Indoor activities for rainy days in Coffs Harbour

Luke Young • Apr 26, 2021

As we head into the Autumn-Winter seasons on the Coffs Coast, you might find that your holiday is side-railed by unexpected rains and storms. It’s the charm and the curse of being such a subtropical climate, and with this handy little blog you’ll find a list of great things you can still enjoy while you wait out the rain or if you’re just feeling like an indoors kind of day!


  1. Catch a flick at Birch Carroll & Coyle

It’s the go-to cinema in Coffs Harbour and perfectly central, just off the Pacific Highway. You’ll be able to catch the latest and greatest movie and pass the time with a big box of popcorn for memorable moments on the big screen. Follow the link to view showings here.


  1. Blast away at Laser Tag

If the kids need entertaining, then it might be off to the arena for you. Pop on a battle suit, grab a blaster and enjoy interactive games amidst a stellar soundtrack, lightshow and crew of combatants. More info here.


  1. View the sea life at the Solitary Islands Aquarium

Enjoy the exciting local species and even a touch tank where you can get close and feel a sea star, sea cucumber and sea urchin! There are guided tours, theme-based exhibits and plenty to do and see that will baffle your brain and enlighten you to the joys beneath our waters. For more info follow this link.


  1. Pick up a spare at Club300 Bowling

This is great fun for everyone involved. Play a couple of games and see who’s got the goods. Whether you’re shooting for style or a strike, you’re bound to have a good time and there’s food and drinks available on-site should you need some sustenance throughout! Here’s a link to that.


  1. Witness sweets heaven at Carobana Confectionary

If you have a sweet tooth then pop in for factory tour and see how a range of incredible, local confectionaries are created. From honeycomb to rocky road, you’ll find your thing and no doubt take a bunch of it back with you to your accommodation. Here’s a link to their site.


  1. Shop ‘till you drop at Park Beach Plaza or Coffs Central

There’s plenty of shopping to be done in Coffs Harbour, and both of these malls are decked out with retail stores and food courts delight! Just park your car and find some new favourite things out!


  1. Skate on ice at the Big Banana Ice Skating Rink

Whether a seasoned skater or a straight up beginner, ice skating can be a fun, romantic, hilarious and even thrilling experience. There’s even a learn-to-skate program available and guided frames for those who haven’t yet found their skating feet! Give it a try by following this link.


So, do any of these list items inspire you? Whether you plan on making some cheese or simply catching a flick at the cinema, we hope we’ve helped you level up your holiday in Coffs Harbour with the plethora of indoor activities on offer! If you’re yet to book a stay in the area, then consider staying with us at The Observatory Self Contained Apartments in Coffs Harbour, right on the Jetty with serene views and quick access to the best cafes, restaurants and beaches around!

Take a Cultural Journey of Coffs Harbour

By The Observatory • 10 Apr, 2024
Let us take you on a journey from Woolgoolga in the North to Sawtell in the South to uncover the stunning cultural heritage of Coffs Harbour. Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre at Corindi Beach Yarrawarra is located in the homelands of the Garby Elders and the Gumbaynggirr People. The Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre includes a bush tucker cafe, Indigenous Art Gallery, Monthly Cultural Programs, Aboriginal Art Classes and Story Sessions. This space is proudly open to the public so that they can learn about and enjoy Gumbaynggirr culture, art and history. Sikh Heritage Museum in Woolgoolga A warm and welcoming space showcasing the traditional and religious life of the Sikh people in Australia. The exhibits contain information on the Sikh understanding of the origins of the universe, the lives and teachings of the Ten Gurus, the Sikh empire, Sikhs in the world wars, the Sikh ANZAC contribution, the first migration of Sikhs to Australia and finally, the establishment of a Sikh community in Woolgoolga. Yarrila Arts and Museum Located in the heart of our City Centre, YAM boasts five exhibition spaces hosting national and local touring exhibitions such as the Archibald Prize and STILL: National Still Life Award. It’s home to a permanent display, Yaamanga Around Here, which explores the history and identity of the Coffs Coast through themes of place, community and belonging, with Gumbaynggirr culture at its heart. Take your exploration of YAM outdoors with a visit to the South Solitary Island Lighthouse Optic. A beacon of safety for sailors it was New South Wales' most isolated lighthouse on South Solitary Island between 1880-1975. It has been painstakingly restored in its new location upon the Jetty Foreshores where it now sits in sight of the ocean. Jetty Memorial Theatre The Jetty Memorial Theatre serves as an important arts hub and performance venue for the Coffs Coast region. Showcasing a range of local, state and international shows including musical theatre, comedy, musicians and productions, movie screenings and more. Sawtell Art Gallery To finish your cultural journey of the Coffs Coast head to Sawtell Art Gallery where you can participate in arts classes or enjoy monthly exhibitions. Then head down treelined First Ave and explore a wide variety of beautiful boutiques and cafes that all add to the tapestry of Sawtell. Ready to pack your bags and journey through the Coffs Coast? The Observatory is located in Coffs Harbour Jetty and the perfect base for your next cultural adventure. Check out our rooms HERE and book your getaway today. 

A sweet Easter long weekend getaway

By The Observatory • 08 Mar, 2024
With the Easter long weekend fast approaching, what better way to celebrate than in the beautiful coastal town of Coffs Harbour? With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and iconic attractions like the Big Banana and The Coffs Jetty , Coffs Harbour sets the stage for an unforgettable holiday with your loved ones. Join us as we embark on a sweet Easter getaway filled with excitement, relaxation, and plenty of chocolate eggs! For a relaxing start to your getaway Wake up to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore and breathe in the fresh sea air. Start your day with a delicious breakfast overlooking the ocean, or why not visit one of the nearby cafes for a tasty treat. After breakfast, head to one of Coffs Harbour's pristine beaches for a day of sun, sand, and surf. Park Beach and Jetty Beach are perfect choices, offering golden sands and clear waters ideal for swimming and exploring. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon lounging under the sun or exploring the coastline on a scenic coastal walk. Kick off your second day with an adrenaline-pumped adventure at the iconic Big Banana Fun Park . Test your skills in the brand new panic rooms or the thrilling rides like the famous Giant Slide and the exciting Toboggan Ride. Don't forget to snap a photo with the Big Banana monument. If you still have some energy left head on up to the The Treetops Adventures and take in the breathtaking beauty of The Orara State Forest from high above the treetops. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Coffs Harbour Marina, where you can indulge in fresh seafood from The Fisherman Co-Op . Savor the flavors of the sea as you toast to another unforgettable day in paradise. On Easter Sunday, start your day with a traditional Easter egg hunt and Witness the joy on children's faces as they search for hidden treasures left by the Easter Bunny. After the egg hunt, head over to Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary for an interactive and educational wildlife encounter. Get up close and personal with rescued marine wildlife as you learn about their behaviors and the conservation efforts of the sanctuary. From relaxing beach days to thrilling outdoor excursions and festive celebrations, this coastal paradise offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality time with loved ones, Coffs Harbour is the perfect destination for an unforgettable Easter holiday getaway. 🐰🌴
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