North Coast

Travel Guide

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

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

Sawtell featuring a sunset and general coastal views

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
Woolgoolga featuring general coastal views, rugged coastline and landscape views

Woolgoolga

Woolgoolga is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Guru Nanak Sikh Temple and Woolgoolga Beach.

Woolgoolga
With the dogs at the local beach, beautiful sunny day

Emerald Beach

Emerald Beach is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Emerald Beach and Moonee Beach Nature Reserve.

Emerald Beach
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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
We rocked up here as part of our "Pacific Wanderings Road Trip" -  driving from Sydney to Byron Bay - at night.  This was the view from our tent in the morning.  Stunning!  A great place to stop on a road trip and I wish we could have stayed longer.  Kayaking, surfing, beach, hiking...it has it all.  AND views like this!  #roadtrip #mooneebeach  #camping  #NSW

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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Korora

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Korora. A stop by Bruxner Park Flora Reserve or Kororo Nature Reserve might round out your trip.

Korora
Mantra Nelson Bay
Mantra Nelson Bay
4 out of 5
1A Tomaree Street, Nelson Bay, NSW
The price is P10,055 per night from Jul 7 to Jul 8
P10,055
P11,061 total
Jul 7 - Jul 8
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Nelson Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,468 reviews)
Nelson Bay getaway
"Great location, excellent facilities, well appointed units. Would stay here again."

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2025

Mantra Nelson Bay
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
4 out of 5
35-45 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay, NSW
The price is P5,717 per night from Jul 21 to Jul 22
P5,717
P6,289 total
Jul 21 - Jul 22
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Shoal Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,030 reviews)
"Exceptional property with bay views, chirping birds, good indoor and outdoor pools, and other club facilities"

Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Zebra Motel
Zebra Motel
3.5 out of 5
27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour, Coffs Harbour, NSW
The price is P5,391 per night from Jul 10 to Jul 11
P5,391
P5,930 total
Jul 10 - Jul 11
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (704 reviews)
"Need pest control and shower need properly clean moulds in the wall"

Reviewed on Jun 28, 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.
Mantra Nelson Bay
Mantra Nelson Bay
4 out of 5
1A Tomaree Street, Nelson Bay, NSW
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Nelson Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,468 reviews)
Nelson Bay getaway
"Great location, excellent facilities, well appointed units. Would stay here again."

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2025

Mantra Nelson Bay
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 4-star aparthotel in Shoal Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,030 reviews)
"Exceptional property with bay views, chirping birds, good indoor and outdoor pools, and other club facilities"

Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
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 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club, and WiFi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,455 reviews)
"Great location. Great pool."

Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue 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.

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