Haven’t Been to Coffs for Years? Why You’re Due for a Return Trip!

Luke Young • November 28, 2022

We’ve heard many visitors this year exclaim: “I haven’t been back to Coffs in years!” If that's you, then here’s a few reasons it might be time to pencil in that Big Banana coastline again!

 

Highway Upgrade

While the $2.2bn bypass is still under-way, the recent highway upgrades will see a shrunken travel duration. Here’s a reference:

 🏙️ From Brisbane in under 4 hours (used to be 5)

 🌆 From Sydney in 5 and a half hours (used to be 7)

 

Gone are the days where a trip to Coffs was an entire day in a crowded car!


New Attractions

Like changes in the tide, Coffs Harbour has shifted, opening new doors to that which adds new opportunities for travellers. For example…

 🍌 The Water Park upgrade to The Big Banana Fun Park

 🌴 Treetops’ Zipline Adventures in the tree-lines near Sealy Lookout!

 🛹 A new Skate Park

 🛤️ Gorgeous new south breakwall walk track & park

 🏬 Facelifts to both major shopping centres with emphasis on ‘al fresco’ dining

 

Coastal Living Improved

After being COVID cooped up, we hear countless sighs of relief at how nice it is to be in Coffs. As the cities got crazier, Coffs doubled down on that coastal lifestyle!

 

There’s better paths, thoughtfully placed infrastructure around our favourite beaches, more walking trails, and new outdoor communal spaces to enjoy our sunny coastline.

 

More specifically, if you haven’t seen the new improvements to our Jetty Foreshores district then you’re in for a treat! With a shipping container coffee shop, more open views and amphitheatre style spaces (as well as playgrounds & sculptures)--there’s a lot to love.

 

We’d also love to highlight the recent rise in food & beverage vans serving everything from hot coffee to mini donuts & ice-cream along each and every scenic headland. It makes those morning beach trips and sunset gatherings even more magic!

 

Pencil It In!

Whether you're keen on catching the famous July barrels, or hitting our headlands for the Easter break, if you want a self-contained apartment with ocean views, walking access to all you need, and options for enough space to accommodate a big family for your 2023 holiday–then consider a booking with us.

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.
By The Observatory August 26, 2025
Friday Afternoon - Settle in & Twilight Markets Arrive in Coffs Harbour and check into your apartment overlooking the ocean. After a relaxed afternoon on your balcony, head to Muttonbird Island for a short walk that rewards you with sweeping views of the Solitary Islands. As the sun dips, keep an eye out for whales still migrating along the coast – spring is one of the best times of year for sightings. Finish the evening at the Twilight Food Markets along the foreshore. Enjoy live music, sample dishes from around the world, and soak up the laid-back seaside atmosphere. Saturday – Nature, Adventures and Dinner at Stef & Co Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at one of the local cafés before heading off to explore. Nature lovers will enjoy a stroll through the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens , bursting with colourful spring blooms. For something a little more adventurous, take a trike tour and visit the waterfalls and scenic headlands In the afternoon, wander through Coffs Central for boutique shopping and local produce. In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at Stef & Co , a contemporary dining spot showcasing fresh, seasonal flavours in a relaxed yet stylish setting overlooking Coffs Creek the perfect way to end your Saturday in Coffs. Sunday – Slow Down & Soak It In On your final morning, take a leisurely walk along the beach and visit the Harbourside Markets for unique finds and tasty treats. If time allows, squeeze in a visit to the Solitary Islands Aquarium or simply relax with a coffee in hand, soaking up the spring sunshine before the journey home. Why Spring is the Best Time to Visit Pleasant temperatures perfect for both outdoor adventures and lazy afternoons. Whale watching season still in full swing. Markets, festivals, and events adding colour and energy to the town. Fewer crowds than the peak summer holidays. A spring weekend in Coffs Harbour is all about balance, exploring, relaxing, and enjoying the beauty of the coast. Whether you’re here for adventure or simply to unwind, it’s the kind of place where memories are made. Make your spring getaway extra special by staying with us at The Observatory Apartments - with spacious rooms, ocean views, and the Jetty right on your doorstep, it’s the perfect base for your weekend escape. Book your stay today and start planning your spring adventure!