Coffs Coast: the place of plenty for all

Blessed with an abundance of natural resources, there’s something for every kind of traveller on the Coffs Coast.

‘Giinagay’ and welcome to Gumbaynggirr Country , the bountiful land of its traditional owners, the Gumbaynggirr people.

Known by many as the Coffs Coast (and by some as ‘that place where the mountains meet the sea’), the region always was and always will be a place of plenty for everyone – the Gumbaynggirr people welcoming visitors by delving into their rich past as the ‘sharing people’.

This isn’t anything new of course: the pristine rivers, plentiful oceans and fertile forests of their country have always provided the Gumbaynggirr people with such an abundance that a willingness to enjoy with other Indigenous nations has long been a way of life.

Fishing, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — While we associate Coffs Harbour with a modern trawler fleet, it has been the place of plenty for thousands of years.

Home to a wealth of national parks and state forests, as well as a thriving marine park, the ‘sharing is caring’ ethos is protected, too.

Emerald Beach, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — The legendary residents of Look At Me Now Headland on the Coffs Coast.

The Coffs Coast is committed to providing a significant number of sustainable nature-based tourism experiences, helping Coffs Harbour become NSW’s first destination to become accredited under the ECO Destinations Certification. It’s a way of operating that highlights the care taken for the region’s spaces and culture. Yes, not only does this mean the Coffs Coast will remain a place of plenty for generations to come, the region offers a wealth of experiences for every traveller, from families and young couples to silver adventurers.

Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours, NSW Australia — Stand up paddle boarding through the mangroves on Moonee Creek with Wajaana Yaam is one of the new highlights of the Coffs Coast.

Here’s a little taste of what’s on offer…

For families

For adventure lovers

For spirited explorers

Family Escapades on the Coffs Coast

Family, Beach Park, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — Generations of families have discovered the Coffs Coast is a place of plenty.

No Australian childhood is complete without a visit to The Big Banana Fun Park, but Coffs Harbour with its endless golden sand beaches and nature-based activities, offers so much more for families.

Dolphine Marine Conservation Park, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — Support Marine life and learn more about rescuing and rehabilitating at Dolphin Marine Conservation.

The first port of call? Dolphin Marine Conservation Park , where a host of dolphins and seals (as well as a supporting cast of penguins, turtles and more) are keen to share tales of rehabilitation and conservation. During school holidays, kids aged eight to 16 can even sign up to be a Marine Animal Carer.

Montem Bike Tours, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia — The Coffs Harbour jetty is one of many cycling paths in the region.

The human residents are just as friendly, of course, and an excellent way to meet them (and make the most of Coffs Harbour’s magnificent coastline) is with a Montem Bike Tours around the Jetty foreshore. A range of leisurely rides are on offer suitable for all abilities.

For a splash of adventure TreeTops Adventure Park is serving up a healthy dose of magnificent gum trees as you navigate your way through the towering treetops on this self-guided rope course.

TreeTop Adventure Park, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — Invite your friends and get ready for some physical and intellectual and yet exciting adventure at TreeTop.

The Big Banana, Coffs Harbour, NSW — The Big Banana Fun Park offer so many amazing rides, slides and waterslides.

You’ll have a whole bunch of fun at the Big Banana Fun Park – enjoy amazing rides, slides and waterslides plus other exciting activities like mini-golf, laser tag, toboggan rides and more. Grab a choc-coated banana or a famous banana split!

And make sure you grab a selfie with Australia’s favourite ‘big thing’.

Accommodation: Check out Coffs Coast Holiday Parks comprising four award-winning, waterfront holiday parks dotted around the region. From villas to camping, waterparks to kids’ clubs, every need (and want) is catered for.

Adventure together on the Coffs Coast

Whether you’re dreaming about a romantic hike, an exhilarating climb or a leisurely swim, there’s no better place to get your thrills (and spend quality time with your partner) than on the Coffs Coast.

Surf, North Wall Marina Drive, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — Learn how to surf on some of the best beaches in NSW on the Coffs Coast.

Get to know the region’s riches of native animals, rainforests and waterways with a Waves to Wilderness tour. Essentially serving as a ‘top hits’ of Coffs, tours include a selection of experiences such as guided walks, kayaking, surfing and gourmet grazing.

C Change Adventure, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — No experience is required for kayaking or canoeing, just simply have fun as safety equipment will be provided.

