With The Observatory, It’s All About The Location!

Luke Young • Jun 21, 2022

For many travellers that head to Coffs Harbour over the year, they love to be close to everything! From the beautiful beaches, to the fantastic restaurants and stunning creek walks, Coffs really does have it all.

Which is why The Observatory is the perfect choice for your next trip to Coffs! As the title says, it’s ALL about the location, and we are located amongst it all! To show you just how close we are to everything, we’ve compiled a list of places you can walk in under 5, 10 and 15 minutes and the same for driving.

Walking

Under 5 minutes

After a big day out exploring and sightseeing, you’ll want nothing more than to get cosy at a restaurant for dinner and we highly recommend Fiasco Restaurant, located 5 minute’s walk from The Observatory. With a warm and cosy atmosphere and delicious meals on offer, you’ll stay warm while you debrief the day and share wonderful holiday stories.

Under 10 minutes

Coffs Creek Walk – 8 minutes

By heading to the corner of Mildura Street and Harbour Drive, you’ll stumble across the Coffs Creek walking track. It’s 8 minutes walk away and it’s a beautiful walk. There’s also a few spots of green where you could roll out the picnic blanket and soak in the serenity.

Under 15 minutes

Muttonbird Island Lookout

Miss this and you’re missing out on an iconic piece of Coffs. This trek starts at the marina and ends on top of the outfacing cliffside of Muttonbird Island, surrounded by ocean. You may even catch glimpse of a whale!

Driving

Under 5 minutes

Dolphin Marine Conservation Park

The Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is just a mere 3 minutes drive from us! Experience marine animals close up, discover the animal and conservation programs and be inspired to act responsibly every day to care for our marine wildlife.

Under 10 minutes

When people think of Coffs Harbour, they almost immediately think of the Big Banana! And, as it’s located less than 10 minutes from The Observatory, it’s the perfect choice for a day trip! From laser tag to waterslides, toboggans and more – it’s THE place to visit in Coffs Harbour and for good reason.

Under 15 minutes

Want to get out of Coffs for the day, but don’t want to be stuck in the car for too long? Then Sawtell is a great choice! From pristine beaches, hip cafes and a gorgeous national park, Sawtell is perfect for a day trip. Activities are endless and you could find yourself shopping on First Avenue, kayaking or doing some bush walking in Bongil Bongil National Park.

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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. 🐰🌴