Wonderful Water Activities & What to Bring!
Luke Young • April 26, 2021
In the midst of summer our Coffs Coast begs you to splash about our cool fresh and salt waters! Here’s a variety of ways you can do so solo, with friends or family, as well as a list of things you’ll kick yourself if you forget to pack!
Before you embark on our list of activities, it’s essential to know what to bring! We all know that last-minute scramble, so here’s your tailor-made cure!
- Sunscreen (at least SPF 30).
- Waterside footwear (thongs or sandals always gets a workout).
- Sun-safe Hat & breathable long-sleeve shirt (vital protection for long periods of exposure or for walking from point A to B).
- Togs, goggles, kids’ floaties and the other essentials you already own (avoid wasting your money and panic-purchasing replacements).
- Backpacks, day bags, a beach bag and beach towels (often forgotten, always useful).
- Sunnies (headaches, no more!).
- Reusable shopping bags (separate wet or dirty clothes from your other gear).
- Lip balm (so they don’t crack like popcorn!).
- Aloe-vera (sunburn sucks! You’ll thank yourself for this ice-cold relief).
- Water bottles (it’s hard to dodge dehydration, so get a few and fill ‘em up!).
- Zip lock bags (what?! We know, it’s a lifesaver’s trick – place your smart phone inside a transparent zip-lock sandwich bag and you’ve got a water and sand proof phone, usable through the plastic).
Now you’re packed, let’s hit the water! Here are our recommendations:
- Canoeing, Kayaking & Paddle boarding – Safe, slow and scenic. Our picks are C-Change Adventures, and Bellingen Canoe Adventures.
- Fishing Trips – Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced fisherman, fishing trips for everyone are available at Coffs Harbour Fishing Charters.
- Surfing – Three great picks for surf schools on our coastline: East Coast Surf School, Lee Winkler’s Surf School and Solitary Islands Surf School. You can’t go wrong!
- Jet Ski – That’s right, Coffs Jet Ski Hire offers thrilling, family-friendly jet ski rides with no licence required or minimum age to ride. 16’s and up can even go solo!
- Water Park – In recent years the Big Banana’s really stepped a notch. An amazing day guaranteed at the iconic Big Banana Water Park!
- Snorkelling, Diving & Whale Watching – Jetty Dive is your go-to. Scuba diving and whale-watching is prime in our waters!
- Swimming Pool – After a simple swim? Coffs Harbour War Memorial Olympic Pool features a fully stocked café and wet play area with soft fall pad for the kidlets. Otherwise just keep it low key and stay in at The Observatory Holiday Apartments, we have a shaded pool area for our guests to enjoy!
- Beaches – Such a classic way to spend the day! Park Beach is perfect to plant your sun-brella, drop your beach bag (keep an eye on it!) and swim safely between the flags under the supervision of our lifeguards. For more information about patrolled beaches in Coffs, go here.
So, we’ve laid the groundwork, it’s now up to you to choose what jumps at you and pack for success! If you’ve not yet booked a summer holiday here on the Coffs Coast, then we invite you to stay with at The Observatory Holiday Apartments! We have 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom ocean view apartments available to book, with the beautiful beach on our doorstep. Call us on 02 6650 0462 to enquire about what rooms we have available for you!
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.
QUICKLINKS
CONTACT
theobservatory.com.au
30-36 Camperdown Street, Coffs Harbour