
Coffs Coast has been globally recognised as an ECO Destination by Ecotourism Australia, surrounded by lush, heritage-listed national parks that form part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, and the Solitary Island Marine Park. Solitary Island Marine Park One of Coffs Harbour’s crown jewels is the Solitary Islands Marine Park , the oldest and one of the largest marine parks in New South Wales. Stretching over 75 km of pristine coastline, this protected area is where tropical and temperate waters meet creating one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in Australia. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside turtles, rays, and over 500 species of fish, or take a whale-watching cruise during the migration season. This marine sanctuary is not only a dream for underwater adventurers, but also a prime example of sustainable marine conservation in action. Heritage Listed National Parks Beyond the coastline, Coffs Harbour is surrounded by lush, heritage-listed national parks that form part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Some must-visit spots include: Bindarri National Park - A remote and rugged escape with rainforest-cloaked valleys and crystal-clear creeks perfect for bushwalking and picnicking. Bongil Bongil National Park - A coastal forest where you can spot koalas in the treetops and paddle through mangrove-lined estuaries. Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve - Muttonbird Island offers spectacular views of the Solitary Islands and is great spot for whale watching in the heart of Coffs Harbour. Rich Aboriginal Cultural connections Eco-tourism here goes hand-in-hand with respect for Indigenous culture. Visitors can take part in authentic cultural experiences with Gumbaynggirr guides. Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours - Stand up paddle boarding exploring the creeks and wetlands on Gumbaynggirr country. Walk along the Gumgali Track at Sealy Lookout, which tells Dreaming stories through art and interpretive signage. Whether you're hiking through ancient rainforests, swimming in clear blue waters, or learning about the deep cultural roots of the region, Coffs Harbour offers an eco-holiday that nourishes both the soul and the planet. Travel light, tread gently, and let nature lead the way on the Coffs Coast.

As the summer heat eases and the crisp, golden hues of autumn take over, Coffs Harbour becomes an outdoor lover’s paradise. Nestled on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, this laid-back coastal town offers the perfect blend of lush hinterland, sparkling beaches, and scenic coastal trails. And if you're a fan of hiking or coastal walks, autumn is hands down the best time to visit. Autumn (March to May) brings cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds, making it ideal for hitting the trails. Daytime temps hover comfortably in the low to mid-20s°C, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Summer’s intensity fades, but the ocean is still warm enough for a post-walk swim, and the skies are often clear and bright. Whether you're into panoramic views, forested tracks, or breezy ocean strolls, there’s something here for everyone. Here are our top picks: 1, Mutton Bird Island Nature Reserve This short but iconic walk takes you along a breakwall and up to the top of Muttonbird Island, where the view over the harbour and out to the Pacific is absolutely stunning. In autumn, the migratory birds are active, and the sunsets here are something else — think pastel skies and warm ocean breezes. Distance: 600m one way. Easy and perfect for a pre-dinner stroll. 2, Dorrigo National Park About an hour inland from Coffs, world heritage listed Gondwana Rainforest is an absolute must. Autumn is ideal, no summer leeches, fewer mozzies, and the waterfalls are full and flowing flowing. The Wonga Walk takes you past Crystal Shower Falls and Tristania Falls, all under a dense canopy of ancient trees. Bonus: On cooler mornings, mist hovers over the valleys, giving the whole area a magical, otherworldly feel. 3, Solitary Islands Coastal Walk Spanning over 60km, this is one of the best coastal walks in NSW. You don’t need to tackle the whole thing — choose a section between Sawtell, Coffs Creek, or Woolgoolga for a rewarding few hours. The trail weaves past beaches, headlands, and pockets of rainforest, with plenty of opportunities to spot whales (late May onwards), dolphins, and birdlife and stop for a bit to eat in a beachside cafe along the way. Autumn tip: Mornings and late afternoons are beautifully cool, and the golden light makes the ocean views pop. 4, Bongil Bongil National Park A bit under the radar, this park offers lush forest trails, quiet picnic spots, and access to uncrowded beaches. The Bluff Loop walking track is a great option — it’s flat, easy, and meanders through coastal rainforest and paperbark swamp. Autumn brings out the birdsong, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a koala snoozing in the treetops. 