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

Luke Young • June 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. 

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.

Coffs Harbour - Best Eco - Tourism Destination in New South Wales

By The Observatory • April 19, 2025
Coffs Coast has been globally recognised as an ECO Destination by Ecotourism Australia, surrounded by lush, heritage-listed national parks that form part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, and the Solitary Island Marine Park. Solitary Island Marine Park One of Coffs Harbour’s crown jewels is the Solitary Islands Marine Park , the oldest and one of the largest marine parks in New South Wales. Stretching over 75 km of pristine coastline, this protected area is where tropical and temperate waters meet creating one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in Australia. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside turtles, rays, and over 500 species of fish, or take a whale-watching cruise during the migration season. This marine sanctuary is not only a dream for underwater adventurers, but also a prime example of sustainable marine conservation in action. Heritage Listed National Parks Beyond the coastline, Coffs Harbour is surrounded by lush, heritage-listed national parks that form part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Some must-visit spots include: Bindarri National Park - A remote and rugged escape with rainforest-cloaked valleys and crystal-clear creeks perfect for bushwalking and picnicking. Bongil Bongil National Park - A coastal forest where you can spot koalas in the treetops and paddle through mangrove-lined estuaries. Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve - Muttonbird Island offers spectacular views of the Solitary Islands and is great spot for whale watching in the heart of Coffs Harbour. Rich Aboriginal Cultural connections Eco-tourism here goes hand-in-hand with respect for Indigenous culture. Visitors can take part in authentic cultural experiences with Gumbaynggirr guides. Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours - Stand up paddle boarding exploring the creeks and wetlands on Gumbaynggirr country. Walk along the Gumgali Track at Sealy Lookout, which tells Dreaming stories through art and interpretive signage. Whether you're hiking through ancient rainforests, swimming in clear blue waters, or learning about the deep cultural roots of the region, Coffs Harbour offers an eco-holiday that nourishes both the soul and the planet. Travel light, tread gently, and let nature lead the way on the Coffs Coast.