Plan your 2024 Coffs Harbour Family Holiday
Luke Young • Nov 23, 2023
Thinking about taking a break after the chaos of Christmas and heading on your family holiday in January? Look no further than Coffs Harbour, just 6hrs from Sydney or 4hrs from Brisbane it is the perfect location to spend a week to recoup before 2024 really kicks into gear.
Here's our top recommendations for a four night visit:
Day 1: Arrive in Coffs Harbour
- Arrive in Coffs Harbour and check into your accommodation at the Observatory apartments. We have a range of room options to suit every family.
- Get your bearings by heading out for a walk down to Jetty Beach, along the break wall and out to Muttonbird Island.
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or check out the Friday night Twilight Food Markets at Park Beach Reserve (weather permitting).
Day 2: Beach Day and Butterfly House
- Start your day with a visit to the Coffs Harbour Jetty, a popular spot for a morning stroll and quick dip. Daze Coffee is perfect spot for a coffee and light breakfast
- Head to the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House, a fascinating and family-friendly attraction. Learn about various species of butterflies and admire the lush gardens.
- Afterward, you can have a picnic lunch in the garden or enjoy a nearby cafe.
Day 3: Explore the Rainforest
- This is the day to hop on the "Rainforest Rattler" scenic train. (Make sure you check train times as they are only in Coffs for a limited time each January)
- Enjoy the breathtaking views of the countryside, lush rainforests, and possibly some waterfalls along the way.
- Feeling up to a short, picturesque drive today? Head to Dorrigo and explore the National Park, including the Rainforest Centre, and various walking trails.
- After a busy day out and about grab a seafood platter from the Fisherman's Co-op and relax on the balcony overlooking amazing ocean views.
Day 4: Big Banana Fun Park
- Visit the iconic Big Banana Fun Park, which offers various attractions and activities for the family, including a water park, ice skating, and a giant slide.
- Have lunch at the park's cafe and enjoy a banana split while getting an iconic photo in front of the Big Banana.
- Take the afternoon to unwind and relax, try fishing at the Jetty or grab a picnic basket from reception and enjoy one of our many beautiful headland lookouts.
Day 5: Final Moments
- You can't go past the Butterscotch Pancakes at Coffs Harbour Surf Club before heading home. The view is unreal and will have you missing Coffs already.
Remember to book your accommodation and any train tickets well in advance, especially if you plan to take the "Rainforest Rattler." Also, keep an eye on any updates or changes to local attractions and services as you get closer to your travel dates. Enjoy your family holiday in Coffs Harbour.
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.
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. 🐰🌴
