Animal lover destinations for travellers on the Coffs Coast
Luke Young • April 26, 2021
Are you an animal lover? If yes, why not embrace that part of you when you’re next on holiday? On the gorgeous Coffs Coast, residents and tourists don’t just enjoy the beautiful views and active lifestyle, but the company of some magnificent creatures who frequent our coastline. From marine life which gallops or flutters its wings, there’s something here for every kind of person, be it you, your partner, family and friends to enjoy and come away with memories that last a lifetime! In this blog we’d like to showcase your options for finding fun amidst such wildlife.
- Visit the aquarium
Being a coastal town, it’s only natural you’d like to peruse the sea life! So, from octopi to sea slugs, clown fish and more you can find yourself learning and loving more about the ocean and its wildlife with a trip and tour around Solitary Islands Aquarium. Here’s the link to their website! - Experience marine life conservation
If you’ve strolled the coastline, you’ve possibly caught glimpses of the fins of our friendly Dolphin neighbours! Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is where you can take a self-guided tour of the park’s powerful exhibits. From Penguin Beach to the Rehabilitation Hospice. You’ll see all kinds of marine life and learn about local conservation efforts all-the-while snapping terrific photos (if that’s your thing)! You can book tickets by visiting their website. Here’s the link. - Watch the whales
From searching for pods of dolphins to experiencing humpback whales up close, there’s memorable moments to be had onboard one of Whale Watch Experience’s family-friendly charter boats. Guest size is capped at about 20, to ensure an unmatched and uncluttered view of the oceans finest. Oh, and there’s snorkelling available too! Here’s the link to their website. - Snorkel the Solitary Islands
Speaking of snorkelling, you can count on Jetty Dive to take even the most inexperienced snorkelers on incredible adventures through local sanctuary zones for viewing marine life, from “Nemo” and “Dory” clownfish and blue tangs to turtles and more! Here’s the link to their website. - Go birdwatching
Stepping away from the beautiful marine life we have as our neighbours, there’s plenty of opportunities to catch avian life too! From shearwaters to rainbow lorikeets, all you need to do is keep an eye open and explore the area. There’s a full guide to bird watching on the Coffs Coast website. Here’s the link. - Check out Reptile World
Another reason to visit the Big Banana Fun Park (as if there weren’t enough reasons already) is to visit Steve McEwan’s Reptile World. Become enamoured with reptile-life as you stroll past the displays filled with well and lesser-known snakes, pythons, lizards, turtles and even a croc! If this kind of thing tickles your fancy, then here’s the link to their website. - Be surrounded in butterflies
Rarely will you be granted an opportunity to stroll amidst hundreds of live butterflies, so don’t miss out. Within a beautifully kept indoor subtropical rainforest setting, you can spot more than just butterflies, but fairies. There’s also a dinosaur forest complete with life-sized dinosaurs that you can interact with. How’s that for wild? Here’s the link to their website. - Ride upon horseback
Whether a pro or having never-before ridden a horse, HWH Stables is an award-winning school and trail riding business amid the serenity of Orara Valley. Horse-riding along the beach is on many an Aussie’s bucket list and if you’re no different, here’s the link to their website.
So, there you have it! Hopefully this blog has been helpful in enabling you to connect with nature and make plans for a memorable trip away. If you are heart-set on visiting the Coffs Coast and haven’t yet found a spot to settle, then consider staying with us at The Observatory Self Contained Apartments. We’re right in the hustle and bustle of the main eat-street and but a moment’s walk away from the fabulous main beaches. For booking information and room availability, follow this link!
Experience the Fun at The Big Banana No trip to Coffs Harbour is complete without a visit to the iconic Big Banana. From the thrilling water park and laser tag to the giant slide, toboggan rides, ax throwing and panic rooms there’s something for every age, and dont forget to finish it off with a famous banana split! Ride the Rainforest Rattler Hop aboard the Rainforest Rattler for a magical train ride through the lush Coffs Harbour hinterland. This vintage train journey offers a unique perspective of the region’s stunning natural beauty. It’s a slower-paced activity that’s perfect for families looking to relax while exploring the area. Keep an eye out for early bird tickets on Sale from 15th December at 123Tiks Only runs from the 3rd - 17th Jan. Challenge Yourself at Treetops Adventure Park Adventure meets nature at Treetops Adventure Park. Set amidst lush bushland, this high ropes course offers activities suitable for kids and adults, making it a great family bonding experience. With zip lines, suspended bridges, and rope challenges, it’s an exhilarating way to spend the day. Beach Day: Relaxing and Exploring. Coffs Harbour is famous for its pristine beaches, and a beach day is a must during the school holidays. Whether you prefer building sandcastles, swimming in calm waters, or exploring rock pools, there’s a beach for every mood. Pack a picnic and a beach umbrella and relax! Meet the Animals at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary Get up close with the local marine animals at the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, and learn about the conservation and rehabilitation of injured wildlife, swim with a dolphin or get a photo with a seal. Coffs Harbour truly shines as a school holiday destination, offering something for every family member. From iconic attractions to relaxing escapes, your holiday memories are waiting to be made. Whether you're staying in our ocean-view apartments or exploring the local attractions, we’re here to help you plan an unforgettable getaway. What will you try first? Let us know your favorite school holiday activity!
The holiday season is a time for relaxation, fun, and family bonding—but it can also be a little hectic if you’re away from home. Christmas brings its own unique set of preparations. If you’re planning to spend Christmas with us, here are a few tips to help you enjoy your holiday and be Christmas-ready, even while you’re away.
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theobservatory.com.au
30-36 Camperdown Street, Coffs Harbour