THE NORTH COAST
The North Coast of New South Wales is a ribbon of paradise, stretching from the temperate Mid-North Coast to the tropical Far North, defined by stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and a relaxed, creative spirit.
This coastal region is a mosaic of rainforests, surf breaks, and charming seaside towns. It’s a journey that takes you from historic settlements to the bohemian heart of Australian beach culture.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Landmarks & Coastal Highlights:
Byron Bay Lighthouse (Cape Byron Light): The most easterly point of the Australian mainland, offering spectacular views and excellent whale watching during migration season.
Dorrigo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest with stunning waterfalls, skywalks, and walking tracks near Coffs Harbour.
Big Banana Fun Park: A quintessential piece of Australian kitsch and one of the country’s first “Big Things” located in Coffs Harbour.
Fingal Head Causeway & Lighthouse: A dramatic coastal walk to a basalt rock formation and a lighthouse near the NSW/QLD border.
Crescent Head: Famous for its long, world-renowned right-hand surf break and stunning National Park scenery.
Smoky Cape Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse near South West Rocks, offering panoramic coastal views and a chance to spot migrating whales.
Mount Warning (Wollumbin): A prominent shield volcano remnant in the hinterland, historically significant and offering challenging hiking (note: climbing is discouraged by local Indigenous custodians).
Seal Rocks Lighthouse (Sugarloaf Point): A picturesque and remote lighthouse known for its beautiful surrounding beaches.
Beaches & Natural Wonders:
Main Beach, Byron Bay: A popular, central beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing, close to the town’s amenities.
Sawtell Beach: A family-friendly beach near Coffs Harbour, featuring a beautiful headland and protected ocean pool.
Shelly Beach: Located in Tacking Point, Port Macquarie, known for its protected waters and a beautiful walking trail.
The Crystal Caves: Near Glen Innes in the New England area (often included in North Coast drives), a vast collection of crystals and geodes.
Nambucca Heads: The spot where the Nambucca River meets the ocean, featuring the scenic V-Wall (a painted rock wall).
Hat Head National Park: A secluded coastal park known for excellent fishing, camping, and walking trails.
Brunswick Heads: A charming, quieter alternative to Byron Bay, with a beautiful river and estuary.
Towns & Cultural Attractions:
The Macleay Museum, Kempsey: A regional museum showcasing local history, agriculture, and Indigenous culture.
Historic Port Macquarie: Explore the old jail, courthouse, and the history of one of Australia’s first penal settlements.
Bellingen: A vibrant, alternative, and artistic town nestled in the Bellinger River Valley.
Lismore Regional Gallery: A contemporary art space showcasing regional, national, and international works.
Maclean (The Scottish Town of Australia): Known for its painted power poles displaying Scottish tartans and its annual Highland Gathering.
Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre: A major regional gallery featuring a permanent recreation of artist Margaret Olley’s famous home studios.
Yamba: A popular fishing town at the mouth of the Clarence River, with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Nimbin: A quirky, alternative village famous for its counter-culture history and vibrant, unique atmosphere.
Boambee Headland & Creek: A scenic spot near Coffs Harbour, great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and family picnics.
Activities & Experiences
Go Whale Watching: From May to November, take a boat tour from ports like Port Macquarie or Byron Bay to witness the annual migration of Humpback Whales. A truly unforgettable experience.
Learn to Surf at Byron Bay: Take a beginner’s lesson on the gentle waves of Main Beach or The Pass. Numerous surf schools offer half-day and full-day instruction.
Hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse: Walk the Cape Byron Walking Track to Australia’s easternmost point. The panoramic views of the coastline are stunning, and you might spot dolphins or whales.
Explore the Nightcap National Park: Hike the ancient rainforest trails to the breathtaking Minyon Falls. This is a must-do for nature lovers and photographers.
Kayak or Paddleboard on a Solitary Island: Join a guided tour around the Solitary Islands Marine Park (near Coffs Harbour) to kayak alongside dolphins, sea turtles, and explore pristine coral reefs.
Drive the Waterfall Way: Take a scenic drive inland from Coffs Harbour, stopping at stunning waterfalls, lookout points, and charming hinterland towns like Bellingen and Dorrigo.
