Things To Do
in Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a beautiful coastal city located in New South Wales, Australia, known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant marine life. It is surrounded by the Great Dividing Range, providing a backdrop of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. The city boasts a friendly atmosphere and a variety of attractions, including the iconic Big Banana, which celebrates the region's banana farming heritage.

Coffs Harbour is a perfect destination for families, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax by the ocean.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coast
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café followed by a visit to Coffs Harbour Jetty and Muttonbird Island for some birdwatching and scenic views.

afternoon
:

Head to Coffs Harbour Beach for some sunbathing or swimming, and enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant.

evening
:

Conclude the day with a sunset walk along the Jetty and dinner at a seafood restaurant, savoring the fresh catch of the day.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast before exploring the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House and the surrounding gardens.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon hiking in the nearby Dorrigo National Park, enjoying the waterfalls and rainforest trails.

evening
:

Return to Coffs Harbour for dinner at a local pub, followed by some live music or a night out at one of the bars in the city.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$4-$5
🍕Takeaway Pizza$15-$25
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$100-$200
🚗Car Rental (per day)$50-$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and beaches.
  • Diverse outdoor activities available.
  • Friendly and welcoming local culture.
  • Can be crowded during peak holiday seasons.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Higher accommodation prices during peak times.

Places to Visit in Coffs Harbour

Visit one of these nice places.

Muttonbird Island

A scenic spot with panoramic views of Coffs Harbour and the ocean, perfect for capturing stunning sunsets.

Coffs Harbour Jetty

An iconic landmark providing picturesque views of the harbor and opportunities for great coastal shots.

Dorrigo National Park

A lush rainforest area featuring waterfalls and rich biodiversity, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its coastal location and agricultural heritage, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Coffs Harbour Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Banana Bread

A moist and flavorful bread made from ripe bananas, often served warm with butter.

Must-Try!

Fresh Seafood

Dishes featuring local catches like prawns, snapper, and calamari, often served grilled or fried.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Coffs Harbour Growers Market

A weekly market offering fresh produce, artisan foods, and local crafts, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Coffs Harbour experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter sees temperatures between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with a wetter season from January to March, making it essential to check the weather before outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Casual Dress Code

Australians typically dress casually; beachwear is acceptable in many places.

Respect for Nature

Take care of the natural environment by not littering and respecting wildlife.

Friendly Greetings

A simple 'G'day' or 'Hello' is common when meeting locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Coffs Harbour is generally safe for visitors, but it's wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Swimming in designated areas with lifeguards is recommended, and caution should be exercised with wildlife, particularly snakes and jellyfish. Always follow local safety guidelines when hiking or engaging in water sports.

Tipping in Coffs Harbour

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. Cash is less frequently used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm temperatures make it perfect for beach activities, but expect larger crowds.

Autumn

Milder weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful foliage make it a great time for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Cooler temperatures are ideal for exploring the rainforest and wildlife, with pleasant sunny days.

Spring

A vibrant season with blooming flowers and a variety of events; perfect for outdoor festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Coffs Harbour at Night

Coffs Harbour's nightlife is vibrant but laid-back, with a mix of bars, pubs, and live music venues. Many places host events like open mic nights and live performances, creating a friendly and social atmosphere. The Jetty area is particularly popular for a night out, offering seaside views and a variety of dining options that transition into lively bars as the evening progresses.

Hiking in Coffs Harbour

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dorrigo Rainforest Walk

A beautiful trail through lush rainforest with stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Gumgali Track

An easy walk along the coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views and the chance to spot marine life.

Airports

How to reach Coffs Harbour by plane.

Coffs Harbour Airport

Located about 5 km from the city center, it offers domestic flights connecting to major Australian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Coffs Harbour is quite walkable, especially around the Jetty area and the beach. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the city on foot. Pedestrian paths and well-maintained sidewalks enhance walkability, although some areas may require transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Coffs Harbour is a family-friendly destination with activities and attractions suitable for all ages.

Retirees

The region attracts retirees for its pleasant climate and relaxed lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

A major sport in Coffs Harbour, with many beaches suited for surfers of all levels.

Cricket

A popular sport among locals, with many community clubs and events throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Coffs Harbour is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city. Public transportation options include buses that connect various parts of the city, though services may be limited outside peak hours. Cycling is also popular, and many roads have bike lanes or paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coffs Harbour.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with some specializing in plant-based cuisine.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring a variety of choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Coffs Harbour is good, with several medical centers and hospitals available. The Coffs Harbour Health Campus is the main public hospital, offering a range of services. In case of emergencies, dial 000 for immediate assistance. Travelers should ensure they have appropriate health insurance for their trip.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide