Coffs Harbour's Best Picnic Locations

Luke Young • October 26, 2023

Are you ready to embark on a delightful journey through the stunning landscapes of Coffs Harbour?


Look no further – our exclusive guide is here to unveil the most picturesque picnic spots that our coastal paradise has to offer. From the breathtaking vistas of McCauley's Headland to the serene beauty of Sawtell Lookout, get ready to elevate your picnic experience to new heights. Get the scoop on lesser-known picnic spots that locals adore.


As a bonus, we share some of the area's best-kept secrets for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. These hidden gems are perfect for those who seek solitude and a deeper connection with nature.


McCauley's Headland


The paved walkway with a fairly steep incline will take you up to a grassed area overlooking McCauley's Beach to the south and Diggers beach to the north, with amazing views of Muttonbird Island and the Solitary Islands as your backdrop. all you need to do is find a nice shady spot under one of the trees that scatter the headland and lay out your picnic rug and Relax. There are toilets locates in the carpark at McCauley's and Diggers Beach, There are no picnic tables or BBQs so you will need to take a rug and your picnic basket full of goodies. There are a couple of spots on your way up the hill with seats to sit and rest on your way up. This is an ideal spot for a couple just wanting a nice relaxing picnic.


Moonee Beach Reserve




 

Moonee Beach, where the creek meets the beach, Located only 10kms from our apartments is the picturesque Moonee Beach Reserve equipped with picnic tables, free electric BBQs, toilets, shower facilities, kids playground and plenty of parking.


Moonee has something to offer everyone from the keen surfer to the families with young kids. The protected creek offers a safe haven for swimming for the littlies or venture further for the beautiful deep water holes with rope swings. Great place for kayaking or just relaxing under the shade of the Norfolk Island Pines. This location has great facilities and is very family friendly, perfect for large gatherings, even take the dog this is an on leash pet-friendly area.


Look at me Now Headland


Look at me Now headland is where you can get up close and personnel with the wildlife. Sit with kangaroos while watching the whales swim past, and for the keen bird watcher don't forget your binoculars. There is plenty of parking and the track is an easy paved walkway where you will easily find a nice flat grassy area to lay a picnic rug. There are no facilities here so take plenty of water and all your essentials for a scrumptious picnic, and please don't share your picnic with the wildlife.


Boambee Bay Reserve


Boambee Bay is known for its beautiful turquoise water coming in from the ocean while being protected from rougher seas making it the perfect place for swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. There are shelters for hire for larger groups and plenty of picnic tables around the reserve. Electric BBQs are available or if you prefer there is café for food and drinks. Parking is $5 per car to enter. Playground for the kids and on leash pet friendly.


If you would would like somewhere a bit more private and quiet just head up the hill from the reserve to Sawtell Headland Lookout. Take your picnic basket, and your rug and relax while you take in the amazing view of Boambee Beach.


Swans Picnic area


If it's rainforest you are after and want to escape the summer heat then Swans Picnic Area just below Sealy Lookout is a must, just off the road, but you would think you were deep within the rainforest with the huge trees surrounding you and a picnic table just by the freshwater creek. There is only a picnic table here so you will need to take everything with you, very easily accessible from where you park your car. This one is a hidden gem, definitely worth a visit.


When you book with us we are ready to make your picnic adventures as hassle-free as possible, pick up a picnic basket from our reception team when you check in and fill it with goodies from some of our local favourites. Our top recommendations are: 


  • Jetty SPAR Supermarket for various pre-made sandwiches, wraps and salads as well as a great selection of cheeses. (Just a short 2minute walk from the Apartments)
  • Happy Frog on Park Ave has a great selection of salads and vegetarian options.
  • If you would like a platter made, you can pre-order with Platter Effect and have your platter dropped off at reception
  • BYO Jetty Village Cellars has a great selection of local beers and wine
  • Our reception has a range of cheeses, biscuits, local beer, wine or soft drinks to add to your picnic basket. 


If you're ready for that couples getaway with romantic picnic check out our accommodation options. We recommend the Ocean View King SPA Studio for an extra special touch. Check out our room options HERE.

Coffs Harbour - Best Eco - Tourism Destination in New South Wales

By The Observatory • April 19, 2025
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.

Autumn Fun in Coffs Harbour

By The Observatory • April 5, 2025
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