun begins to rise over the New South Wales north coast, begin your day in Coffs Harbour with a gourmet breakfast at the Urban Espresso Lounge. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and indulge in some delicious local produce in the modern cafe setting. Serving up all-day breakfast, a vegan menu and a range of flavourful juices, smoothies and cold presses, this local haunt has something to delight all tastes. After a satisfying breakfast in town, walk across the esplanade to the iconic Coffs Harbour Jetty. Take a leisurely stroll along the jetty, enjoying the views of Muttonbird Island and the marina - keep an eye out for sea turtles swimming below you! Plus, with bream, trevally, and whiting often found here, anglers are invited to try out some fishing off the jetty. Visiting on a Sunday? Browse boutique fashion stalls and vintage wares at the Harbourside Markets. Embrace the vibrant community atmosphere and bring a picnic blanket to enjoy the live music before setting off on your mid-morning adventure. 

coffs harbour jetty

Coastal Exploration 

After a morning of in-town exploration, it’s time for a scenic drive along the coast in your Hertz rental car. Head to the Coffs Coast Regional Park to explore the lush rainforest and pristine beaches, and stop at lookout points for breathtaking views. To truly experience the coast's scenic beauty, discover the area on foot on a walk or hike. The Woolgoolga Headland Walk is a gentle loop trail offering beautiful vistas and plenty of spots to picnic. Plus, if you’re visiting between May and October, this is one of the best locations in the region for whale-watching. If you’re looking for a longer trek, the Korora to Mutton Bird Island Route blends beach and river views and is highly popular for bird-watching. Once you’ve made your way around the park, unwind with handcrafted spirits and wine at the Woolgoolga Brewing Co. or drive South to Bonville Golf Resort for a round on the renowned greens. Remember to assign a designated driver when visiting bars and breweries on your trip. 

coffs harbour marina

Cultural Delights 

Uplift your day with a visit to the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House, a unique and enchanting experience. Stroll through the tropical rainforest enclosure and admire the colourful butterflies that surround you. Bring your camera along to capture memorable moments in the midst of these captivating creatures and visit the gift shop on your way out to bring home a memento of your time spent here. From here, take a short drive in your Hertz rental car to the Coffs Harbour Marina for an afternoon of shopping. Art galleries and boutique fashion stores line the marina, giving you ocean views while browsing. At Yarrilla Arts and Museum, Gumbaynggirr culture is front of mind, with the Yaamanga Around Here exhibitions showcasing history and identity through film, sculpture, and architecture. Over the road, the National Cartoon Gallery is the only one of its kind in the country, with the largest collection of cartoons on display. Housed in a World War II Air Force Bunker, the unique gallery is well worth a visit during your day in Coffs Harbour. If antiques and vintage items interest you, head to Bella Cosa in Sawtell to explore the expansive collection of fine and decorative arts and collectables including everything from Australian pottery and ceramics to rugs and furniture. 

Evening Elegance 

To end your day in Coffs Harbour, travel to Sawtell for a fine dining experience like no other. With only one chef, every dish that comes out of the kitchen at Taste Restaurant is thoughtfully crafted and delicately presented. Taste offers indoor seating in an intimate setting or picturesque alfresco dining, with irreplicable food as well as an extensive wine list. Remember to assign a designated driver when drinking during your road trip. As your day in Coffs Harbour comes to a close, wander over to Jetty Beach for a sunset stroll and admire the waves crashing against the shore as you reflect on your relaxing holiday.  

 

As you traverse the coastal wonders during your day, from the scenic beauty of Coffs Coast Regional Park to the cultural richness of the Butterfly House and Coffs Harbour Marina, you’ll relish the serenity of a self-guided holiday in your Hertz rental vehicle. A day out exploring the New South Wales North Coast promises coastal bliss and cultural treasures.