16 Coffs Harbour Accommodation Picks For Every Budget

Character-filled hotels, resorts, Airbnbs and bed-and-breakfasts round out our pick of the best Coffs Harbour accommodation.

From absolute beachfront homes and rustic hinterland cabins to a resort offering wraparound views of the Great Dividing Range and Pacific Ocean, Coffs Harbour accommodation offers a smorgasbord of ultra-cool stays. Here, we pinpoint our favourites within the holiday hot spot and within the wider Coffs Coast.

1. Sapphire Sands Beach House

the view from the living room of the pool at Sapphire Sands Beach House, Coffs Harbour — The four-bedroom abode sits metres away from the beach.

Make sure your hair is perfectly coiffed during your stay at Sapphire Sands Beach House so you can snap stellar selfies while swanning about poolside. The four-bedroom home, which sleeps up to 10 guests, sits metres away from Sapphire Beach, which is one of the loveliest spots on the Coffs Coast.

Bags the main bedroom and book a long stay so you can take advantage of the infinity-edge swimming pool and 12-person heated spa, gourmet galley kitchen, thatched gazebo with comfy lounges and complimentary fishing rods.

Address: 12a Beachfront Close, Sapphire Beach

2. Barellen Beach House

the sun room interior at Barellen Beach House, Coffs Harbour — The interiors feature a soothing palette of cream and tan with rattan furniture and oversized seashells also making an appearance.

Barellen Beach House is a sophisticated space that looks like it could have been airlifted in from The Hamptons. The five-bedroom waterfront hangout, which sleeps 10, spills directly onto Safety Beach and offers magical views of the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

It’s awash with nautical vibes spanning giant seashells, life buoys and porthole wall mirrors sourced from all over the world, including India, Europe and Africa.

The word Barellen represents ‘the meeting of the waters’ in the local Indigenous language, to which the owners like to refer the home itself, a charming rendezvous point for your favourite people.

Address: 18 Ocean Drive, Safety Beach

3. Diggers Beach Cottage

the living room at Diggers Beach Cottage, Coffs Harbour — Settle into the charming Diggers Beach Cottage.

If you stir early enough, you’ll have the entire beach to yourself at Diggers Beach Cottage , located on prime real estate near Coffs Harbour’s pretty Diggers Beach.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom estate blends coastal with country, creating a calming oasis that sleeps up to six people, just 10 minutes from the centre of town. Rifle through the selection of books and board games, kick back in the beautifully maintained courtyard or get your hands dirty in the luxurious gourmet kitchen.

Address: 2 Diggers Headland Place, Diggers Beach, Coffs Harbour

4. Hernani Wilderness Hut

the Hernani Wilderness Hut in Coffs Harbour — Hernani Wilderness Hut is the perfect place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.

Weave your way through Dorrigo National Park to get to Hernani Wilderness Hut , a property that should appeal to anybody seeking off-grid tranquillity. The eco-friendly escape, which sleeps nine people, is located about 1.5 hour’s drive west of Coffs Harbour so it really is just you and the greatest of outdoors. Expect old-school country comforts such as a slow-combustion fireplace and colourful crochet blankets as you go bush in cosy comfort.

Address: 10392 Armidale Road, Hernani

5. ArtHOUSE

While creativity defines your stay at ArtHOUSE , it’s the sensational views that take centre stage. A boutique property split into three self-contained apartments on Emerald Beach, it’s designed for couples but can accommodate up to four people in each. Featuring easterly aspects overlooking Emerald Beach (go for ArtHOUSE 3 for the most exceptional views), you’ll be treated to enclosed verandahs, queen size beds, air conditioning, robes, laundry facilities, flat screen TVs and more. There’s a cafe next door but nobody will blame you if you never want to leave.

Address: 1 Surf Street, Emerald Beach

6. Hampton on the Beach

the seating area at Hampton on the Beach, Coffs Harbour — The sprawling four-bedroom house is what beach house dreams are made of.

It doesn’t get any more delicious in Sapphire than this. Hampton on the Beach is a four-bedroom marvel that offers instant access to Sapphire Beach’s sandy shores.

All the bells and whistles are naturally thrown in, including a yoga studio, a media room, a fireplace, a gourmet kitchen and even an optional concierge service that grabs groceries and arranges a cook for you. Beachfront decadence direct from your holiday dreams.

Address: 13 Emerald Avenue, Sapphire Beach

7. Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa

the interior of Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa, Coffs Harbour — Villas are spacious and comfortable.

Fallen head over heels for Sapphire? Rest your head in style at Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa , located right off the sand and offering self-contained apartment living.

Pick your poison out of studio, one, two or three-bedroom stays as you seize the opportunity to laze poolside, dip into the spa, get your sweat on in the exercise space, play tennis at the two full-size courts and let the kids wear themselves out within two shallow wading pools. A reliably comfortable family-friendly hot spot.

Address: 8 Solitary Islands Way, Sapphire Beach

8. Opal Cove Resort

Coffs Harbour’s infamous views, spanning the mountain and the sea, can be soaked up in full at Opal Cove Resort . Whether you’re booking a summer stay or winter escape, the resort’s location near Korora Bay means you’ve got a great sun-splashed position all year round. Enjoy a plunge in the outdoor pool fitted with a water slide and sun deck or just pop across the manicured lawns for a swim in the turquoise sea. Spa Elements is located on-site so you can indulge in your favourite treatment before chasing it with dinner at Horizons Restaurant.

