A True Foodie Festival

Luke Young • May 2, 2022

We’re big foodies (and lucky enough, located within walking distance to the Jetty Strip, with fab restaurants, bars and cafes!), which is why we are so excited about the upcoming Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival!


From 4th – 13th June 2022, you’ll get a true foodie experience!


You’ll get to enjoy unique dining experiences, food workshops and better yet, every ticket sold will equate to 2 meals to someone in need across Australia, through OzHarvest.


Here’s a little bit more about each of the experiences.


The Dining Experience

This is a unique experience where foodies get to indulge at some of the best restaurants in the region. You’ll be hosted on site at the restaurant (anywhere from Bellingen to Woolgoolga!) and will enjoy delicious, all inclusive set menus, where our local produce will be highlighted in the dishes.


The Foodie Workshop

For those that love to get hands-on, this is for you! You’ll get to learn from the top professionals in the region about all things food! These workshops are ticketed, and some of the workshops include cooking, Paint n’ Sip, tasting or demonstrations and more!


To view the full schedule of what’s on offer, and purchase your ticket,  you can check out their website here and keep up to date on what’s happening and when!

 

Oh, and if you need accommodation while visiting, you can view our rooms and availability here

The Humpback Highway, Coffs Harbour

By The Observatory • May 3, 2025
Don't Bypass the Humpback Highway this June. Each year The Coffs Coast becomes a prime location to witness the majestic migration of humpback whales. Starting in June, these gentle giants begin their journey from the cold Antarctic waters to the warmer breeding grounds in the north, passing close to the shores of Coffs Harbour. Top Whale Watching Vantage Points. Coffs Harbour offers several excellent spots for whale watching, whether you prefer land-based viewing or boat tours. Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve (Giidany Miirlarl) Located in the heart of Coffs Harbour, Muttonbird Island provides panoramic views of the ocean and is a prime vantage point for whale watching. Woolgoolga Headland. Just north of Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga Headland offers elevated views, making it one of the best spots for observing whales breaching close to shore. Look At Me Now Headland (Emerald Beach) This coastal headland is not only famous for its free-roaming kangaroos but also provides excellent whale watching opportunities during the migration season. Sawtell Headland. Located just south of Coffs Harbour, Sawtell Headland offers grassy picnic spots with both northern and southern views, ideal for spotting migrating whales. The Observatory Apartments. If you would prefer the comfort of home, sitting on your own private balcony spotting the whales as they cruise past the harbour. Whale Watching Tours Whale Watch Experience Operating from June to November, they offer daily cruises at 8:30 am and 11:00 am aboard the "Pacific Explorer," accommodating up to 23 guests for an intimate experience . Jetty Dive Known for their super fast and comfortable boat "Mega Wild," they provide adventure whale watch trips, getting you to the whales quickly and ensuring a thrilling experience, offering 2 - 3 trips a day. If you are brave enough you can also swim with the giants of the sea with Jetty Dive. Whether you're a local or a visitor, witnessing the humpback whale migration in Coffs Harbour is an unforgettable experience. From the serene vantage points on land to the exhilarating boat tours, there's an option for everyone to connect with these magnificent creatures. Don't forget to bring your binoculars, camera, and a sense of wonder as you partake in this annual natural spectacle. Book your next stay with us in our Ocean View Apartments or Ocean View Studios and we will put binoculars in your room for the best viewing from your balcony.

Coffs Harbour - Best Eco - Tourism Destination in New South Wales

By The Observatory • April 19, 2025
Coffs Coast has been globally recognised as an ECO Destination by Ecotourism Australia, surrounded by lush, heritage-listed national parks that form part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, and the Solitary Island Marine Park. Solitary Island Marine Park One of Coffs Harbour’s crown jewels is the Solitary Islands Marine Park , the oldest and one of the largest marine parks in New South Wales. Stretching over 75 km of pristine coastline, this protected area is where tropical and temperate waters meet creating one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in Australia. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside turtles, rays, and over 500 species of fish, or take a whale-watching cruise during the migration season. This marine sanctuary is not only a dream for underwater adventurers, but also a prime example of sustainable marine conservation in action. Heritage Listed National Parks Beyond the coastline, Coffs Harbour is surrounded by lush, heritage-listed national parks that form part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Some must-visit spots include: Bindarri National Park - A remote and rugged escape with rainforest-cloaked valleys and crystal-clear creeks perfect for bushwalking and picnicking. Bongil Bongil National Park - A coastal forest where you can spot koalas in the treetops and paddle through mangrove-lined estuaries. Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve - Muttonbird Island offers spectacular views of the Solitary Islands and is great spot for whale watching in the heart of Coffs Harbour. Rich Aboriginal Cultural connections Eco-tourism here goes hand-in-hand with respect for Indigenous culture. Visitors can take part in authentic cultural experiences with Gumbaynggirr guides. Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours - Stand up paddle boarding exploring the creeks and wetlands on Gumbaynggirr country. Walk along the Gumgali Track at Sealy Lookout, which tells Dreaming stories through art and interpretive signage. Whether you're hiking through ancient rainforests, swimming in clear blue waters, or learning about the deep cultural roots of the region, Coffs Harbour offers an eco-holiday that nourishes both the soul and the planet. Travel light, tread gently, and let nature lead the way on the Coffs Coast.