Everything You Need To Know About Stay NSW Vouchers!

Lydia Crossingham • March 1, 2022

Have you heard about the Stay NSW vouchers? No? We’re here to explain what they are, how they work and how you can use them!

 

As of the 1st March 2022, all NSW residents over the age of 18 years will receive 1 x $50 Stay NSW voucher from the government. These vouchers can be redeemed at participating accommodation providers across NSW. Just like the Dine & Discover vouchers!

 

The Observatory Apartments is registered to accept these vouchers, so we thought it would be helpful to outline how you can use them with us.

 

1.      You will need to book direct via our website HERE or by calling 02 6650 0462.

2.      The vouchers are treated as cash and are redeemed on check in, NOT at the time of booking. You will not see the voucher discounted when booking on the website or when you receive your confirmation email. It will be discounted from the purchase price upon check in, when making payment.

3.      The voucher must be valid at the time of check in. Valid for bookings made prior to 9th October 2022.

4.      You may use more than one Stay Voucher per stay for example if you are staying with friends or family you can combine your vouchers to make the most of your holiday.

5.      The Observatory Apartments is NOT accepting Parents NSW Vouchers (5 x $50 Parent Vouchers for parents of school aged children). Rather, we encourage all our guests to discover the Coffs Harbour region and support a variety of local businesses while holidaying with us. Use your vouchers to take a guided tour or hire paddleboards and spread the love around! The pandemic has been rough on local businesses, so we would rather see those vouchers shared amongst the business community. 

 

How can you get the best out of your vouchers?

 

Why not use your Stay NSW Vouchers with one of our fantastic 5 night stays ($150 off) or 7 night stays ($210 off) , where you’ll be getting the best deal on your holiday accommodation.

 

If you have any questions at all regarding using the Stay NSW with us, please give us a call on 02 6650 0462 and one of our friendly staff will be happy to assist.


Coastal Views to Rainforest Vibes: Top walks in Coffs Harbour

By The Observatory • May 7, 2025
Whether you’re after sweeping ocean views, lush rainforest escapes, or a peaceful walk through native bushland, Coffs Harbour delivers some of the most scenic and accessible walking tracks on the NSW coast. Perfect for visitors looking to stretch their legs, connect with nature, and discover the stunning landscapes that make this region so special. Solitary Islands Coastal Walk Stretching approximately 60 km from Red Rock to Sawtell, this iconic trail offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and lush headlands. This one is for the more adventurous hikers, pack a backpack as this one can take up to 4 days to complete, or jump in and do any part of it you like just follow the signposts. Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve Walk This short but rewarding walk will get the heart rate going with the sleep incline to begin with, The raised path ascends to the Eastern Side Lookout, offering panoramic views of the Solitary Islands Marine Park and the Pacific Ocean. Between May and November, it's a prime spot for whale watching. The island is a significant Aboriginal site and home to thousands of wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds) that nest here annually. Interpretive signage along the trail provides insights into the island's cultural and ecological importance. North Coast Regional Botanical Gardens A 20-hectare oasis in the heart of Coffs Harbour, featuring a mix of natural coastal forests, planted gardens, discovery walks, and picnic areas. Highlights include the Japanese Friendship Garden and a collection of rare and endangered plant species. Macauleys Headland Walking Track A scenic clifftop walk connecting Park Beach with North Diggers Beach, offering expansive ocean views and opportunities for birdwatching. The well-maintained path is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Coffs Creek and Cycleway This shared path meanders through a bush setting, along side Coffs Creek on a raised boardwalk linking the CBD with major attractions like the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, Coffs Wildlife Sanctuary and Jetty Beach total loop is about 8.6 km with plenty of spots for a picnic along or a cafe lunch along the way. Bluff Loop Walking Track Located in Bongil Bongil National Park near Repton, the Bluff Loop Walking Track is a 2.25 km circuit that winds through lush coastal rainforest, featuring vines, palms, and towering trees. The trail offers opportunities to spot local birdlife and, with some luck, koalas in the treetops. A short side track leads to a secluded timber viewing platform overlooking Bundageree Creek. The Bluff Loop Picnic Area provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. With so many incredible walks waiting to be discovered, Coffs Harbour is the perfect destination for your next nature-filled escape. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, our centrally located apartments put you within easy reach of all the top trails. Book directly with us for the best rates and personalised local tips to help you make the most of your adventure. We can't wait to welcome you!

The Humpback Highway, Coffs Harbour

By The Observatory • May 3, 2025
Don't Bypass the Humpback Highway this June. Each year The Coffs Coast becomes a prime location to witness the majestic migration of humpback whales. Starting in June, these gentle giants begin their journey from the cold Antarctic waters to the warmer breeding grounds in the north, passing close to the shores of Coffs Harbour. Top Whale Watching Vantage Points. Coffs Harbour offers several excellent spots for whale watching, whether you prefer land-based viewing or boat tours. Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve (Giidany Miirlarl) Located in the heart of Coffs Harbour, Muttonbird Island provides panoramic views of the ocean and is a prime vantage point for whale watching. Woolgoolga Headland. Just north of Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga Headland offers elevated views, making it one of the best spots for observing whales breaching close to shore. Look At Me Now Headland (Emerald Beach) This coastal headland is not only famous for its free-roaming kangaroos but also provides excellent whale watching opportunities during the migration season. Sawtell Headland. Located just south of Coffs Harbour, Sawtell Headland offers grassy picnic spots with both northern and southern views, ideal for spotting migrating whales. The Observatory Apartments. If you would prefer the comfort of home, sitting on your own private balcony spotting the whales as they cruise past the harbour. Whale Watching Tours Whale Watch Experience Operating from June to November, they offer daily cruises at 8:30 am and 11:00 am aboard the "Pacific Explorer," accommodating up to 23 guests for an intimate experience . Jetty Dive Known for their super fast and comfortable boat "Mega Wild," they provide adventure whale watch trips, getting you to the whales quickly and ensuring a thrilling experience, offering 2 - 3 trips a day. If you are brave enough you can also swim with the giants of the sea with Jetty Dive. Whether you're a local or a visitor, witnessing the humpback whale migration in Coffs Harbour is an unforgettable experience. From the serene vantage points on land to the exhilarating boat tours, there's an option for everyone to connect with these magnificent creatures. Don't forget to bring your binoculars, camera, and a sense of wonder as you partake in this annual natural spectacle. Book your next stay with us in our Ocean View Apartments or Ocean View Studios and we will put binoculars in your room for the best viewing from your balcony.