Address: Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour

9. Pacific Bay Resort

a one bedroom with private balcony at Pacific Bay Resort, Coffs Harbour — Nautical-inspired decor features throughout.

Pacific Bay Resort has earned a reputation for being one of Coffs Harbour’s premier stays. And, as the sister hotel to Jonah’s in Sydney’s Whale Beach and the nearby Bonville Golf Resort where you can stay and play, it’s in good company.

Pacific Bay’s rooms range from studio configurations to three-bedroom apartments and plush penthouse suites. If the sun’s shining, dine on local seafood on the outdoor terrace at Bayside Bar and Grill, adjacent to the lagoon or take aim at the nine-hole golf course. There’s also Tranquillity Day Spa, buffing and shining holidaymakers seven days a week.

Address: Corner Pacific Highway and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour

10. Pacific Towers Beach Resort

This absolute beachfront hotel is expertly dressed in subdued colours to let those stunning sea and sky views act as artworks. Settle into one of Pacific Towers Beach Resort ’s self-contained apartments to spot, if you’re lucky, whales migrating throughout the glistening waters. Enjoy a spot of tennis, swim laps in the 20-metre pool, and soak in the heated spa. You can also join a fishing charter from the Coffs Harbour International Marina, located just nearby.

Address: 121 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour

11. BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort

This tropical-inspired resort, positioned right on Diggers Beach, is a great place for a family-friendly gallivant. For the ultimate all-immersive experience, opt for one of BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort ’s Paradise Spa Bures, decked out like a traditional Balinese hut with a king bed and spa bath. The resort provides all the creature comforts your clan will nee,d including three tennis courts, four swimming pools, two outdoor spas, a kids’ play area, a barbecue area, a gym and a day spa.

Address: 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour

12. The Pier Hotel

a room with twin beds at The Pier Hotel, Coffs Harbour — Stay within walking distance of all the action at the classy Pier Hotel.

Book any one of the beautiful queen, single or twin-share rooms at The Pier Hotel to stay within walking distance of the Jetty precinct, the marina and waterfront walking and cycling paths. Savvy travellers have been staying overnight at the pub, one of the best pubs within the Coffs Coasts, since 1905 and although you can no longer tether your horse to a hitching rail, you will score secure alarmed parking if you’re riding a motorcycle. Non-motorcycle travellers will still get free wi-fi, LED TVs and plush bedding.

Address: 356 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour

13. Ibis Budget

the outdoor at Ibis Budget, Coffs Harbour — What the Ibis lacks in beachfront location, it makes up for in value and an inground pool.

Although the Ibis Budget sits a little bit back from the coastline, it’s a perfect option for families keen to stick to Coffs Harbour’s centre. The 70-room hotel has a mix of standard rooms with queen beds as well as rooms with singles and bunks so it caters for every style of family. There’s also a swimming pool, a laundry and free-flowing wi-fi to help everyone relax.

Address: 1A McLean Street, Corner Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour

14. Quality Hotel City Centre

the spacious bedroom at Quality Hotel City Centre, Coffs Harbour — The Quality Hotel City Centre is perfect for business travellers.

The Quality Hotel City Centre is smack bang in the centre of Coffs Harbour, making it well suited for urbanites who want to be within walking distance of the best places to eat and drink.

The rooms in this low-key hotel span queen-bed executive-style, king-bed suites and three-bedroom apartments. Grab a relaxed feed at Marinara Restaurant, open for breakfast and dinner and dishing up modern Australian fare with Italian inspiration. Facilities include a fitness centre, outdoor pool, laundry services and on-site parking.

Address: 22 Elizabeth Street, Coffs Harbour

15. Coffs Coast Mountain Retreat

Head for the hills with a stay at Coffs Coast Mountain Retreat . Plunging you right into the beautiful Orara Valley, the property features two beautifully appointed cabins fitted with hot tubs, outdoor dining settings, barbecues, fire pits, fully equipped kitchens and all your linen. Plus, four-legged friends are welcome. The owners are firmly focused on ensuring they leave the planet in better shape than when they entered it so you can count on solar power, all-natural materials and upcycled features throughout.

Address: 84 Gundarene Road, Lowanna

16. Friday Creek Retreat

scenic views of the surrounding valley at Friday Creek Retreat — Friday Creek Retreat is nestled among the rolling green hills of the Orara Valley.

Journey 20 minutes inland from Coffs Harbour to find the stunning Friday Creek Retreat in the Orara Valley. Set among rolling green hills, the Coffs Coast accommodation offers nine cottages with fully equipped kitchens and open fireplaces.

And while you’re certainly out in the middle of the forest, there’s still plenty to indulge in. An outdoor pool puts you right into the fresh country air while a poolside barbecue space is fitted with a woodfire pizza oven to inspire party times.

Address: 267 Friday Creek Road, Upper Orara

For more unexpected wonders of the Coffs Coast, read our guide to Coffs Harbour and beyond.

This article was originally written by Carla Grossetti with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

16 perfectly placed Coffs Harbour accommodation picks