7 things to do on the Coffs Coast that connect you to the land

The Coffs Coast offers eco-conscious travellers an opportunity to find peace, beauty and culture.

It’s fringed by hinterlands of ancient rainforests and wild rivers and home to 60 kilometres of coastline with 30 beaches, headlands and offshore islands where humpback whales swim. There are endless things to do on the Coffs Coast that connect you to nature, so it’s no surprise it earned the title of NSW’s first certified Eco Destination.

The good news is it’s easy to find your own slice of paradise here, far from other visitors. It’s also easier than ever to fly to the Coffs Coast. Here are seven reasons why you should.

1. Grounding Coffs Coast bushwalks

The Coffs Coast is a biodiversity hotspot. It’s home to 11 national parks (plus 37 state forests and 84,000 hectares of World Heritage-listed areas) so it’s easy to find a beautiful bush trail.

Walk between secluded beaches, or find shade below rainforest in the Coffs Coast hinterland. Find one of NSW’s largest koala populations in Bongil Bongil National Park, which is framed by sweeping coastal views.

Look for koalas Bongil Bongil National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Meaningful cultural experiences

Immerse yourself in the ancient power of Gumbaynggirr Country as you take in the stunning 360-degree views from Niigi Niigi (Sealy Lookout), one of their most important cultural sites. Gain a better cultural understanding by joining the Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience. Hear Dreamtime stories and watch dancers while hearing songs and stories of the Gumbaynggirr people in their sacred place.

Join the Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience.

3. Animal encounters

The Coffs Coast offers opportunities to connect with the local animals that call it home. Humpback whales pass close to shore from May to September and there’s a series of headlands along the coast that allow you to get close to the creatures. They can also be spotted across the ocean from lookouts up in the mountains. Or take a whale-watching tour (you can even swim with them) with Eco-certified operator Jetty Dive.

Try spotting Humpback whales from May to September. (Image: Remy Brand)

You can also get close to its littlest creatures – feed a colony of 12 blue penguins at a multi-award-winning rescue and rehabilitation centre, Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. Or meet the native creatures of the rainforest in the hinterland, from koalas to lyrebirds to platypus (if you’re lucky).

Feed penguins at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary.

4. Peaceful walks along the Coffs Coast

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more pristine, peaceful coastal trek than Solitary Islands Coastal Walk. Traverse these 60 kilometres linking a string of secluded beaches and beautiful greenery.

Cross between sweeping bays along rocky headlands and through rainforest while looking across the water for dolphins, humpback whales and white-bellied sea eagles. Do the entire walk across four days or stroll a section at a time. There’s great surfing and swimming, and places for a quiet picnic at Headlands viewpoint.

Trek than Solitary Islands Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Inviting Coffs Coast beaches

The Coffs Coast is home to some of the best beaches in Australia – and most of them are completely free of other people. There are more than 30 beaches dotted along this 60-kilometre-long coastline, with views to the mountains beyond.

Learn to surf on one of many beaches. (Image: Rob Cleary)

It’s one of the best spots in the state for surfers, with beaches for everyone from beginners to experts. Surf schools offer classes, and C-Change Adventures (also certified by Ecotourism Australia) offers kayak, canoe or SUP tours through the region’s stunning waterways.

Take a SUP tour with C-Change Adventures. (Image: Destination NSW)

For another perspective, join HWH Stables for a horse ride along picturesque Boambee Beach. Choose between one-, two- or three-hour rides along the beach: any level of rider is welcome.

Horse ride along picturesque Boambee Beach.

6. Thrilling helicopter tours

Take a joy ride to one of only two island lighthouses in New South Wales with Precision Helicopters. The lighthouse, built in 1880, has been automated since 1975 and few people have been permitted on the island since. Take a tour around the island in winter with a wildlife ranger spotting turtles, whales and birdlife, then climb the 144-year-old lighthouse for the best views of all.

Fly over Muttonbird Island with Precision Helicopters.

7. Coffs Coast accommodation

Coffs Coast is full of eco and luxury accommodation options. From luxury villas built on secret bays such as the Hamptons-like Barellen Beach House, to eco hideaways in green valleys like the cosy country comforts of Hernani Wilderness Hut in Dorrigo National Park – it’s easy to find a place that keeps you immersed in nature, with bird calls the only disturbance.

Stay in luxury at Barellen Beach House.

Those with pets can relax in the cabins at Coffs Coast Mountain Retreat in Lowanna, or Mount Browne Cottage in the peaceful Orara Valley. Both are Eco-Certified.

Getting to Coffs Coast

It’s easy to get here, with more than 100 flights to and from Coffs Harbour Airport weekly. Rex and Qantas operate multiple flights daily from Sydney, with direct flights from Melbourne and Brisbane. Coffs Harbour Airport is home to seven car rental businesses and is conveniently located only five minutes from the city centre.

Fly into Coffs Harbour Airport. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start planning your getaway at coffscoast.com.au.