Things To Do
in Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour is a relaxed coastal city on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, known for its banana plantations, surf beaches and the iconic Big Banana. It sits where subtropical rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean, offering easy access to marine parks, whale and dolphin watching and nearby national parks. The town has a friendly, small-city feel with a mix of family-oriented attractions, cafés, and outdoor activities.
Coffs is an excellent base for exploring both coast and hinterland — from snorkelling offshore reefs to rainforest walks within an hour’s drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Coffs Harbour Jetty, where you can enjoy the fresh morning air and take in the picturesque views of the ocean. Stroll along the historic jetty and visit the nearby Coffs Harbour Regional Museum to learn about the local history. Grab a coffee at one of the charming cafés downtown to fuel up for the day ahead.
Spend your afternoon leisurely exploring Coffs Harbour's vibrant shops and art galleries in the city center. Don't miss a chance to visit the iconic Big Banana Fun Park, where you can indulge in a delicious banana split or participate in fun activities like laser tag or tobogganing. Take a break in the park's lush surroundings, perhaps enjoying a picnic under the tropical trees.
As the sun sets, head to the Coffs Harbour Marina for a delightful seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants. Enjoy the stunning views of the harbor while savoring freshly caught fish or local specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the marina boardwalk, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Kick off your day at the beautiful Park Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the soft sand beneath your feet. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters, taking in the stunning coastal scenery. Don't forget to grab a refreshing smoothie from a nearby kiosk to hydrate as you bask in the morning sunshine.
After a morning of water fun, join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life just off the coast. Swim alongside colorful fish, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two. Afterward, relax on the beach for some well-deserved sunbathing or beach games with friends.
As evening approaches, find a great spot on the beach for a stunning sunset view. Enjoy a casual dinner at one of the beachfront eateries, where you can feast on fish and chips while listening to the gentle sound of waves. Conclude your day with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $6-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-180 |
| 🚗Local bus fare / short taxi | $3-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches, marine park access and excellent outdoor activities
- Mild climate year-round with strong whale-watching season
- Relaxed, family-friendly town with fresh local produce and seafood
- Limited late-night entertainment compared with major cities
- Some attractions and services are seasonal; a car is useful to reach hinterland and remote spots
Places to Visit in Coffs Harbour
Visit one of these nice places.
A short walk from the jetty, this reserve offers dramatic coastal views, sunrise/sunset shots and opportunities to photograph seabirds and migrating whales in season.
Iconic roadside landmark perfect for playful, colourful photos and family shots.
Mist-filled rainforest vistas, waterfalls and panoramic lookout points ideal for landscape and macro photography.
Classic sunrise/sunset compositions with long-jetty leading lines, surfers and reflective sands.
Coastal headlands and beaches provide opportunities to capture oceanic wildlife, reefs and dramatic seascapes.
Food in Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Find daily-caught fish and prawns at harbourfront restaurants and the local fish co-op; simple grilled or pan-seared preparations are popular.
Must-Try!
Often featured on menus as grilled, in pasta or as part of seafood platters; best at seaside eateries and seafood specialists.
Banana bread, banana pancakes or banana-flavoured ice cream are local staples, available at cafés and market stalls, reflecting the region’s banana industry.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held regularly, this market showcases seasonal fruit, vegetables, baked goods and specialty producers — great for breakfast snacks and picnic supplies.
Occasional food trucks and weekend stalls appear in the jetty precinct and foreshore events serving seafood rolls, burgers and coffee.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are laid-back and informal — a friendly greeting and light conversation are common. Use first names and casual salutations like 'Hi' or 'G'day' in everyday interactions.
Acknowledge that you are on the traditional lands of the local Aboriginal people (Gumbaynggirr in this area). Be respectful at cultural sites and follow guidance on interacting with Indigenous heritage.
Observe flags and lifeguard instructions on patrolled beaches and follow signage about rips, marine stingers or protected areas.
Safety
Tipping in Coffs Harbour
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Australia is discretionary and not expected; rounding up, small tips for exceptional service or 10% in upscale restaurants are appreciated but not required.
Card payments (chip and contactless) are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for markets, small stalls or remote areas but most places prefer cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
(Dec–Feb) Warm to hot and humid, great for swimming, surfing and island snorkelling. Protect against strong sun and occasional afternoon storms; marine stingers (jellyfish) can appear in warmer months, so swim between the flags when present.
(Mar–May) Mild, pleasant temperatures and generally drier conditions — ideal for hiking, surfing and visiting markets. Sea conditions remain warm for water activities.
(Jun–Aug) Mild days and cooler nights; excellent for whale watching (humpback migration runs roughly May–November) and clearer skies. Water is cooler but the beaches remain attractive for walks.
(Sep–Nov) Warming temperatures, wildflowers in the hinterland and continued whale migration; a good time for both land and sea-based activities.
Coffs Harbour at Night
Hiking in Coffs Harbour
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short boardwalks, waterfall tracks and the Skywalk provide immersive rainforest experiences and dramatic vistas about an hour’s drive inland.
Coastal rainforest, walking tracks and birdwatching opportunities close to the coastline and estuaries.
Coastal headlands and beaches with scenic cliff-top paths and photography points; some sections are best accessed by boat tours.
Short local hikes and lookouts near the coast offering panoramic views and easy access from town.
Airports
How to reach Coffs Harbour by plane.
Local airport with regular regional flights to Sydney, Brisbane and other east-coast destinations; about 10–15 minutes from the city centre by car.
Approximately 1.5–2 hours south by car; offers additional regional and limited national services — useful if combining trips to Byron Bay.
About 1.5 hours south by road; another regional option with connections to major cities.
Major international hub about 5–6 hours drive (or a short flight) — the main gateway for international visitors connecting to Coffs Harbour.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Coffs Harbour has many families drawn to beaches, schools and community amenities.
A significant retiree population attracted by the climate and lifestyle.
The area is home to Gumbaynggirr people; Aboriginal culture and heritage remain important to the region.
Surge in visitors during school holidays, summer and whale-watching season.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant coastal sport with local surf clubs and consistent breaks for all levels.
Popular team sport in the region with active community clubs and local competitions.
Common weekend community sports with local leagues and playing fields across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coffs Harbour.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafés and restaurants offer vegetarian options (salads, pastas, grain bowls). Farmers’ markets are great for fresh produce if you prefer to self-cater.
Vegan choices are increasingly common at cafés (plant-based burgers, dairy-free desserts), but check menus in advance in smaller establishments.
Gluten-free options are widely available; let staff know your needs as cross-contamination can occur in busy kitchens.