5, Sealy Lookout & Forest Sky Pier Just a short drive from the city centre, the Sealy Lookout in Bruxner Park Flora Reserve offers sweeping views over the coastline and the Great Dividing Range. In autumn, the walk through the subtropical rainforest is shaded, peaceful, and rich with birdsong. Don’t miss the Forest Sky Pier — it juts out over the escarpment and gives you that classic “wow” view of Coffs Harbour below. Tip: Perfect for sunrise or sunset for the perfect photo opportunity. Autumn in Coffs Harbour is the sweet spot — not too hot, not too cold, and with nature at its most inviting. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or a longer break, this is the time to dust off your hiking shoes, grab your camera, and explore some of the best coastal and hinterland walks New South Wales has to offer. So go on breathe in the ocean air, listen to the bushland come alive, and fall in love with Coffs this autumn. Book your next escape with us The Observatory Apartments

With the perfect blend of coastal beauty, outdoor adventures, and delicious food, the Coffs Coast is an ideal destination for an Easter long weekend escape. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or your special someone, this four-day itinerary ensures you make the most of your stay. Day 1: Arrival & Sunset at Muttonbird Island Afternoon: Check in and take a deep breath, the fresh ocean air will quickly help you unwind. If you’re staying at The Observatory Apartments, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the Jetty precinct. Take a leisurely stroll along the Coffs Harbour Marina before embarking on the scenic walk up Muttonbird Island. The panoramic views of the coastline are breathtaking, and if you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins or other sea life enjoying the harbour. Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Latitude 30 , offering fresh seafood and a stunning waterfront setting. Head back to your accommodation for a restful night before a fun-filled weekend ahead. Day 2: Exploring Nature & Adventure Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Supply Specialty Coffee & Bar for delicious coffee and locally sourced dishes. Head to the Solitary Islands Aquarium to get up close with marine life and learn about the rich underwater ecosystem of the region. Afternoon: Drive up to Sealy Lookout and take in breathtaking views from the Forest Sky Pier. For the adventurous, book a ziplining experience with TreeTops Adventure Park . Stop by the Big Banana Fun Park , where kids and kids-at-heart can enjoy toboggan rides, mini-golf, and water slides. Evening: Treat yourself to dinner at The Pav , where a seat on the deck is the perfect location to take in the hustle of nightlife on the Harbour Drive precinct. Day 3: Easter Sunday Celebrations & Relaxation Morning: Kick off your Easter Sunday with a traditional egg hunt! Then head down to the Jetty Harbourside Markets for breaky and some pursing of the market stalls. Afternoon: Head to Dangar Falls for a picturesque picnic and a refreshing dip in the waterfall pool. Evening: For a casual yet memorable Easter Sunday dinner, grab some fresh seafood from the Fisherman's Co-op and enjoy the breathtaking views from your Observatory Apartments balcony. There's no better seat in the house. Day 4: Coastal Walks & Farewell Brunch Morning: Begin your last day with an early morning walk along the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, soaking in the sunrise over the ocean. Enjoy a farewell brunch at Donovan's Surf Club Restaurant & Bar - The butterscotch pancakes are divine! Late Morning: Take one last dip at Jetty Beach or Park Beach before heading home, refreshed and recharged after an unforgettable Easter weekend. Make Your Easter Unforgettable on the Coffs Coast From breathtaking lookouts and family-friendly attractions to delicious dining experiences, Coffs Harbour has everything you need for an Easter long weekend to remember. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking to relax, this itinerary ensures you experience the best of the Coffs Coast. Ready to book your Easter escape? CLICK HERE to check out our availability and lock in your Easter escape. What’s your favorite Easter tradition when traveling? Let us know in the comments!
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.
