Top Activities for Kids Part 1

Lydia Crossingham • December 8, 2021

Let’s face it. It’s not always easy when you’re travelling with children to keep them entertained. And it’s important that wherever you choose to go, you have some amazing options that will keep the kids happy.


So, without further ado, we have compiled for you the top 10 activities for kids on the Coffs Coast. Here’s Part 1, for those beautiful, sunny days!


1.     Boambee Beach  – this is a favourite with kids! Clear, shallow waters to play in and explore along with excellent playground facilities, barbeques, shelters and takeaway food options.

2.     Coffs Harbour Butterfly House – Possibly one that will go down as a huge hit with the kids. You’ll get to stroll amongst hundreds of live Australian butterflies in an indoor subtropical rainforest setting. There is also a very cool maze plus a live Dinosaur show twice a day, with a Dino forest and Dinosaur lab, where they hatch new dinosaurs. Cool!

3.     Dolphin Marine Conservation Park – Experience marine animals close up, discover the animal and conservation programs and be inspire to act responsibly every day to care for our marine wildlife.

4.     Treetop Adventure – Seriously fun, you can experience tree ropes and Ziplining along with challenging obstacles courses, all located high up in the tree canopy. A really fun day the kids will love.

5.     Solitary Islands Coastal Walk  – This coastal walk is loads of fun, purely for the wildlife you meet along the way! Gorgeous kangaroos can be found at Look At Me Now headland and are always a hit with the kids!


And don’t forget, when you’re planning your Coffs Coast trip with the family, make sure you book one of our amazing self-contained apartments or townhouses. Check out the various options HERE

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
March 18, 2025
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!