Planning your Christmas Holiday on the Coffs Coast!

Luke Young • April 26, 2021

So, the time has finally come to get ready to pack the bags, bikes and beach towels for your annual family holiday staying with us at The Observatory. Hooray! If you’re an “out-of-towner” or it’s your first trip to the area, you’ll want to know what’s good and where to go to make the most of this special family time! We know how important a memorable Christmas lunch is (for all the right reasons!) so we’ve put together some recommendations for where to buy the best local ingredients in Coffs Harbour for a beautiful Christmas feast for the whole family!



  • For the love of seafood! 
    Experience an ocean to plate experience like no other! Set out on a short 10 minute stroll from your apartment at The Observatory to the Jetty Marina, there you will find some of the finest seafood Coffs Harbour has to offer at The Fisherman’s Coop. Selling quality, locally caught seafood this is THE spot to pick up the best fish & chips in town or take home a bag of prawns for the kids to peel at Christmas lunch! Christmas just wouldn’t be right without fresh, beautiful prawns and seafood! 
  • World-class local grocer. 
    You’ve got the proteins sorted from the Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Coop, now where to go to get quality produce and speciality deli and grocery items? Fresco Marketplace just down the road, that’s where! This place has some seriously unique delicatessen products (think beautifully fragrant cheeses, delicately cured meats and the likes!) Fresco is always stocked up on fresh, local produce from growers and farmers around the Mid North Coast. Fresco is located just a 2-minute drive away at Coffs Central shopping centre, the perfect place to pick up last-minute gifts or anything you may have forgotten to pack!


Our family apartments have a fully self-contained kitchen area for you to whip up a storm. The Observatory Holiday Apartment kitchens are fully equipped with utensils and cooking equipment, crockery and cutlery… all you need to bring is the food! Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on where to go to get the very best ingredients for an unforgettable Christmas lunch all that’s left is to get on the road to Coffs Harbour. See you soon!

Our Top 5 things to do in the Christmas Holidays

By Tourism Tribe • December 13, 2024
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!

Stress Free Christmas on Holidays: Tips for a festive Christmas Holiday

By The Observatory • November 16, 2024
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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