Coffs Harbour's Best Picnic Locations

Luke Young • October 26, 2023

Are you ready to embark on a delightful journey through the stunning landscapes of Coffs Harbour?


Look no further – our exclusive guide is here to unveil the most picturesque picnic spots that our coastal paradise has to offer. From the breathtaking vistas of McCauley's Headland to the serene beauty of Sawtell Lookout, get ready to elevate your picnic experience to new heights. Get the scoop on lesser-known picnic spots that locals adore.


As a bonus, we share some of the area's best-kept secrets for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. These hidden gems are perfect for those who seek solitude and a deeper connection with nature.


McCauley's Headland


The paved walkway with a fairly steep incline will take you up to a grassed area overlooking McCauley's Beach to the south and Diggers beach to the north, with amazing views of Muttonbird Island and the Solitary Islands as your backdrop. all you need to do is find a nice shady spot under one of the trees that scatter the headland and lay out your picnic rug and Relax. There are toilets locates in the carpark at McCauley's and Diggers Beach, There are no picnic tables or BBQs so you will need to take a rug and your picnic basket full of goodies. There are a couple of spots on your way up the hill with seats to sit and rest on your way up. This is an ideal spot for a couple just wanting a nice relaxing picnic.


Moonee Beach Reserve




 

Moonee Beach, where the creek meets the beach, Located only 10kms from our apartments is the picturesque Moonee Beach Reserve equipped with picnic tables, free electric BBQs, toilets, shower facilities, kids playground and plenty of parking.


Moonee has something to offer everyone from the keen surfer to the families with young kids. The protected creek offers a safe haven for swimming for the littlies or venture further for the beautiful deep water holes with rope swings. Great place for kayaking or just relaxing under the shade of the Norfolk Island Pines. This location has great facilities and is very family friendly, perfect for large gatherings, even take the dog this is an on leash pet-friendly area.


Look at me Now Headland


Look at me Now headland is where you can get up close and personnel with the wildlife. Sit with kangaroos while watching the whales swim past, and for the keen bird watcher don't forget your binoculars. There is plenty of parking and the track is an easy paved walkway where you will easily find a nice flat grassy area to lay a picnic rug. There are no facilities here so take plenty of water and all your essentials for a scrumptious picnic, and please don't share your picnic with the wildlife.


Boambee Bay Reserve


Boambee Bay is known for its beautiful turquoise water coming in from the ocean while being protected from rougher seas making it the perfect place for swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. There are shelters for hire for larger groups and plenty of picnic tables around the reserve. Electric BBQs are available or if you prefer there is café for food and drinks. Parking is $5 per car to enter. Playground for the kids and on leash pet friendly.


If you would would like somewhere a bit more private and quiet just head up the hill from the reserve to Sawtell Headland Lookout. Take your picnic basket, and your rug and relax while you take in the amazing view of Boambee Beach.


Swans Picnic area


If it's rainforest you are after and want to escape the summer heat then Swans Picnic Area just below Sealy Lookout is a must, just off the road, but you would think you were deep within the rainforest with the huge trees surrounding you and a picnic table just by the freshwater creek. There is only a picnic table here so you will need to take everything with you, very easily accessible from where you park your car. This one is a hidden gem, definitely worth a visit.


When you book with us we are ready to make your picnic adventures as hassle-free as possible, pick up a picnic basket from our reception team when you check in and fill it with goodies from some of our local favourites. Our top recommendations are: 


  • Jetty SPAR Supermarket for various pre-made sandwiches, wraps and salads as well as a great selection of cheeses. (Just a short 2minute walk from the Apartments)
  • Happy Frog on Park Ave has a great selection of salads and vegetarian options.
  • If you would like a platter made, you can pre-order with Platter Effect and have your platter dropped off at reception
  • BYO Jetty Village Cellars has a great selection of local beers and wine
  • Our reception has a range of cheeses, biscuits, local beer, wine or soft drinks to add to your picnic basket. 


If you're ready for that couples getaway with romantic picnic check out our accommodation options. We recommend the Ocean View King SPA Studio for an extra special touch. Check out our room options HERE.

