
Found halfway between the vibrant cities of Brisbane and Sydney, and lying on the east coast of Australia, is the beautiful region of the North Coast. It is a popular tourist destination for visitors, due to its scenic views, its excellent restaurants, cafes and eateries, fine wines, coastal national parks, and a wide range of recreational activities. On top of these, the region is regarded to enjoy the best weather in the whole country.
The North Coast region is an ideal getaway from the nearby urban city of Sydney - it has long beautiful and pristine beaches that stretches continuously, lush pastures, crystal clear streams and rivers, with towering forests that envelopes the mountain ranges. One can enjoy water activities such as swimming, fishing, sailing or cruising, whale watching, surfing, kayaking, or snorkelling. One can also simply relax under the sun or be amazed at the most beautiful sea shells on the coast. Aside from breathing in the freshest air and appreciating the breath-taking scenery, tourists can also choose to go bush walking through the wondrous walking trails and national parks, enjoy the stunning country gardens, horse back ride on the countryside, or go bird watching.
It is worthwhile to visit the Hunter Wetlands Centre, which is a haven for Australia's wildlife. Whale watching can be done in areas such as the Fisherman's Bay, the Tomaree, and Stockton Beach. Aside from these nature sites, there are a number of historical museums, art galleries, markets, restaurants and eateries which feature the best local delicacies. Notable festivals and events also highlight the area, and includes the Festival of Whales (commencing the annual migration of whales), and the Bay Food and Wine Festival where there is lots of food and celebration held twice a year.
The most widely visited towns in the North Coast include the Karuah, which is the gateway to the stunning mountain regions snd the delights of the east Australian coast. The Coffs Harbour on the Coffs Coast is renowned for its excellent beaches, banana plantations, luxury resorts and magnificent national parks. The Lakes Way found in the middle North Coast region are paradise for eco-tourism where one can explore the Myall Lakes National Park. Port Macquarie is a favourite for most Sydney siders.
The parks in the North Coast protect the coastline luring around the Coffs Harbour, and there is a string of fishing and surfing communities as well as facilities for those who love nature trekking, camping and bush walking. The harbour in itself is important as a commercial centre and contains the best resort, diving, kayaking and surfing facilities in the region. Further north lies another major town - the town of Grafton which is just as magical for backpackers and surfers, and contains a backdrop of World Heritage level rainforests.
It is pleasant to visit the region all year round. There is a wide range of vacation stays and accommodations that are available on the North Coast ranging from backpacker hostels to farmstays, caravan parks, bed and breakfasts, self-contained units, quality hotels, motels and nice resorts. The railways from Brisbane to Sydney provide economic travel to almost all parts of the region, while car travel is usually always preferred.
The North Coast offers its own unique character. The region's surf beaches and quaint towns are interestingly combined with its distinct warmth, quirkiness and sophistication has made it one of the most popular holiday regions in Australia.