Coffs Harbour, North Coast — New South Wales

Coffs Harbour is a resort city in the northern part of New South Wales. Its place-name was attributed to shipbuilder John Korff, who was said to have taken shelter in the harbor during a storm in 1847. The spelling was modified a few years later, said to be as a result of error made by surveyors.

The city has long been a holiday destination of metropolitan city residents due to its numerous attractions and sunny yet moderate climate.

Coffs Harbour’s most identified icon is the Big Banana, a building shaped like its namesake. Located along the Pacific Highway, it is a site where there are several banana products are sold and a banana plantation is located nearby, where monorail tours are offered. There are several entertainment facilities within the area, including a man-made ski slope that is a favorite destination for families and groups of friends. There are also toboggan runs and an ice skating rink.

Being near the coastline, there are several beautiful beaches in Coffs Harbour. Places like the Moambee Beach, Park Beach, and Diggers Beach are popular destinations for swimming and are quite crowded. However, secluded areas like the Sandy Beach are also found.

Swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling are just few of the activities that can be done at the Solitary Islands Marine Park. It covers the shores of the Coffs Harbour, stretching north to the mouth of the Sanden River, and is considered as the largest marine protected area in the state. Fishing is allowed in designated areas.

At the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, different plants and birds take center stage. The area offers opportunities for scenic walks and is accessed through the Hardacre Street.

Scenic views of the city and the harbor are also plentiful at the Beacon Hill Lookout, at Edinburgh Street.

Visitors to the Bruxner Park Flora Reserve, located along Bruxner Park Road, will get to see different species of orchids and ferns while taking its walking track, with a picnic area located near the Park Creek. Further down the road is the Sealy Lookout.

Within the city are also several places worth a visit or two. A historical structure, the Old Jetty, has been converted into a pleasant strolling place, which leads into the Jetty Place and the Foreshore Park. Further along is the Muttonbird Island, a popular area for bird watching, particularly for the wedge-tailed shearwaters. The island is also a perfect lookout for passing Humpback whales on their way to migrating waters.

Another family destination is located nearby, on Orlando Street. The Pet Porpoise Pool is where marine animals get to perform several tricks to the delight of audiences. Apart from sea lions, porpoises, sharks, and penguins, the facility also features a huge marine tank and an animal sanctuary.

Animals can also be viewed at the Coffs Harbour Zoo, located north of the city and accessed through the Pacific Highway. Children will surely enjoy its hand-feeding sessions with some of the zoo’s animal residents, while adults get to take quiet quite strolls along the zoo’s landscaped paths, visiting an animal nursery and an aviary.

Another interesting attraction that shouldn’t be missed is the Clog Barn, situated on the corner of Harbour Drive and Orlando Street. It is actually a miniature set depicting a Dutch village, complete with historical buildings, locomotive, waterfalls, and windmills.