North Coast Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Coffs Harbour showing a bay or harbour, a sandy beach and swimming
Coffs Harbour which includes a bay or harbour and swimming as well as a small group of people
North Coast
Dorrigo National Park showing views, mountains and forests
Port Macquarie showing a bay or harbour, surfing and surf

Experience some of New South Wales’ best wildlife spotting, dine on delicious seafood and explore pristine beaches backed by World Heritage forest.

New South Wales’ North Coast is a breathtaking strip of coastline where the rolling hills of the hinterland unfurl into the hypnotic blue of the Pacific Ocean. Stretching from Sydney to the northern border of the state at Tweed HeadsOpens in a new window, the North Coast has a varied landscape of idyllic beaches and rugged headlands interspersed with laid-back coastal towns and ancient forests. Treat yourself to the daily catch of fresh seafood and visit historic maritime landmarks. Go on a kayaking adventure through tranquil waterways, rise with the sun and hit perfect surf breaks or snorkel with wild turtles.

Visit some of the North Coast’s cities and towns and enjoy the laid-back charm of coastal living. In NewcastleOpens in a new window, New South Wales’ second-largest city, you’ll find an exciting arts scene and the renowned surf breaks of Merewether Beach. Take a stroll on the coastal promenade of the Bathers Way. Savor the fresh local produce at Port MacquarieOpens in a new window’s renowned food festivals or head to Coffs HarbourOpens in a new window to see the iconic Big Banana. YambaOpens in a new window is famed for its prawns. Stand on mainland Australia’s most easterly point at Cape Byron, situated next to the relaxed beach town of Byron BayOpens in a new window.

Explore the North Coast’s awe-inspiring wilderness. Go snorkeling around the Solitary Islands Marine Park to see turtles or go kayaking in Bongil Bongil National Park. Hike in Wollumbin National Park or explore the rainforest canopy on a skywalk in Dorrigo National Park.

One of the best ways to experience the different landscapes of this beautiful region is by exploring the Legendary Pacific Drive. Heading north from Sydney, this touring route passes through 48 national parks and 12 state forests.

Fly into several regional airports along the coast and rent a car to explore the area at your own pace. Intercity buses and charter tours are also available. Visit the region in summer for beach days in the sunshine or check out the coast in winter to spot migratory whales.

With captivating seaside towns, great cuisine and exciting adventures, the North Coast is an unbeatable destination for a family vacation, romantic retreat or fun-filled road trip.

Where to stay in North Coast

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Sawtell

You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Sawtell. You might want to make time for a stop at Sawtell Main Beach or Boambee Beach.

Sawtell
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Woolgoolga

Woolgoolga is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Woolgoolga Beach and Safety Beach.

Woolgoolga
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Sapphire Beach

Unique features of Sapphire Beach include the beaches and gardens. Make a stop by Sapphire Beach or Solitary Islands Marine Park while you're exploring the area.

Sapphire Beach
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Emerald Beach

Emerald Beach is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Emerald Beach and Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Emerald Beach
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Moonee Beach

While visiting Moonee Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Sapphire Beach and Moonee Beach Nature Reserve.

Moonee Beach
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Toormina

The beaches and restaurants are just a few features travellers like about Toormina. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Coffs Harbour Butterfly House and Sawtell Main Beach are a few top places to visit.

Toormina
Opal Cove Resort

Opal Cove Resort

3 out of 5
Opal Blvd - Pacific Hwy Korora NSW
The price is AU$172 per night from 14 Dec to 15 Dec
AU$172
14 Dec - 15 Dec
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,011 reviews)
Although we were just transitting through and only had one night this was the highlight of our journey. The spaciousness of reception areas, dining and bar are unusual these days. Our grandchildren enjoyed the pool, slide and the games area. Rooms were also large and well catered. Very clean, very ...

Reviewed on 28 Nov 2025

Opal Cove Resort
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
The price is AU$199 per night from 8 Dec to 9 Dec
AU$199
8 Dec - 9 Dec
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club and Wi-Fi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,514 reviews)
Cleanliness Staff friendly Amenities

Reviewed on 23 Nov 2025

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Pacific Bay Resort

Pacific Bay Resort

3.5 out of 5
Cnr Pacific Hwy And Bay Drive Coffs Harbour NSW
The price is AU$167 per night from 13 Dec to 14 Dec
AU$167
13 Dec - 14 Dec
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,017 reviews)
Room was clean and a good size with a balcony. Only there overnight but the grounds and amenities looked amazing. Would be a great resort to spend a few days in.

Reviewed on 29 Nov 2025

Pacific Bay Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
Stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club and Wi-Fi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,514 reviews)
Cleanliness Staff friendly Amenities

Reviewed on 23 Nov 2025

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

4 out of 5
35-45 Shoal Bay Rd Shoal Bay NSW
Stay at this aparthotel in Shoal Bay. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,096 reviews)
Good

Reviewed on 28 Nov 2025

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Mantra Quayside

Mantra Quayside

4 out of 5
Cnr William Street and Short St Port Macquarie NSW
Stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Port Macquarie. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,899 reviews)
Great location and comfortable apartment

Reviewed on 28 Nov 2025

Mantra Quayside
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Cities near North Coast

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