Stress Free Christmas on Holidays: Tips for a festive Christmas Holiday

The Observatory • November 16, 2024

The holiday season is a time for relaxation, fun, and family bonding—but it can also be a little hectic if you’re away from home. Christmas brings its own unique set of preparations. If you’re planning to spend Christmas with us, here are a few tips to help you enjoy your holiday and be Christmas-ready, even while you’re away.

  • Christmas Lunch. 

Christmas meals are a cherished tradition, and you can keep this alive, even while away on holidays. If you are preparing Christmas lunch here at our apartments its a good idea to check what room type you are in. Our apartments are fully self contained with a full kitchen equipped with cooking utensils. Our studios have less in the way of Kitchens with only a stove top and small fridge.

If a BBQ lunch is more your style we have 2 BBQ areas for guests to use, if you are in a townhouse you have your own BBQ on your balcony, or if you prefer a  carefree picnic at any one of the idyllic locations close to our apartments. We have picnic baskets available at reception with all the picnic utensils you will need. You just need to fill it with amazing food and drinks. The Platter Effect can help you with an amazing spread for your picnic and we can point you in the right direction for the perfect spot.

If its a fresh Coffs Harbour seafood lunch you will be enjoying on Christmas day. The Fishing Co Op is the best place to get your freshest seafood. Get your orders in and get there early to avoid disappointment. 

  •  Fill the Fridge with holiday goodies before you arrive.

Keep in mind most shops are closed on Christmas day, There is nothing worse than arriving to your destination after a long drive or flight and have to tackle the shops for groceries. If you would like to arrive with your fridge already filled with all your favorites, Simply do an online Coles or Woolworths order and have it delivered to reception on the day of arrival. Please choose between 2pm - 5pm for drop off and we can have your food put in your fridge for you in your apartment. Please contact our reception before placing order.

  • Decorations.

Just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean you can’t get festive. We love Christmas here and put a small Christmas tree in each apartment to make it feel a bit more festive while your away. If you would like to bring some tinsel or a strand of lights to give it a more personnel touch you are more than welcome too, just because you are away from home doesn't mean you cant get festive.

  • Santa's Deliveries.

If you have presents that need storing away from prying eyes, we have a guest locker where you can store bulky gifts. Please arrange with reception for pick up on Christmas Eve.

  • Don't forget to relax.

Christmas is all about joy and togetherness, so remember to keep things simple and savor the day. Whether you're indulging in a chilled seafood feast, grazing on antipasto platters, or enjoying a BBQ with ocean views, the most important part is to relax and enjoy your holiday.


If you have not booked your Christmas Holiday with us yet, We only have a couple of spots left. Check out availability here!

Coffs Harbour Corporate Accommodation

By The Observatory • September 11, 2025
Premium Jetty Location Our enviable position near the Coffs Harbour Jetty puts you at the heart of convenience. After a long day of meetings or site visits, you can step outside and enjoy a refreshing walk along the Jetty foreshore. For dining , you’ll be surrounded by some of the city’s best cafés, restaurants, and bars — perfect for a quick morning coffee, relaxed dinner, or hosting a client meeting in a more casual setting. Spacious Corporate Apartments Designed for Work and Comfort Unlike traditional hotels, our corporate apartments in Coffs Harbour are designed to help you both work efficiently and relax comfortably. Each apartment features: Work desks to keep you productive on the go Separate dining spaces that double as a meeting or project space Large windows and private balconies, filling your apartment with natural light and fresh ocean breezes Full kitchens, giving you the flexibility to cook your own meals if you prefer Our apartments are also generously sized, making them a perfect option if family want to visit you while you’re away working. This added space ensures your stay feels less like a hotel and more like a welcoming home. Corporate Rates and Flexible Benefits We understand the needs of business travellers and companies, which is why we offer tailored corporate benefits: Flat corporate rates for approved guests, making travel budgeting simple and predictable No minimum stays — whether you’re in town for one night or several weeks, we’ve got you covered No block-out dates, so you’ll always have access to your corporate rate when you need to travel Your Home for Business Travel in Coffs Harbour At The Observatory Apartments, we combine the comfort of spacious, fully equipped apartments with the practicality of flexible corporate rates. Whether you’re here for a short-term project, a client visit, or an extended business trip, our accommodation provides the perfect balance of work, relaxation, and convenience. Discover why so many professionals choose us for corporate accommodation in Coffs Harbour — where business travel feels more like home. Reach out to our team HERE to book your corporate stays with us.

Your Perfect Spring Escape

By The Observatory • August 26, 2025
Friday Afternoon - Settle in & Twilight Markets Arrive in Coffs Harbour and check into your apartment overlooking the ocean. After a relaxed afternoon on your balcony, head to Muttonbird Island for a short walk that rewards you with sweeping views of the Solitary Islands. As the sun dips, keep an eye out for whales still migrating along the coast – spring is one of the best times of year for sightings. Finish the evening at the Twilight Food Markets along the foreshore. Enjoy live music, sample dishes from around the world, and soak up the laid-back seaside atmosphere. Saturday – Nature, Adventures and Dinner at Stef & Co Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at one of the local cafés before heading off to explore. Nature lovers will enjoy a stroll through the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens , bursting with colourful spring blooms. For something a little more adventurous, take a trike tour and visit the waterfalls and scenic headlands In the afternoon, wander through Coffs Central for boutique shopping and local produce. In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at Stef & Co , a contemporary dining spot showcasing fresh, seasonal flavours in a relaxed yet stylish setting overlooking Coffs Creek the perfect way to end your Saturday in Coffs. Sunday – Slow Down & Soak It In On your final morning, take a leisurely walk along the beach and visit the Harbourside Markets for unique finds and tasty treats. If time allows, squeeze in a visit to the Solitary Islands Aquarium or simply relax with a coffee in hand, soaking up the spring sunshine before the journey home. Why Spring is the Best Time to Visit Pleasant temperatures perfect for both outdoor adventures and lazy afternoons. Whale watching season still in full swing. Markets, festivals, and events adding colour and energy to the town. Fewer crowds than the peak summer holidays. A spring weekend in Coffs Harbour is all about balance, exploring, relaxing, and enjoying the beauty of the coast. Whether you’re here for adventure or simply to unwind, it’s the kind of place where memories are made. Make your spring getaway extra special by staying with us at The Observatory Apartments - with spacious rooms, ocean views, and the Jetty right on your doorstep, it’s the perfect base for your weekend escape. Book your stay today and start planning your spring adventure!