Visit a Local Farmer’s Market: Experience the vibrant fresh produce and artisan goods at a market in towns like Mullumbimby, Bellingen, or Lismore for a taste of local life.
Take a Scenic Walk in a Rainforest Skywalk: Visit the Dorrigo National Park or the Sea Acres National Park (Port Macquarie) to walk above the canopy on an elevated boardwalk.
Snorkel or Dive at Julian Rocks Nguthungulli Nature Reserve: Known as one of Australia’s best temperate diving spots, you can swim with leopard sharks (in summer), grey nurse sharks (in winter), turtles, and rays off the coast of Byron Bay.
Visit the Big Banana: Stop at the iconic Big Banana Fun Park in Coffs Harbour for a quintessential Australian roadside attraction photo opportunity and some fun activities.
Explore the Hastings River Oyster Farms: Take a tour of an oyster farm near Port Macquarie, learn about the local aquaculture, and enjoy a tasting of freshly shucked oysters.
Relax on Seven Mile Beach: Spend a day at this long, uncrowded stretch of sand near Lennox Head, popular for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent views.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for Flexibility: The North Coast stretches hundreds of kilometers. A rental car is the best way to link the major hubs (Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay) and explore the hinterland, national parks, and hidden beaches.
Highways: The Pacific Highway (A1/M1) is the main thoroughfare, but for scenic travel, use the smaller coastal roads and bypasses.
Tolls: Be aware that some sections of the freeway approaching the North Coast, or around Sydney/Brisbane if driving from there, may have electronic tolls (e-TAG is recommended).
Intra-Region Travel:
Regional Buses: Companies like Premier Motor Service and Greyhound run services along the coast, connecting the major towns. This is a good option for budget travel but offers less flexibility.
Trains: The NSW TrainLink XPT service runs along the main northern line, connecting places like Sydney to Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, and Grafton. It’s scenic but often slower than driving.
Local Transport (in towns): Byron Bay is very walkable and has a solar-powered railway. Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie rely on local bus networks and taxis/rideshares for movement outside the main CBD.
From Major Cities:
Flights: Direct flights are available from Sydney and Melbourne to regional airports such as Port Macquarie (PQQ), Coffs Harbour (CFS), and Ballina Byron Gateway (BNK), making access quick and easy.
Beach Safety: Australia’s beaches are world-class, but always swim between the red and yellow flags. This area is patrolled by surf lifesavers. Be aware of rips and strong currents, and check signage for local marine life warnings.
Embrace the Wellness Culture: The Far North Coast, particularly around Byron Bay, is a hub for alternative lifestyles, yoga, and organic/whole-foods movements. Expect a relaxed, bohemian, and eco-conscious atmosphere.
Indigenous Heritage: The North Coast is rich in Aboriginal culture. Aboriginal Cultural Centres can be found in places like Nambucca Heads or Coffs Harbour. Always be respectful when visiting sacred sites or national parks, and look for opportunities to learn about the local Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung, and Worimi nations.
Dining Times: Dinner service usually begins around 6 PM and often wraps up by 9 PM in regional towns. Booking ahead, especially on weekends and in Byron Bay, is essential.
Hidden Gems:
Brunswick Heads: A quieter, more low-key alternative to its famous neighbor, Byron Bay. It offers a beautiful river mouth, charming retro shops, and excellent seafood.
Hat Head National Park: Near Port Macquarie, this park offers a stunning combination of dramatic coastal cliffs, untouched beaches, and tranquil wetlands, perfect for escaping the crowds.
Bellingen: Located in the hinterland, this quirky, artistic town is nestled by the Bellinger River and is known for its live music, markets, and bohemian vibe. A great stop on the Waterfall Way.
Crescent Head: A renowned, relaxed surfing village with one of the longest right-hand point breaks in the world, popular with longboarders.
Language: English is the primary language. The Aussie accent and slang can sometimes be a challenge, so don’t be afraid to politely ask someone to repeat themselves. G’day (hello) and No worries (it’s okay/you’re welcome) are common phrases.
Top Restaurants
The Stunned Mullet [$50-$80] – A highly-regarded, sophisticated waterfront restaurant in Port Macquarie, offering modern Australian cuisine with a strong focus on fresh, high-quality seafood and an impressive wine list.
