Steer Away From The Harbour To Uncover Coffs Coast Villages

Untapped foodie experiences and magical hinterland hamlets breathe new life into holidaying on NSW’s Coffs Coast.

There’s nothing undiscovered about the holiday magnet that is Coffs Harbour. But during a recent journey beyond its intoxicating jetty life and into the Coffs Coast’s Orara Valley, I found a huddle of hinterland townships, hipster-cool craft breweries and distilleries, knock-out meals and untouched oceanfront and hinterland splendour.

Add my seven favourite lesser-experienced Coffs Coast locales to your NSW North Coast itinerary for delightful exploration off the beaten track.

In short

If you only visit one Coffs Coast town outside of Coffs Harbour, make it Woolgoolga for its burgeoning craft sips scene and tight-knit community spirit.

1. Sawtell

a Sawtell beach in Coffs Harbour — Hit up the surf scene at the Sawtell beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

I drive 15 minutes south of Coffs Harbour to reacquaint myself with Sawtell, home to one of the prettiest natural rock pools in the state. It’s been far too long between visits, and the beach town is buzzing with plenty more than Sawtell Beach frolicking.

outdoor dining at Morty's Joint, Coffs Coast — Head to Morty’s Joint for chilled comfort food haunts. (Image: Jay Black)

First Avenue, Sawtell’s main stretch, is the place to be as the likes of Morty’s Joint nails American-style comfort food over a round of pool; Lime Mexican rolls out authentic plates alongside a menu of tequila, mezcal, sangria and cocktails; Bello e Buono is an unmissable Italian deli and cafe dishing up fresh-baked focaccia, cannoli, cantucci biscuits, and al dente pasta; The Spare Room mirrors that delicious Italian fare with equal finesse; and the Sawtell Hotel is a go-to for easy pub classics.

drinks at Bar Que Sera, Coffs Coast — Pop into Bar Que Sera for a vino. (Image: Jay Black)

I also love Bar Que Sera for a post-dip vino as aperitivo runs from 3pm to 5pm daily. If you’ve got the time, catch a flick at the art-deco Sawtell Cinema (you won’t miss its red double-brick facade and vintage signage) which was originally built in 1956 but runs today’s new releases in style.

2. Woolgoolga

Indian dancers at the annual Woolgoolga Curryfest — The annual Woolgoolga Curryfest celebrates local Punjabi heritage. (Image: Destination NSW)

I learn quickly that Woolgoolga, located 20 minutes north of Coffs Harbour, is best known as Woopi for reasons spanning its traditional custodian roots and historical mispronunciation – proud locals love to share their back story wherever you venture in this charming spot. While its scenic trails, water activity and brewery scene are a real hook, there’s also the annual Woolgoolga Curryfest , a three-day multicultural extravaganza of Punjabi energy, which pulls thick street crowds and the most indulgent of feasts.

sunset brews at Woolgoolga Brewing Co. — Imbibe relaxed drinks at sunset. (Image: Woolgoolga Brewing Co.)

If you’re in town for Woopi’s crafty creations, motor to the industrial precinct right off the Pacific Highway for Woolgoolga Brewing Co. , a homely shed and sloping lawn filled with live music and great vibes. Within a short walk, there’s also Critters Distillery , which has won awards for its gin and vodka, and Mogul Beer for small-batch brews and extremely cool merch. Feeling adventurous? The Falls Walking Track from Woolgoolga Creek picnic area calls, as does the Woolgoolga Whale Trail’s 1.8-metre wide footpath and boardwalk collective that starts from Woolgoolga Beach Reserve. Reward your steps with a feed at Daikichi Woolgoolga , which opened in September 2025, as fresh-rolled sushi and further Japanese favourites hit the spot.

3. Glenreagh

the scenic Orara Valley Tourist Trail, Coffs Coast — Loop the scenic Orara Valley Tourist Trail, just a half-hour drive from Coffs Harbour.

I absolutely love the historical town of Glenreagh, along the Orara Valley Tourist Trail . Located just off Orara Way at the northern end near Grafton, it’s home to one of the lesser-discovered Big Things in Australia – the Big Golden Dog. Found at The Golden Dog Hotel , the four-metre-tall, six-metre-long pup, expertly constructed by one of the team who delivered the Big Banana, reels my family and me in for a selfie session.

the exterior of Glenreagh Bakery, Coffs Coast — Stop by Glenreagh Bakery for takeaway pastries.

