Things to do around Coffs Harbour

Things to Do Around Coffs Harbour: Beaches, Outdoor Fun & Unique Experiences

There are many things to do around Coffs Harbour, a coastal gem on the NSW North Coast. It’s renowned for its iconic Big Banana, a giant monument featuring an amusement park, ice creamery. But the town’s unique geography with its own port and mild climate—makes it an all-seasons destination that attracts tourists year-round. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the stunning mix of beaches, rainforests, and marine parks ensures there’s always something to see and experience..

Known casually as “Coffs,” this town offers a chilled atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax. The presence of Southern Cross University adds a youthful vibe to the area, while the town’s accessibility with direct flights from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Newcastle makes it an easy getaway for visitors from all over Australia.

Endless Activities in Coffs Harbour: Beaches, Wildlife, and Adventure

Coffs Harbour is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It has beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing by the water. For the more adventurous, there’s plenty of opportunity for fishing, diving, reef fishing, or even white water rafting. The nearby Solitary Islands Marine Park is teeming with marine life, making it a must-see for snorkelers and divers.

But the adventure doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. Explore the surrounding dense rainforests and coastal trails that offer sensational views of the ocean and landscapes. The Look At Me Now Headland, a 1.6km walking trail, provides a fabulous bird’s-eye view of the coastline, while also offering a chance to spot the town’s iconic kangaroos. For even more awesome views, visit the Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Coffs Harbour’s coastline, all the way to the mountains.

Nearby Gems: Woolgoolga, Hidden Beaches, and Mullaway

Just a 20-minute drive from Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga is a vibrant cultural hub with an eclectic mix of cafes, multi-cultural restaurants, and Bollywood beach markets. Don’t miss CurryFest, a celebration of the town’s Punjabi Heritage, complete with cultural performances and smoking ceremonies.

Coffs Harbour loves everything “BIG,” and the iconic Big Banana Fun Park is a must-visit for family fun. It boasts the largest Water Park between Sydney and the Gold Coast, complete with thrilling slides and a kids’ Aqua Play area. There’s also a Toboggan Ride with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, a 36-hole Mini-Golf course, ice-skating, a high-tech Laser Tag arena, and a 4D Ride Simulator featuring the latest films. If you’re craving more fun, check out the Escape Rooms or enjoy a relaxed experience at the Go Bananas Fun Zone or World of Bananas Theatre.

You can also visit Steve McEwan’s Reptile World, the Coffs Candy Kitchen, or the Opal Centre. For a more secluded experience, head south to Bongil Beach, one of Australia’s most untouched (and unpatrolled) beaches. With 7km of sweeping sands and the occasional dolphin sighting, it’s the perfect place to unwind in nature. If you’re looking for something even quieter, hop on a $4 bus ride to the seaside town of Mullaway, where you can enjoy pet-friendly beaches, surfing lessons, and the best burgers and chips at the local general store.

How to Get to Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is easily accessible by road or air. It’s about a 5.5-hour drive north from Sydney or a 4-hour, 20-minute drive south from Brisbane. Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, or Newcastle, making it an ideal and convenient destination for travellers from across the country.

Wellness & Pampering around Coffs Harbour

Hair Salons & Hairdressers

• Mindys Salon 44 – Award-winning hair stylist Mindy at 13 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour
• RhiDesign Hairdresser: One stop for all your hair styling needs. 2/360 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW
• Eminay Hair: Mobile hair dresser, Coffs Harbour. Ph 0439 382 446
• Jade Hair Design: Services include Blow Dry, Hair Extensions, Balayage, Children’s Haircut, Curly Haircut, Hair Braiding, Colouring, Treatments and Weaving. Northside Shopping, 73/85 Park Beach Rd, Coffs Harbour
• Pure Hair and Beauty – Salon specialising in both hair and beauty, Woolgoolga
• Luxe Artistry Hair Boutique – Located at 102/100 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour.

