North Coast

Travel Guide

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

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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Sandy Beach

While visiting Sandy Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Solitary Islands Marine Park and Moonee Beach Nature Reserve.

Sandy Beach
Opal Cove Resort

Opal Cove Resort

3 out of 5
Opal Blvd - Pacific Hwy Korora NSW
The price is HK$736 per night from 18 Dec to 19 Dec
HK$736
HK$812 total
18 Dec - 19 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! (1,006 reviews)
It was a really nice clean resort with lots of ammenities at an affordable rate!

Reviewed on 9 Dec 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 HK$1,028 per night from 11 Dec to 12 Dec
HK$1,028
HK$1,028 total
11 Dec - 12 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! (2,515 reviews)
Cleanliness Staff friendly Amenities

Reviewed on 23 Nov 2025

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Zebra Motel

Zebra Motel

3.5 out of 5
27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour NSW
The price is HK$776 per night from 11 Dec to 12 Dec
HK$776
HK$855 total
11 Dec - 12 Dec
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a fitness centre. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (764 reviews)
Helpful staff. Good bed.

Reviewed on 2 Dec 2025

Zebra Motel
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! (2,515 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! (2,097 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! (1,901 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.

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