Inland activities in Coffs you do not want to miss!

Luke Young • Apr 26, 2021

Coffs Harbour is best known for its coastal glory and the things you can do by the water. Be it surfing, kayaking, dining, walking or anything else between, it’s often the star of the show for travellers. But did you know that it’s not all we have to offer here on the Coffs Coast. There’s beauty, serenity, fun and adventure all waiting for you inland also, from the nearby townships and Shires like Bellingen and Dorrigo, to the charming cultural experiences. In this blog we’ll cover a go-to list for anyone looking to experience something a little more country during their stay in Coffs Harbour.


  1. Horse Riding at Holidays with Heart Stables

Whether it’s riding lessons or trail riding, all guests are welcome to these unique experiences where you can live your horse-riding dreams of cantering along a beach or roaming free throughout the ranges! There’s also a perfect Photographic Horse-Riding Tours options for those who want to keep their memories from such a beautiful time. For more information, follow this link.


  1. Adventure up high at TreeTops

With outstanding challenges and courses to enjoy atop the trees by the iconic Sealy Lookout, you and all your companions will have a blast and face some fears swinging like Tarzan, completing a course, riding flying foxes and more all while safe and secure in a harness and supervised environment. For more information, follow this link.


  1. Behold the Butterfly House

A time-tested, hidden gem offering you opportunities to stroll among hundreds of butterflies and also indulge in life-sized dinosaur presentations. It’s perfect for the kids and you can find more information here.


  1. Wander the water with Bellingen Canoe Adventures

In the beautiful Bellingen shire, you’ll find this experience nestled amidst gorgeous and rich ecosystems of wildlife, flora and fauna all unique to this area. It’s fun solo, in groups or with the family and could very well be the highlight of your holiday, so you can find more information here.


  1. Take a guided tour amidst Dorrigo’s pride rainforests

Indulge in a wonderful day out with a guide for steady paced trekking, delicious stops, and spectacular views of waterfalls, plants and wildlife alike. There’s even the option to take a swim and be picked up from your accommodation! For more information, follow the link.

  1. Craft some cheese at the Cheesemaking Workshop

It’s always a worthwhile experience when you learn and practice making food from scratch. These wonderful classes share the art of home cheese making to even the most unable kitchen users. For a fun day full of wholesome, cheesy goodness follow this link!


We hope we’ve inspired you to try something different, and have your day made by one or more of these unique country-vibe experiences during your stay. If you’re eyeballing the Coffs Coast for your next trip, then consider staying with us at The Observatory Self Contained Apartments, with pristine views of the Jetty and walking distance from the main eat street and Jetty area! Just give us a call on (02) 6650 0462 or check out the rest of our website to learn more!

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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