Beauty, Spas & Wellness

• Aqua Pool & Spa – Relax and unwind with aquatic spa treatments
• Tranquility Spa Treatment – Located at Pacific Bay Resort, 1 Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour, NSW
• Retreat Day Spa – Indulge in a luxurious day spa experience
• Fig Tree Day Spa – Offering relaxing and rejuvenating treatments
• Endota Spa – Known for its tranquil atmosphere and holistic packages. 61-63 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour, NSW
• Spa Elements Australia – A great place for high-quality spa treatments
• The Treatment Room – A professional spa experience in Coffs Harbour
• Woolgoolga Body Works – Located at 2/5 Market St, Woolgoolga NSW, offering therapeutic treatments
• Beauty on the Promenade – A beauty salon in Coffs Harbour
• London Ivy Beauty – Specializing in lashes, brows, tanning, and cosmetic injectables
• The Good Beautician – Providing a variety of beauty services in Coffs Harbour
• Holistico – Holistic treatments for health and well-being
• HTC Wellness Studio – Providing wellness services in Coffs Harbour
• Just Breathe Wellness Studio – Relaxation and wellness services for body and mind
• Woolgoolga Tai Chi and Qigong – Tai Chi and Qigong classes, call Michael at (02) 6654 840

Yoga & Pilates Studios

• Coffs Yoga Therapy – Therapeutic yoga services
• My Yoga Womens – Yoga tailored specifically for women
• Anna Miley – Yoga and Therapeutics/Mindfulness – Specializes in mindfulness and therapeutic yoga
• Thrive Pilates – Pilates classes focusing on strength and flexibility
• Hara Beyond Movement – A movement studio offering a mix of yoga and wellness
• Mitime Coffs Harbour – Wellness and yoga studio

Health & Fitness Centers

• Genesis Health + Fitness – Fitness center with a variety of workout options
• Beach Bodies 24 hr Health – Located upstairs at Jetty Shopping Centre, Suite 35/361 Harbour Dr
• F45 Training – High-intensity functional group workouts, offering cardio and strength training
• Toys Holistic Health & Wellness – Holistic health services in Coffs Harbour

Explore & Discover Things to do around Coffs Harbour

Family Fun & Adventure

• The Big Banana – Giant Slide, Water Park, Toboggan Ride, Laser Tag, Mini Golf, Ice Skating, and much more!
• Go Bananas Fun Zone – Machines and fun for all ages.
• Big Banana Fun Park Packages – Explore the fun packages available.
• Coffs Harbour Wildlife Sanctuary – The Sanctuary is the only place in Australia where you can experience marine mammals up so close including bottle-nosed dolphins, endangered Australian Sea Lions, Little Blue Penguins, Freshwater Turtles and local Reef Fish. Plus you can see our marine animal and rehabilitation hospital at work. They rescue, rehabilitate and release hundreds of sea turtles every year.
• Treetops Adventure – A thrilling treetop adventure experience.
• Escape Rooms at The Big Banana – New exciting escape room challenges.
• Coffs Candy Kitchen – Treat yourself to some sweet delights.
• Steve McEwan’s Reptile World – Meet fascinating reptiles up close.
• Aloha Shack – Grab a choc-coated banana from the café.
• Precision Helicopters – Helicopter flights over Coffs Harbour and the the Solitary Islands

Nature & Scenic Spots

• Forest Sky Pier – Stunning coastal views from the lookout.
• Coffs Harbour Marina and Yacht Club – Explore the marina and enjoy local dining.
• Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens – Explore 20 hectares of lush gardens and eco-accredited sanctuary.
• Waterfall Way Scenic Drive – A scenic drive passing through rainforests, waterfalls, and national parks.
• Ebor Falls – Beautiful waterfalls along the Waterfall Way.
• Dorrigo National Park – A tropical rainforest experience with stunning views.
• Cathedral Rock National Park – Hike through spectacular scenery.
• Wollomombi Gorge and Falls – See one of the highest waterfall drops in the state.
• Jetty Beach – A popular beach with full amenities.
• Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve – Explore the island’s Aboriginal cultural significance and stunning views.
• Dolphin Marine Conservation Park – Learn about marine life and conservation efforts.
• Billabong Zoo Koala and Wildlife Park – Get up close with Australian wildlife (1 hour from Coffs).
• Solitary Islands Aquarium – Discover the local sea life.
• Scuba Dive with Dive Quest – Explore the underwater world.
• Carobana Confectionery Factory – Satisfy your sweet tooth with handmade sweets.

Cultural & Historical Experiences

• Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours – Immerse yourself in Gumbaynggirr indigenous culture.
• Curryfest – Celebrate Punjabi heritage with food, music, and dance.
• Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery – Visit the new Yarrila Arts and Museum, exploring local history and culture.
• The Clog Barn – Learn about Dutch culture and crafts.

Outdoor & Thrillseekers

• Solitary Islands – Hike, whale watch, dive, snorkel, or swim.
• Look At Me Now Headland – A 1.6 km walk with stunning ocean views.
• Sit Under Waterfalls or Kayak through Emerald Creek – Enjoy a relaxing outdoor experience.
• Red Rock to Sawtell – Explore coastal villages and beaches.
• Archery – Try your hand at archery for something different.
• Coffs Harbour Ground Rush– Free Dive. First-time or repeat skydivers will love the chance to jump out of a plane over Coffs Harbour, landing on a beach beside the Solitary Islands Marine Reserve.

