North Coast Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

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

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.

Mantra Nelson Bay

Mantra Nelson Bay

4 out of 5
1A Tomaree Street, Nelson Bay, NSW
The price is NZ$343 per night from 28 July to 29 July
NZ$343
28 July - 29 July
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! (1,477 reviews)
"Great location, easy walk to the town centre. Good dining options."

Reviewed on 20 Jul. 2025

Mantra Nelson Bay
ibis Styles Port Macquarie

ibis Styles Port Macquarie

3.5 out of 5
1 Stewart Street, Port Macquarie, NSW
The price is NZ$196 per night from 27 July to 28 July
NZ$196
27 July - 28 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star beach hotel in Port Macquarie. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,007 reviews)
"Very nice but car park a little small"

Reviewed on 20 Jul. 2025

ibis Styles Port Macquarie
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$195 per night from 10 Aug to 11 Aug
NZ$195
10 Aug - 11 Aug
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! (2,036 reviews)
"All good"

Reviewed on 17 Jul. 2025

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal 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.
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! (1,477 reviews)
"Great location, easy walk to the town centre. Good dining options."

Reviewed on 20 Jul. 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! (2,036 reviews)
"All good"

Reviewed on 17 Jul. 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! (2,460 reviews)
"What a lovely property. Beautiful pool area and such a gorgeous area with its surroundings. So easy for day trips to take it all in."

Reviewed on 20 Jul. 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.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Cities near North Coast