Tee off at the best courses in the region. If you're a golf enthusiast looking for a holiday that combines scenic beauty with challenging courses, look no further than the stunning Mid North Coast of NSW. With world-class golf courses and beautiful accommodation, a golfing holiday in Coffs Harbour is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the sport. Here’s an ideal itinerary for a golf lover’s getaway, featuring some of the finest courses in the region. Day 1: Arrive in Coffs Harbour and Play at Coffs Harbour Golf Club Start your holiday at the Coffs Harbour Golf Club, only 5 mins from our apartments, This 27-hole championship course is known for its lush greens and tree-lined fairways. With three sets of 9 holes, it offers a variety of challenges for golfers of all levels. The course has big city standards with friendly small town charm that will make you feel right at home. Day 2: Experience Bonville Golf Resort On day two, head to Bonville Golf Resort. Often referred to as "Australia’s Augusta," this award-winning course is set at the Foot of the Great Dividing Range against a backdrop of towering eucalypts and rainforest. Bonville is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the country. The fairways are pristine, and the course is designed to test every aspect of your game, with its undulating landscape, strategic bunkers, and water hazards. Day 3: A Scenic Round at Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club For your third day, drive about 40 minutes south to the picturesque Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club. This unique course is set on an island in the Nambucca River, offering stunning water views from almost every hole. The course is known for its narrow fairways and challenging greens, making accuracy key to a successful round. Be prepared for the wind to come into play as you navigate this beautiful coastal course. Day 4: Tee Off at Urunga Golf Club Next on your golfing journey is the charming Urunga Golf Club, located about 20 minutes south of Coffs Harbour. This 9-hole course may be smaller, but it offers stunning water views and an enjoyable mix of easy-to-moderate challenges. Set beside the Kalang River, the course provides a serene atmosphere with well-kept greens and a relaxed pace, making it perfect for a laid-back yet scenic round. Day 5: Finish at Safety Beach Golf Club Safety Beach Golf Course is in a lovely position right near the beach. It boasts a challenging 18 hole course that is sure to test the avid golfer, but will allow the social golfer to enjoy their round. The fairways are generous and greens reachable. However, there are plenty of bunkers and hazards, tricky pin placements and varying ocean breezes that will challenge any golfer. The course also features a vast display of native wildlife including a huge population of kangaroos. You will have to share the course with the kangaroos. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on championship courses like Bonville or prefer a relaxed round at Safety Beach and Urunga, Coffs Harbour and its surrounds offer a fantastic golfing escape. For the perfect accommodation located centrally to all your golfing needs and in the heart of Coffs Harbour Jetty Check out our accommodation specials here

Coffs Harbour is a haven for families, offering a wide range of activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. Whether your family enjoys nature, adventure, or creativity, Coffs Harbour has something for everyone. Here’s our list of must do family activities. Muttonbird Island Walk For families with active kids, the Muttonbird Island is a must. The walk up the island is short but steep, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the coastline and a glimpse of the nesting grounds of the wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds). Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales if you’re visiting between May and November! The Big Banana Fun Park The Big Banana Fun Park is the perfect mix of thrilling attractions for kids who love a bit of excitement. With a giant water park, laser tag, ice skating, a toboggan ride, and mini-golf, there’s something for everyone. For families with older kids test your skills with the escape rooms, with guaranteed bonding to be had. Forest Sky Pier & Sealy Lookout A short drive from town, the Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout offers an easy family adventure with stunning panoramic views of Coffs Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. Kids will enjoy the feeling of being high above the trees, and the short, easy bushwalks nearby are great for younger adventurers. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic spot. Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary The Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary is a hands-on experience where kids can get up close with marine animals like dolphins, seals, and penguins. They’ll love watching the daily presentations and even have the chance to interact with the animals in a safe environment. It’s both fun and educational, teaching kids about marine conservation in a memorable way. Speak to our team about securing a special discount on your entry fee 😉 Harbourside Markets On Sundays, the Harbourside Markets come alive with local crafts, food, and live entertainment. Kids will enjoy browsing the stalls, grabbing a snack, and even participating in some of the family-friendly workshops or activities that often take place. Plus, the market is situated near jetty beach, so a quick dip in the ocean can be a great way to cool off afterward. National Cartoon Gallery + National Holden Motor Museum For creative kids, the Cartoon Gallery offers a fun and quirky look at cartoon art. This unique attraction, located in an old WWII bunker, showcases cartoon illustrations from around the world. It’s a great way to inspire young artists and keep them entertained with a different kind of cultural experience. The National Holden Motor Museum is now open at the bunker as well so the young and young at heart will be equally entertained. Ziplining and Adventure at TreeTops If your kids love a physical challenge, TreeTops Adventure Park is an absolute must. They can climb, zipline, and navigate a series of high ropes courses suitable for various age groups and skill levels. The park offers thrilling courses that push kids to test their limits while ensuring a safe and exciting environment. After a long day of exploring the Coffs Coast there is nothing better than heading back to your home away from home at The Observatory Apartments where our spacious two and three bedroom apartments provide enough space for the whole family to lay back and relax. Check out our extended stay packages HERE or call our team on 02 6650 0462 to check availability.