The town is tiny so I hop across the road to Glenreagh Bakery to choose from shockingly delicious treats including pudgy, glossy focaccia topped with roasted veg and herbs, crunchy cruffins, award-winning pies, and my favourites when I drop in: the Jalapeno Turkish bread and the corned beef and dill pickle puff, both of which I devour far too quickly. Elsewhere in Glenreagh, there’s the Glenreagh Memorial Museum to transport you back in time, and you can soak up the scenery on the back of a horse thanks to the Abbotsford Park Riding Centre .

4. Ulong

Ulong General Store & Cafe in the Valley, Coffs Coast — Sip on espresso at one of the al fresco tables in Ulong General Store & Cafe in the Valley.

Rolling green hills, geese-freckled farm scapes and one exceptional beer garden – Ulong is gasp-worthy, leading me to stop the car for another impromptu family photo shoot when I enter via its winding roads. I venture just off Orara Way, along the snaking Eastern Dorrigo Way, to find it, but once I’m there, unwinding is easy. I head to Pine Avenue to find the Ulong General Store and Cafe in the Valley for a coffee, before stumbling upon my Ulong highlight – the Ulong Ex-Services Club beer garden. Established in 1956 and featuring the most jaw-dropping countryside views, it’s the ultimate spot for lunch or sundowners. I highly recommend grabbing a seat on the deck or a picnic table on the grass under the umbrellas as both options offer storybook scenery. Additionally, there’s an undercover playground for the kids. Nearby, don’t miss Lowanna, an even smaller Coffs Coast township, that’s near the Little Nymboida River. It’s great for gentle swimming, kayaking and paddling.

5. Nana Glen

inside Idle In Cafe, Nana Glen, Coffs Coast — The rustic but quirky Idle In Cafe.

I recognise the name as Russell Crowe’s home away from Hollywood and discover its allure between attempts at spotting his Coffs Coast acreage. Located within the Orara Valley along Orara Way, Nana Glen is a charming horse-dotted town that attracts visitors for the quirky Idle In Cafe ’s strong cuppas, fluffy homemade scones and delicious all-day breakfast. Take a seat in the cosy courtyard and don’t leave without sussing out whatever peak local produce they’re selling on the day. Nana Glen also houses Coffs Harbour Camping & Farmstay , some of the best camping in Coffs Harbour, which sits on a beautiful 230-acre property with a lake. Meanwhile, aimless wandering throughout Nana Glen will offer fresh country air and picturesque farm scenes (think cows dipping their hooves into trickling creeks, as spotted first-hand) straight out of fairy tales.

6. Coramba

pub grub at Coramba Hotel, Coffs Coast — Grab a feed at the Coramba Hotel.

It’s the hinterland but don’t forget your cozzies. Coramba in the Orara Valley offers direct access to the soothing Orara River via Martin Street. I love it for easy swims before grabbing a feed at the Coramba Hotel , home to yet another perfect beer garden overlooking tree-lined mountains and farmland. I also recommend a stroll along Coramba Nature Reserve ’s subtropical rainforest walk for fascinating birdwatching and ancient greenery.

7. Sapphire Beach

the Sapphire Beach, Co!s Coast from above — The secluded yet stunning Sapphire Beach for your holiday dreams. (Image: Destination NSW)

The quiet beach suburb is a must-visit for its glittering vantage point – arguably my favourite along the entire Coffs Coast. I stroll the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk for a stream of photo-perfect moments that sweep in dramatic headlands, untouched stretches of sand and vast ocean. I sadly miss the majestic mammals when I’m there, but I’m told by fellow walkers that whale season (between June and November) brings on effortless sightings. While you’ve got your boots on, consider the White Bluff Walking Track from the southern end of Sapphire Beach for more uninterrupted ocean ogling.

Whales breaching, fires crackling and slow-cooked feasts that make the cold so cosy, one might wish it lasted longer. Winter is no time to stay at home in NSW.

When the mercury drops, winter in NSW comes into its own. Beaches are quieter, the air is crisper and hearty food tastes even better when there’s ice on the windows.

Winter here isn’t for hiding away. It’s for long walks, deep baths, deeper reds and the kind of fireside lounging that feels simultaneously indulgent and entirely deserved after a day of exploring. From whale-watching up north to moodily lit bushwalks and pastry pilgrimages, we’ve mapped out your new favourite season.

a beach winter in nsw — From coastal walks to tasty delights, winter in NSW is a time to get out and about.

The Tweed

In winter, the NSW north coast has a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest migrations. From May to November, humpbacks cruise past the Tweed coast between Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef. Spot them from the Cabarita Beach headland or get up closer with a boat cruise.