Bistro Livi [$40-$60] – A humble, Spanish-influenced modern Australian gem in the art-deco town of Murwillumbah, offering simple, generous food and a thoughtful wine list, with a focus on local produce.
Paper Daisy at Halcyon House [$60-$90] – Located within a stylish beachside boutique hotel in Cabarita Beach, this restaurant champions sophisticated simplicity with coastal-inspired dishes and fresh, seasonal produce.
Shelter [$30-$50] – A popular Lennox Head favorite, located opposite Seven Mile Beach, focusing on ethically sourced, seasonal, and local produce for a relaxed yet high-quality breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Bills Fishhouse + Bar [$35-$60] – A chic and buzzing spot in Port Macquarie known for its excellent selection of fresh local seafood, offering a modern take on coastal dining.
The Deck at Pacific Hotel Yamba [$25-$45] – Offering arguably the best views in Yamba, this spot is a local go-to for great modern Australian pub-style food, fresh seafood, and a classic ocean-front dining experience.
Pipit Restaurant [$50-$80] – Located in Pottsville, this award-winning restaurant provides a unique regional fine-dining experience that intimately connects diners with local farmers and a coastal sense of place.
The Little General Newrybar [$15-$30] – Tucked away in the charming village of Newrybar (Byron hinterland), this local store/cafe is your go-to for superior coffee, fresh, healthy eats, and local produce.
Karrikin [$50-$80] – An elegant dining experience in Yamba, known for its exceptional modern Australian food with a strong emphasis on seasonal, locally sourced, and native ingredients.
The Tweed River House [$60-$90] – Housed in a magnificent, restored century-old homestead in Murwillumbah, this restaurant offers seasonal, contemporary fine dining with sweeping views of the river and hinterland.
Beach Byron Bay [$40-$70] – Located right on the waterfront overlooking Clarkes Beach, this venue offers tantalizing modern Australian meals and sensational seafood, using the best regional produce.
Drift [$30-$50] – An elegant Neapolitan-style pizzeria in Yamba that has amassed a loyal following for its high-end pizzas, using organic Australian flour, artisanal cheese, and excellent cocktails.
The Little Nel [$20-$40] – Considered Nelson Bay’s top cafe, offering great coffee and a modern menu for breakfast and lunch that uses quality local ingredients.
No. 35 Cabarita [$35-$55] – A modern Italian-ish kitchen and bar in Cabarita known for its quality food, amazing cocktails, and a chef who has returned to his roots after working in top Sydney venues.
Meribella [$40-$70] – An oceanfront restaurant in Terrigal (southern edge of the North Coast) featuring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an impressive glass conservatory with stunning coastal views.
Rick Stein at Bannisters Port Stephens [$60-$90] – The renowned seafood chef’s restaurant, offering fresh, local seafood simply cooked, celebrating coastal Australian flavors with a sophisticated touch.
The Fig Tree Restaurant & Rooms [$60-$90] – Set in an original farmhouse in Ewingsdale (Byron hinterland) overlooking the bay, this acclaimed restaurant uses produce straight from its own kitchen garden and thriving orchard.
Frida’s Field [$70-$100 (for long lunch)] – A regenerative farm-to-table restaurant in Nashua (Byron hinterland) specializing in curated long lunches, utilizing fresh seasonal produce from their ecological farm and the Northern Rivers region.
Potager – A Kitchen Garden [$40-$70] – A multi-award-winning farm-to-table restaurant in Carool (Tweed hinterland), set in a converted country cottage where produce is often plucked directly from the neighboring farm.
Mavis’s Kitchen [$30-$50] – Located at the base of Mount Warning/Wollumbin, this wholesome, country-style restaurant utilizes its own organic food gardens and offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a beautiful rural setting.
The Farm Byron Bay / Three Blue Ducks [$30-$50] – While popular, it is genuinely worthy. This is a working farm and community hub where paddock-to-plate dining meets regenerative agriculture, offering wholesome, seasonal fare.
Cedar Bar and Kitchen [$25-$45] – Nestled in the heart of Bellingen, this spot is known for its casual bar-style menu and creative food and drinks inspired by the surrounding hills and delicate nature.
