North Coast Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and buildings in the background.
A wooden pier extending into a turquoise sea with a clear blue sky.
A marina with several boats docked, a pier with people walking, and a distant view of a town and mountains.
A wooden bridge with metal railings, surrounded by lush green mountains and a cloudy sky.
Surfers in the ocean with a large wave.

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.

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 NZ$230 per night from 20 July to 21 July
NZ$230
20 July - 21 July
includes taxes & fees
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 ...
8.2/10 Very good! (2,182 reviews)
"My daughter got sick and they allowed us a late checkout to assist. So convenient to SBCC and lovely views even in winter"

Reviewed on 3 July 2026

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Comfort Resort Waters Edge

Comfort Resort Waters Edge

3.5 out of 5
1 Buller Street Port Macquarie Nsw 2444 Port Macquarie NSW
The price is NZ$225 per night from 26 July to 27 July
NZ$225
26 July - 27 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this golf hotel in Port Macquarie. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very good! (1,000 reviews)
"Great value for money. We loved this place. Lovely renovated room, super comfortable beds and it had everything we needed. Also a great location."

Reviewed on 22 June 2026

Comfort Resort Waters Edge
Pacific Bay Resort

Pacific Bay Resort

3.5 out of 5
Cnr Pacific Hwy And Bay Drive Coffs Harbour NSW
The price is NZ$208 per night from 20 July to 21 July
NZ$208
20 July - 21 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their ...
8.2/10 Very good! (1,001 reviews)
"Nice room and very good location"

Reviewed on 29 June 2026

Pacific Bay 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.
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 ...
8.2/10 Very good! (2,182 reviews)
"My daughter got sick and they allowed us a late checkout to assist. So convenient to SBCC and lovely views even in winter"

Reviewed on 3 July 2026

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 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 ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,591 reviews)
"We are returning guests, and received an upgrade for the second time. Our lagoon view 1 bedroom apartment was roomy, light filled, and comfortable. We had a lovely balcony to soak up the sunshine, which had bags of room. The king size bed was comfortable and warm, which was very welcome, as being ..."

Reviewed on 23 June 2026

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Mantra Nelson Bay

Mantra Nelson Bay

4 out of 5
1A Tomaree Street Nelson Bay NSW
Stay at this family-friendly apartment in Nelson Bay. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,615 reviews)
"Great holiday experience. Value for money"

Reviewed on 2 July 2026

Mantra Nelson Bay
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.

Stay near popular North Coast attractions

Activities

Cities near North Coast

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