Inland, find the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre , which is home to a rotating cast of big-name exhibitions (including Monet).

Later, grab a table at Bistro Livi , where the modern Spanish menu features whipped salt cod on toast and spanner crab with curry butter and spelt flatbread. Stick around to poke through the artist studios and indie boutiques of M|Arts Precinct .

visitors at Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre — Browse the art. (Image: Destination NSW)

The next day, jump aboard the Indigenous Lunch Cruise with Tweed Escapes. You’ll cruise upriver listening to yarns from local Indigenous guides, stop at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Museum and tuck into lemon myrtle-crusted snapper.

Next, drive out to Farm & Co to pull apart some juicy smoked lamb shoulder with green olive tapenade while gazing out over the macadamia fields and avocado groves of this working farm.

End the day at Mantra on Salt Beach where you’ll enjoy beach access, a heated rock spa and a lagoon pool.

dining room at Bistro Livi — Taste modern Spanish at Bistro Livi.

Blue Mountains

The cold season is hands down the best time to visit the Blue Mountains. Temperatures are perfect – sunny enough for hikes, and crisp enough at night for snuggling up.

For a trip that equally soothes and stirs, start with a meditative meander through the national park’s eucalypts and Australian wildflowers. Brave the steepest passenger railway in the world, Scenic Railway , then hop the Skyway aerial cable car for unrivalled Three Sisters views.

Thaw out at the Japanese Bath House in South Bowenfels. Soak in steamy outdoor onsens filled with natural mineral water and mountain views, wander the rose and zen gardens, or sip hot drinks in the tea house.

group leader at Blue Mountains Stargazing — Rug up for Blue Mountains Stargazing. (Image: Destination NSW)

Afterwards, head to Ates in Blackheath, where everything revolves around a 150-year-old ironbark-fuelled oven – like the wood-roasted duck with nectarines and Szechuan spice. Or visit Tempus Katoomba , which leans experimental and sustainable, serving up dishes like braised fennel with cumin, spiced yogurt and Aleppo pepper.

Rug up and head into the night with Blue Mountains Stargazing . Sessions are guided by astrophysicists, helping you understand what you’re looking at as you look into deep space.

Wrap it all up at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains – MGallery Collection . There’s a whiskey bar in the basement (and crackling fires that make a dram taste even better), indoor and outdoor pools and a day spa. Kids will love the mirror maze and ice rink, too.

dishes laid out on table at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains — End the day with delicious meals at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Southern Highlands

Good food and wine by the fire, experienced between sifting through second-hand treasures, is a winter vibe in Bowral.

Start with a lap around Dirty Janes , an antique and vintage market. Recover from your shopping frenzy at Bendooley Book Barn , where floor-to-ceiling shelves and a roaring fire set the tone for an afternoon of red wine or hot coffee.

When it’s time to eat, head to Hickory’s Restaurant & Bar , Peppers Craigieburn Bowral’s onsite restaurant. Try the crispy pork belly with Granny Smith crisps and apple gel, or ocean trout with wakame, lemon gel and pickled radish.

couple looking through Dirty Janes in bowral — Wander the antiques at Dirty Janes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Another option, Onesta Cucina , does Italian with flair. For something more casual (with cocktails), Flour Bar swings between brunch and dinner, with an onsite bakery, over 400 wines and a hidden deli in the old bank vault.

Later, clamber Mt Gibraltar , where trails wind through eucalypt forest to views over Bowral and Mittagong.

Stay at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral , a century-old estate with open fires, elegant lounges and a nine-hole golf course.

woman and her dog winter in nsw at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral — Stay cosy at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral.

Penrith

Shake off winter inertia with an adrenaline boost out in Penrith. Kick things off with a kayak paddle on the Nepean River with Horizon Line, or head to Cables Wake Park , where cold-weather wetsuits take the edge off a wipeout.

For something a bit more cruisy, opt for the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler for slow-floating views and a hot cuppa.

kayakers on the nepean river in penrith — Head out on the Nepean River. (Image: Destination NSW)

Refuel at Marcel Bar & Bistro , where reimagined European comfort food – like seafood risotto in bisque with little neck clams and Moreton Bay bugs – is king. Then check in at the Pullman Sydney Penrith , the area’s first international five-star hotel, to enjoy your well-earned rest.

Start planning your NSW winter getaway at all.com.

The hidden villages to discover along the Coffs Coast