Good Eats around Coffs Harbour

• Latitude 30 – Enjoy oceanfront dining with South Pacific and marina views, featuring locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
• Mana Chita – African and Ethiopian cuisine, offering mild stews, hot curries, and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
• Shearwater Restaurant – Located on the water’s edge of Coffs Creek with scenic views.
• Hungry Bears – Asian fusion restaurant offering a diverse menu in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Sukura Harbour – Authentic Japanese cuisine, with a focus on traditional culture and ingredients.
• Taste of North India – A celebration of North Indian cuisine, with curries and naan bread bursting with flavor.
• Suban Thai – Authentic Thai food with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Bombay Brasserie – Northern Indian cuisine with a focus on aromatic spices and rich flavors.
• CreAsian – A family-run restaurant offering Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes.
• Element Bar – A casual dining spot with live music, perfect for eating, drinking, and relaxing.
• Dark Arts Cafe – Open for breakfast and lunch, or available for private events and functions.
• Hoey Moey – Award-winning bar, restaurant, and function venue with live entertainment, a spacious beer garden, and a renovated bistro.
• Urban Espresso Lounge – Serving “the best coffee in Coffs Harbour” and their menu is all about bringing the best food to your plate with a taste and style you are not used to. Chefs here are forever challenging the norm and creating incredible dishes that can be classic favourites with a twist. They also serve an All Day Breakfast plus a separate lunch menu, and a dedicated Vegan menu with over 15 dishes. 382 Harbour Dr Jetty Strip, Coffs Harbour, NSW

Foodies Around Coffs Harbour: Best Markets, Bakeries & Gourmet

• Peach and Wolf Bakery strive to bake the best possible, long fermented; nutrient dense sourdough and savoury and sweet pastries are a source of pride for this humble bakery. A humble family bakery that’s growing and have big dreams when it comes to sourdough and viennoiseries. The Equinox Building, 29/87 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour NSW
• Twilight Food Market Coffs Harbour: Jetty Foreshores, commences in September through to April each year, from 5pm to 9pm. 
• Coffs Harbour Growers Market is held in the City Square every Thursday between 8:00 am and 2:30 pm. Coffs Coast Growers Market 
• Harbourside Markets are on every Sunday from 8 am to 2pm. Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW
• Bite Food Tours: combine art and culture, and host a bi-annual Coffs Coast Long Lunch which features guest producers as speakers as well as great food. Various locations around Coffs Harbour, NSW
• Coffs Coast Harvest hosts an exceptional collection of suppliers, growers, artisans, butchers, bakers, and other locally owned food businesses on the Mid North Coast. The Burger Bar opens at 5pm, and they can cater and do events.1/13 Ocean Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW
• West High Street Butchery located at 85 W High St, Coffs Harbour
• Savour a Riptide Pizza – takeaway only located in 53 Beach St, Woolgoolga, NSW
• Booshie Box by Jessica Balnave – Pre-order a gourmet Booshie Box for a curated selection of local delicacies, available through @jessicabalnave in Coffs Harbour for a unique food experience. (Contact via Instagram @jessicabalnave

Retail Escapes

• Made With Love Market
• Coffs City Uptown Markets
• The Gift Shop at The Big Banana – The largest banana-themed gift shop in the universe!
• Jetty Village Shopping Centre – 361 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour
• Go Vita Coffs Central is a health food store with a wide range of vitamins and supplements, skin care products, tea and coffee, children’s books and toys, as well as other items. Go Vita Coffs Harbour
• Coffs Harbour Pottery
• The Clog Barn – Unique Dutch souvenirs and craft shopping.
• See where greenery improves the scenery at Nursery
• The Big Banana Gift Shop – The largest collection of banana-themed gifts.
• Red Sparrow Tea Company: Loose leaf tea Australia. Choose from our large range of black, green, herbal, white, iced & oolong teas, teaware and gifts.

Take on the thriving food scene or spend the day browsing the streets, stopping by artisanal shops and quirky galleries. If you’re a thrill seeker, Coffs brings on adventure. Go paragliding over the Pacific Ocean, ride a camel at sunset, or saddle up for a horseback ride along the beach. If you think Coffs Harbour sounds like an amazing holiday destination, check out our Stays with a WOW accommodation.