A Grand Adventure - Where Grandparents and Grandkids create coastal memories

By The Observatory • November 7, 2025
There’s something truly special about the bond between grandparents and grandchildren, the laughter, the storytelling, and those simple, joy-filled moments spent together. So why not make some new memories on a multi-generational getaway. Just the grandparents and the grandkids, right here in beautiful Coffs Harbour. Travel Made Easy Leave the car at home and make the journey part of the adventure by catching the train to Coffs Harbour. Kids will love watching the changing scenery along the coast, and grandparents can sit back, relax, and enjoy a stress-free trip. Once you arrive, our apartments are just across the road from the station for your convenience, everything you need is right here within walking distance of the Jetty precinct, cafés, and the beach. It’s the perfect way to slow down, travel sustainably, and start your holiday as soon as you step aboard. Stay in Comfort and Ease Our spacious ground-floor apartments are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. With no stairs to navigate, they’re perfect for little legs and for grandparents who prefer easy access. Each apartment includes full kitchen facilities, so you can whip up breakfast together or enjoy a relaxed dinner after a big day of exploring. Step outside onto your private patio to enjoy the morning sunshine, or relax in the cool sea breeze in the evening — it’s a peaceful space to connect, chat, and plan the next day’s adventures. Jetty Beach and Foreshore Fun Just a short stroll from our apartments, Jetty Beach is calm, protected, and perfect for swimming or building sandcastles. Bring a picnic, watch the boats come in, and enjoy an ice cream together from one of the local cafés along the foreshore. North Coast Regional Botanical Gardens A lovely, peaceful outing for all ages. Wander the shady paths, spot colourful birds, and perhaps pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake. The easy walking trails make it ideal for prams or those wanting a leisurely stroll. The Playhouse playground When it’s time to burn off some energy, head to The Playhouse, an indoor play centre where the grandkids can climb, slide, and explore in a safe, air-conditioned space. There’s a café on-site too, so grandparents can relax with a coffee while keeping an eye on the fun. Harbourside Markets If you’re visiting on a Sunday, don’t miss the Harbourside Markets. With live music, handmade crafts, and delicious treats, it’s a wonderful way to spend a relaxed morning. Let the grandkids pick a special souvenir to take home as a reminder of your trip. Relax and Recharge After a day of fun, return to your comfortable ground-floor apartment. Cook up a family-favorite meal in your full kitchen, or head out to one of the many nearby family-friendly restaurants. Play a board game, watch a movie, or simply enjoy a quiet cuppa while the kids wind down. Make Memories to Last a Lifetime Spending time together without the parents can be a special adventure for both generations filled with stories, giggles, and shared experiences that will be remembered for years to come. Catch the train, leave the car behind, and stay in our easy-access, fully self-contained apartments the perfect base for a relaxing, fun-filled coastal escape for grandparents and grandkids alike.

Coffs Harbour Corporate Accommodation

By The Observatory • September 11, 2025
Premium Jetty Location Our enviable position near the Coffs Harbour Jetty puts you at the heart of convenience. After a long day of meetings or site visits, you can step outside and enjoy a refreshing walk along the Jetty foreshore. For dining , you’ll be surrounded by some of the city’s best cafés, restaurants, and bars — perfect for a quick morning coffee, relaxed dinner, or hosting a client meeting in a more casual setting. Spacious Corporate Apartments Designed for Work and Comfort Unlike traditional hotels, our corporate apartments in Coffs Harbour are designed to help you both work efficiently and relax comfortably. Each apartment features: Work desks to keep you productive on the go Separate dining spaces that double as a meeting or project space Large windows and private balconies, filling your apartment with natural light and fresh ocean breezes Full kitchens, giving you the flexibility to cook your own meals if you prefer Our apartments are also generously sized, making them a perfect option if family want to visit you while you’re away working. This added space ensures your stay feels less like a hotel and more like a welcoming home. Corporate Rates and Flexible Benefits We understand the needs of business travellers and companies, which is why we offer tailored corporate benefits: Flat corporate rates for approved guests, making travel budgeting simple and predictable No minimum stays — whether you’re in town for one night or several weeks, we’ve got you covered No block-out dates, so you’ll always have access to your corporate rate when you need to travel Your Home for Business Travel in Coffs Harbour At The Observatory Apartments, we combine the comfort of spacious, fully equipped apartments with the practicality of flexible corporate rates. Whether you’re here for a short-term project, a client visit, or an extended business trip, our accommodation provides the perfect balance of work, relaxation, and convenience. Discover why so many professionals choose us for corporate accommodation in Coffs Harbour — where business travel feels more like home. Reach out to our team HERE to book your corporate stays with us.