North Coast

Travel Guide

North Coast
North Coast
North Coast
North Coast
North Coast

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

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

Woolgoolga

Woolgoolga is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Woolgoolga Beach and Safety Beach.

Woolgoolga
Emerald Beach

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
Sapphire beach, Coffs Harbour, Australia

Sapphire Beach

Unique features of Sapphire Beach include the beaches and gardens. Make a stop by Sapphire Beach or Campbells Beach while you're exploring the area.

Sapphire 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
Panoramic landscape of Coffs Harbour jetty and luxury real estate. Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia

Red Rock

You'll enjoy the beaches and parks in Red Rock. You might want to make time for a stop at Red Rock Beach or Corindi Beach.

Red Rock
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
The price is ₩189,666 per night from May 6 to May 7
₩189,666
₩189,666 total
May 6 - May 7
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club, and WiFi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,578 reviews)
Room was spacious and comfortable. Property was very clean.

Reviewed on Apr 20, 2026

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Coffs Harbour Sanctuary Resort

Coffs Harbour Sanctuary Resort

3.5 out of 5
250 Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour NSW
The price is ₩115,813 per night from May 7 to May 8
₩115,813
₩127,394 total
May 7 - May 8
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly motel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,001 reviews)
Place is clean and have your own privacy & parking is plenty Suggest for better breakfast so we can add to the booking.

Reviewed on May 4, 2026

Coffs Harbour Sanctuary Resort
Pacific Bay Resort

Pacific Bay Resort

3.5 out of 5
Cnr Pacific Hwy And Bay Drive Coffs Harbour NSW
The price is ₩154,892 per night from May 7 to May 8
₩154,892
₩170,381 total
May 7 - May 8
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
Great buffet breakfast at a very reasonable price. Staff were all very helpful and friendly. Loved the golf course. We will definitely be back.

Reviewed on May 3, 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.
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club, and WiFi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,578 reviews)
Room was spacious and comfortable. Property was very clean.

Reviewed on Apr 20, 2026

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
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 WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,150 reviews)
No complaints about cleanliness. Love the proximity to eateries n beach n walks to the bushland. Staff members have always been courteous and helpful and oblige within the constraint of their policy . Thank you.

Reviewed on Apr 29, 2026

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort

BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort

4 out of 5
11 Firman Drive Coffs Harbour NSW
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and 3 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,335 reviews)
The pool was fantastic. Great place to stay with family and kids.

Reviewed on Apr 19, 2026

BreakFree Aanuka Beach 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

Cities near North Coast