Captivating Coffs Harbour
Nestled in a unique position in northern New South Wales, Coffs Harbour sits between the majestic Aussie east coast with its unrivalled beaches, and the lush valleys bordering the Great Dividing Range. Which means that for sun, sand and surf (and giant bananas), there is no better place in the country than Coffs Harbour.
Coffs, as the locals call it, is the kind of place where you can do as much or as little as you like. Discover a hidden treasure trove of natural splendour in the Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden, take a boat cruise from the harbour and come across the majestic lighthouse perched atop the rocky outcrop of South Solitary Island, or just chill out as you cruise along the Coffs Harbour coast – beer in hand – on the Spirit of Coffs Harbour.
COFFS HARBOUR’S TOP 10| 10. Dorrigo National Park One of Australia’s most accessible World Heritage-listed rainforests. Take the Wonga Walk down to the Crystal Shower Falls. | 5. Butterfly House Maze Witness the intriguing metamorphosis of the humble butterfly at this unique exhibit, then flutter your way along to the tearoom for an afternoon cappuccino. |
| 9. Diggers Beach Learn to surf or just relax by the waves on this popular beach. | 4. Coffs Coast Camels For something a bit more adventurous than just lazing on the sand, jump on the back of a camel for a gleeful ride down Boambee Beach. |
| 8. Coffs Harbour Regional Museum Be ready to take notes as you learn all about the history of Coffs. | 3. Banana Coast Divers Whether you’re learning to scuba or exploring the underwater depths on your own, the Coffs’ coast is a fantastic place for a dive. |
| 7. National Marine Science Centre’s Aquarium From vibrant clownfish to drifting sea urchins, this aquarium is as aesthetically pleasing as it is educational. | 2. The Clog Barn For Coffs Harbour’s own Dutch village, come and watch bona fide wooden clogs being made by the pros. |
| 6. Pet Porpoise Pool Swim with the dolphins, get kissed by a seal or just feed the little blue penguins at Australia’s most interactive marine park. | 1. The Big Banana It’s been one of Australia’s most famous ‘big’ landmarks for 40 years. Cameras to the ready, people… |
COFFS HARBOUR EVENTS
- Kick back with a drink and watch the regatta at the annual Pittwater to Coffs Yacht Race in early January. To see some local talent in filmmaking, you’ll be reeling at the ShortSharp Film Festival in July.
- Frock up and trot your way over to the racing club for the annual Coffs Cup Carnival in August.
- For a relaxing day of wine and jazz, bebop your way to the Bellingen Jazz Festival each August.
- Take plenty of spare coins to September’s Coffs Harbour International Busker’s Festival.
WHEN TO GO
- Coffs enjoys a humid subtropical climate, which means it’s pretty warm all year round.
- February and March tend to be the wettest months, but are still great times to visit.
- The driest time in Coffs is between July and October, when the sun just keeps shining and the temperatures average a very pleasant 22ºC (72ºF).
Visit our partner page Coffs Harbour hotels by Hotel.com.au
GETTING AROUND
- There are three different bus companies running regular buses through Coffs Harbour.
- Shuttle buses (and plenty of taxis) link the airport to the city.
- The best way to see the sights in the wider region would have to be by car, so rent one and get exploring!
