Coffs Harbour is on the New South Wales North Coast and is a prime destination with many activities and things to do.This beautiful city offers something for everybody with sandy beaches, pristine rainforests, and an exciting culture. For those who may want to rest on the golden sand, take nature walks or bike rides or look at iconic places, namely the Big Banana, the Coffs Harbour has it all. Check out the water sports for the adrenaline rush, learn about the wildlife, or have fun with your family. The guide will thus assist you to discover more about other cool things to do in Coffs Harbour and thus make the best of your time in this great and vibrant city.
Top 6 Exciting Things To Do In Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour’s attractions and things to do cover all tourist interest points. Such attractions include beautiful beaches, rain forests and landmarks of the colourful city that will offer you a memorable experience. Discover the most popular tourist attractions to get the most out of your Coffs Harbour vacation.
1. The Big Banana Fun Park
Image Credit: David Floyd for Pexels
Originally developed as a banana plantation in 1964, it has become one of the most effective and active amusement parks, providing services for all age groups. For those interested in history, the banana plantation can be visited for a tour; for some water activities, the water park is also available, and people can also perfect their golf skills on the 36-hole mini–gol course. Adventurous spirits will enjoy going down the massive Toboggan Ride, gliding on the year-round indoor ice skating, and battling it out in laser tag matches. The place has a café where one can enjoy banana-flavoured foods and merchandise sold in a gift shop to make it known as The Big Banana Fun Park. It is perfect for tourists looking for a day full of enjoyment for the whole family.
Point To Be Noted: Buy your tickets online for discounts and to avoid those long queues.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Also Read: Museums In Australia
2. North Coast Regional Botanic Garden
Image Credit: Christopher Wood for Wikimedia Commons
Extending over 20 hectares of land, this garden has been very well maintained, and it is home to a wide variety of Australian native plants, many of which have been identified as prone to extinction. Every visitor can enjoy numerous walking trails that spread through themes like the rainforest, heathland, and wetland. It also has programs that educate visitors about native plants and various means of conserving them, besides including beautiful and quiet areas for picnicking. Thus, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden is an excellent place for those fond of nature and families who want to spend a splendid time.
Point to be noted: Avoid touching or plucking the plants, as it helps keep the garden’s biodiversity.
Duration: 2-4 hours
3. Park Beach
Image Credit: Colin Babb for Pexels
Park Beach is a picturesque beach with an orange sandy shoreline and gentle waves that are perfect for water activities. A large area suitable for swimming, playing on the sand, and surfing, this beach has a lifeguard service for safety. The parkland areas are ideal for picnicking where barbecues are available and trees shelter some areas. There are nice coastline views for strolls and bike riding activities within the nearby coastal walk or cycle paths. Park Beach is relatively convenient, surrounded by cafes, shops, and other facilities, making it a perfectly enjoyable place.
Point to be noted: It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before going to the beach.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Related Post: Theme Parks in Australia
4. Harbourside Market
Image Credit: Colin Babb for Wikimedia Commons
The Harbourside Market, conducted every Sunday at Jetty Foreshores in Coffs Harbour, is a colourful and highly spirited affair that encapsulates the region’s ethos and spirit. Visitors can purchase products ranging from locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables to handicrafts and products from local artisans. The market also provides a diverse range of food and drinks from street stalls for anyone who wants a quick bite. Located at the beautiful marina of Coffs Harbour, the Harbourside Market is the perfect venue to taste local food and drinks, shop for small local producers, and have a wonderful day.
Point to be noted: The market usually takes place every Sunday, starting bright and early in the morning and wrapping up by the early afternoon.
Duration: 1-2 hours
5. The Clog Barn
Image Credit: Kgbo for Wikimedia Commons
Clog Barn in Coffs Harbour is a perfect place to see the touch of Dutch country; collections of miniature Dutch villages, complete with working windmills and flowing canals, and clog-making demonstrations by the Dutch masters and their contemporaries. The guests may taste Dutch pie and light, reliable dishes in the restaurant, which is an actual Dutch café, and souvenir articles can be purchased in the specialized shop. It also has facilities such as a caravan park where tourists can spend a night or more and newly built self-contained units. If one is interested in the Dutch tradition or just seeking to spend a good time with family, The Clog Barn is exactly what people want to visit.
Point to be noted: Demonstrations happen at certain times during the day, so it’s a good idea to peek at the schedule so you won’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Related Post: Winter in Australia
6. The National Cartoon Gallery
Image Credit: Binarysequence for Wikimedia Commons
The National Cartoon Gallery in Coffs Harbour is a fairly interesting and playful venue located in a former World War II bunker. Beyond a simple ‘cartoon’ gallery, it accommodates many cartoons and comic art pieces from Australians and other world artists. The public can study permanently rotating exhibitions of different thematic and stylistic features, starting with political satire and ending with comic strips. The gallery also conducts sessions and other related activities for children and young people, enlightening them on cartooning. Having a cartoon store with prints and books and a café for light meals and beverages, the National Cartoon Gallery is a place one should not miss when it comes to cartoon artistry.
Point to be noted: Check their website for entry fees to visit the gallery
Duration: 1-2 hours
Further Read: Paragliding In Australia
Coffs Harbour is a popular tourist destination in New South Wales. It offers numerous activities. From pristine shores and exotic tropical foliage to majestic landmarks such as Clog Barn and the National Cartoon Gallery, there is something to intrigue everyone. Do not wait any longer to pack your bags; book your trip to Australia and live new adventures in this beautiful coastal destination.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Tatiana Gerus for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Coffs Harbour
What is the recommended season to travel to Coffs Harbour?
The best time to visit is either in spring or in autumn when the climate is fairly good with not much precipitation. Summer is perfect for surfing but most beaches are hot and crowded during this season. Winter is slightly colder compared to the previous seasons but is also a good time for travelling and outdoor activities.
What are the best restaurants in Coffs Harbour?
For a gourmet meal, the Pacific Bay Resort restaurant offers fine dining to its guests. At the same time, those wanting an assorted culinary selection can go to Jetty Strip which has various restaurants serving delectable seafood and other dishes.
What local cultural activities can one enjoy in Coffs Harbour?
Try the Coffs Harbour International Buskers and Comedy Festival to view the variety of actors and comedians. The Coffs Harbour Show is another annual event that displays and sells locally-produced foodstuffs, livestock, and entertainment.
What are the places that can be visited at night in Coffs Harbour?
Go for a night out in the styled pubs and bars such as the Coffs Hotel or the Pier Hotel. For genuine performances and vibrant venues, try looking up the local events calendars and check out if any band or nightlife event is lined up for the week.
Is there any brewery or wine company in Coffs Harbour?
Yes, there is the place by the name Coffs Coast Brewing Co. where they produce locally brewed craft beers. However, for wine lovers, there are a few wine establishments in the nearby Bellingen region that could be of interest.
People Also Read:
Things To Do In Paris Things To Do In Berlin Things To Do In Barcelona
