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.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

The hidden villages to discover along the Coffs Coast