Keen to continue that aquatic focus? C Change Adventures not only offers a range of canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddelboarding experiences, the adrenaline junkies among us can opt for a whitewater or sea kayaking experience (often complete with dolphins frolicking alongside).

Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — A stand up paddle board tour of Red Rock, Moonee and Coffs Creek with local indigenous guides from Wajaana Yaam takes you into the local landscape and culture like never before.

Of course, if you want to experience cultural eco-tourism at its finest, Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours welcomes those keen to connect with land and sea by paddleboarding with the direct descendants of the world’s first paddleboarders. Choose your own adventure at Red Rock, Moonee Beach or Coffs Creek.

Ready to dive in? Jetty Dive offers a range of adventures around the region, from whale watching and diving, to its popular snorkel trips out to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, a sanctuary of underwater wonders.

Solitary Island, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — Solitary Islands is one of the best dive sites in NSW.

Side note? Coffs Harbour has been assessed by the CSIRO as having the best climate in Australia so you can look forward to perfect subtropical weather, no matter the activity.

Observatory, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — A living room with a view at the Observatory Holiday Apartments, Coffs Harbour.

Accommodation: Stay in style at Observatory Holiday Apartments . Located right by the heart of the action, the self-contained one- two- and three-bedroom apartments all take advantage of the spectacular foreshore.

Spirited Explorer: relaxing on the Coffs Coast

Looking for inspiration and ready for fun? Coffs Harbour – home to significant Gumbaynggirr Indigenous cultural sites, spectacular food and drink offerings, and some truly exquisite flora and fauna experiences – is all about living your best life in a manner befitting the region.

Critters Distillery, Coffs Coast, NSW Australia — Critters Distillery tours offer award winning vodka crafted on site which is perfect way to spend the afternoon with friends.

Get in the spirit (literally) by dropping into Critters Distillery and signing up for the Critters Distillery Experience, an artisan vodka tour that pairs sustainability education with a range of specifically crafted vodka cocktail samples and an antipasto grazing plate.

National Cartoon Gallery, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — A one of a kind gallery in Australia as it is known as the spiritual home of cartooning, inspire to entertain exhibitions and workshops.

Housed in a Second World War bunker, The National Cartoon Gallery is known as the spiritual home of cartooning in Australia and exhibitions include the Bill Leak Exhibition and Bald Archy Prize.

Bite Food Tours, Coffs Harbour, NSW Australia — Stroll Coffs City Centre and discover where the locals eat.

The cherry on top? A CBD ‘eat and walk’ session with Bite Food Tours which includes sweet and savoury bites around town, including dessert at an American-style diner.

Adding wine, beer (or an evening of live music and dance) into the mix is easy; simply make a booking at Element Bar , a lively venue located on the popular Jetty strip. It’s as famous for its bands (Friday and Saturday nights as well as the Stone & Wood Sunday sessions) as it is for its varied menu.

For local Indigenous experience, an invitation to connect with the Gumbaynggirr culture presents itself in the form of a Bush Tucker & Medicine Tour courtesy of Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre .

Taking place in the lush, coastal heath and wetlands, the classroom is every bit as intoxicating as the lesson itself.

Aerial, Pacific Marina Luxury Apartments, Coffs Coast, NSW Australia — Pacific Marina Luxury Apartments offer a birdseye view of Coffs Harbour Marina and Muttonbird Island.

Accommodation: Located within the heart of the Coffs Harbour Jetty Precinct, Pacific Marina Apartments offers a range of spacious, one- two- and three-bedroom apartments within a stone’s throw of some of Coffs Harbour’s best beaches and restaurants.

For further information on a Coffs Harbour holiday, visit Coffs Coast .

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

Coffs Coast: the place of plenty for all

Blessed with an abundance of natural resources, there’s something for every kind of traveller on the Coffs Coast.

Family Escapades on the Coffs Coast

Adventure together on the Coffs Coast

Spirited Explorer: relaxing on the Coffs Coast

For further information on a Coffs Harbour holiday, visit Coffs Coast .

The amazing homegrown cafes in Coffs Harbour you will love

Coastal classics: top pubs in and around Coffs Harbour

The best Coffs Harbour restaurants for elevated holiday dining

Things to do in Coffs Harbour: Swimming with whales, the Big Banana and contemporary art

Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Central Coast oyster experiences

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

Organic dining

Paddock-to-plate dining