Make the most of your June to July School Holidays

Lydia Crossingham • Jun 03, 2021

With the June to July school holidays upon us it’s always a great idea to know what activities you can enjoy with the whole family during your stay on the Coffs Coast. In this blog we will recommend our favourite options!

1.     The Big Banana – Let’s get the obvious choice out of the way! From laser tag to waterslides, toboggans and more – it’s THE place to visit in Coffs Harbour and for good reason.

2.     Markets – There’s always markets happening around our coastline and they’re always a great way to get time outdoors, feel the community spirit and indulge in charming, locally sourced food and nick-nacks. Our favourite way of keeping up with what’s on is by visiting the Coffs Coast Events website.

3.     Picnics – Beautiful places to picnic with the family are abundant. Our favourite places include The Botanic Garden, Macauleys Headland, Cook Creek, Boambee Bay and Look At Me Now Headland!

4.     Dining Out – Breakfast, lunch and dinners delight can be found close by our accommodation at the Jetty Strip, in the CBD, on First Ave in Sawtell, Bellingen’s and Woolgoolga’s main streets.

5.     Seeing a Show – From live music at local markets to incredible productions at Jetty Theatre or a classic music at the cinema.

6.     Paintball – If the kids are in their teens and craving something more exciting then go no further than a family game of paintball with Elite 1!

7.     Skydiving – Another thrill for those who are up for it! Coffs Harbour is beautiful from the ground, but even more so from up above! What better view can you get? Here’s the best place to find your skydiving package.

8.     Clog Barn – A long-stood Coffs classic. It’s a little piece of Holland, bristling with unique charm and heart that you’ll thank yourself for stepping within. It’s one of a kind, so check it out!

9.     Treetops – Up among the trees you can find adventure in the form of challenging and exciting obstacle courses while safely harnessed to neighbouring trees. You’ll glide from platforms via flying fox and precariously make your way to the end of each course. There’s even a smaller, lower course for the tiny tots!


There’s so many more places worth mention, from the Butterfly House to Watching Wales, which we’ve covered in other blogs as well as tours where you can tour the coast in all kinds of vehicles – from Segway to Trike.


We hope we’ve helped you make the most of your school holidays, and if you’re looking for a place to stay on your next visit, consider The Observatory Self Contained Apartments which is just one block away from the Jetty Strip and coastline. Follow the link to see what rooms we have available.

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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