Nestled on the idyllic north coast of New South Wales, Coffs Harbour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and unique attractions that make it the ideal place for a relaxing coastal escape. Surrounded by pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and the majestic Great Dividing Range, this charming coastal town is the perfect base for exploring the subtropical surroundings of this breathtaking region. So much more than just a stopover town, it’s time to pack your bags, as we explore all that Coffs Harbour has to offer.
Discover NSW’s best kept secret
After picking up your Hertz rental car, head down to the esplanade and Coffs Harbour Jetty to get yourself acquainted with this city by the sea. Grab yourself a coffee from Urban Espresso Lounge to accompany you on a leisurely stroll along the 700m, heritage listed wooden jetty. From here, follow the marina foreshore all the way around to Muttonbird Island for breathtaking views of the Solitary Islands - an absolute must-do on any Coffs itinerary and the perfect way to start your visit. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot whales and dolphins from the top of the island, so keep an eye out for these majestic creatures frolicking around in the turquoise waters beneath you.
After exploring the marina precinct, find a spot on the sand for a day in the sun. Coffs Harbour is home to a selection of pristine, golden beaches - some of the best in Australia, so whether you’re up for a refreshing ocean swim, catching the perfect wave, or fancy a spin at stand-up paddle boarding, you’ll be spoilt for choice here. After a dip? There are excellent swimming spots at Jetty Beach, Park Beach, and the region’s northern Beaches, all easily accessible in your Hertz rental car. Surfers will find the best breaks at Emerald Beach and Sawtell Beach while first-timers will be able to partake in their very own Coffs Coast surfing experience with Solitary Islands Surf School - the best in the business - for a truly unique experience that you won’t be forgetting any time soon.
Beyond the beautiful beaches, the city is also home to a thriving arts, culture, and culinary scene just waiting to be discovered. Coffs is home to vibrant street art trails, excellent galleries, and markets throughout the town. You’ll find the very best of the region on display at the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, set to reopen in a brand new, purpose-built space in late 2023.
Travelling with a foodie? There’s plenty to savour and appreciate with the region’s top notch culinary scene. The Coffs Coast is home to some of the highest quality produce in Australia, and has become attractive to passionate chefs, cooks, and artisan producers over the years. The food and drink scene in Coffs is well and truly taking off, and you’ll find everything here from world-class breweries and distilleries to fine dining experiences, growers’ markets, and award-winning local seafood. Nowhere showcases the Coffs foodie scene better than Latitude 30, located right on the marina. With a menu showcasing the region’s freshest seafood, as well as juicy, locally sourced steaks and an excellent wine selection, Latitude 30 is one to have on your must-try list.
More than just beautiful beaches
The absolute best way to experience the beauty and tranquillity of the Coffs Coast is by leaving town and hitting the open road for a journey of discovery. While you’re visiting, jump in your Hertz rental car and take yourself on a self-drive tour of the region, where you’ll be greeted by gorgeous views in every direction. Start your journey with a short and picturesque drive through banana plantations up to Forest Sky Pier. This stunning suspended walkway and lookout is perched high above the rainforest, offering sweeping views of the valley below, across the entire Coffs Coast. To the north, the coastal towns of Sapphire Beach, Emerald Beach and Woolgoolga each offer something unique and special, so spend some time exploring the coastline to discover a different side to Coffs Harbour. One of the local favourites is Look At Me Now Headland, a beautiful grassy headland which is home to a friendly bunch of Eastern Greys kangaroos.
If you’re looking to adventure a little further, you’ll find one of Australia’s best road trips just a stone’s throw away from the city. Waterfall Way is a 185-kilometre road trip between Coffs Harbour and Armidale, climbing up over the Great Dividing Range in spectacular fashion. Starting just south of the city, this scenic drive will see you meandering past quaint rural villages, lush rainforests, dramatic mountains, and picturesque rivers. Stop in at Bellingen for a dip in the Bellingen River and a stroll along the main street. Next up, Dorrigo is where you’ll find an abundance of stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest walks. No matter how you decide to do Waterfall Way, it is a highlight of the region you don’t want to miss.
There is so much more to Coffs Harbour beyond the Big Banana - whether you're seeking seaside relaxation, outdoor adventures, or epicurean delights, this vibrant coastal town has it all. So, hop in your Hertz Rental and discover one of the most diverse destinations in New South Wales, with something to offer for everyone.