Osteria il Coccia [$40-$70] – Located across from Ettalong Beach, this rustic fine diner is unique as its kitchen is built around a fire, with everything cooked exclusively over flames fueled by different timbers, giving dishes a distinct character.
Saddles Mount White [$30-$50] – A beautiful country-town bakery and restaurant channeling Americana ranch vibes, located at the very start of the North Coast (near Central Coast), perfect for a long, wine-fueled lunch featuring locally-sourced and on-property grown ingredients.
Walcha Bar and Grill [$25-$45] – A popular local spot in the inland town of Walcha, serving a wide variety of contemporary Australian goodness for both breakfast and lunch.
Restaurante La Casona de Calderón [$40-$60] – Located in a beautiful historic building in Osuna, this well-regarded restaurant offers a mix of traditional and refined cuisine.
Doma Cafe [$20-$40] – A popular spot in the village of Federal (Byron hinterland) serving top-notch Japanese food with a vibrant local atmosphere and outdoor seating.
Paradiso Restaurant & Bar [$35-$55] – A buzzing haven in Yamba known for its Asian-inspired fare, which fuses fresh local seafood with big, bold flavors, complemented by killer cocktails.
Taverna [$35-$55] – A vibrant Greek-inspired modern restaurant in Kingscliff, which feels like a slice of the Greek islands. It’s known for its delicious food, especially the Byron Bay halloumi with bush honey.
Lolita’s Cantina [$25-$45] – Located in Casuarina (Tweed), this cantina offers authentic Mexican dishes with contemporary twists, using fresh local ingredients, bringing the flavors of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula to the coast.
Za’atar Bellingen [$20-$40] – A Middle Eastern favorite in Bellingen, offering a rustic feel and delicious, authentic flavors.
Jashan Lounge [$20-$35] – A highly-rated Indian restaurant in Taree, known for its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere.
Spice Monkey [$20-$35] – A popular Asian restaurant in Forster known for its great food and lively atmosphere.
The Oyster Shed [$25-$45] – A riverside oyster bar and restaurant in Tweed Heads West, where you can sip drinks and enjoy incredibly fresh, locally-farmed oysters overlooking the Bingam Bay oyster farm.
Hungry Bears [$15-$30] – A local favorite in Coffs Harbour for casual, quality Japanese food.
Si Senorita [$20-$35] – A highly recommended Mexican restaurant in Forster, popular for its regional Mexican flavors.
Nyanggan Gapi [$15-$25] – An Aboriginal-owned cafe located in Orara East State Forest (Coffs Harbour Area) serving casual fare, with profits supporting community programs.
Golden Inn [$20-$35] – A well-loved local Chinese restaurant in Laurieton known for its traditional flavors and hearty meals.
Fins Restaurant and Bar [$70-$100] – Located in Kingscliff, this is one of Australia’s top regional restaurants, celebrating 32 years of serving sustainable, top-quality seafood dishes in a fine dining setting.
The Cowrie Restaurant [$60-$90] – Perched on a hill overlooking Terrigal Beach (southern edge), this fine diner offers a seasonal Modern Australian menu, warm service, and spectacular views, well-loved by locals for special occasions.
99 on Park [$50-$80] – A highly-regarded French restaurant in Coffs Harbour known for its excellent cuisine and fine dining experience.
Zentveld’s Coffee Farm and Roastery [Varies] – More of an experience than a restaurant, but worth visiting for its great coffee, stunning views, and insights into regenerative farming near Mount Warning.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Bolt Hole (Byron Bay): Tucked away on a street off the main Byron Bay strip, this rustic, New York loft-style bar offers an impressive list of international and local whiskies, plus expertly crafted cocktails in a moody, intimate setting.
Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. (Byron Bay): Overlooking the bustling streets from its perch in Byron Bay’s main hub, this breezy, Hamptons-style verandah bar is famous for its oyster hour and classic cocktails, providing a perfect spot for people-watching.
The Mez Club (Byron Bay): A Mediterranean-inspired cantina in central Byron Bay, this popular bar offers a holiday vibe with white walls, lush plants, and a creative cocktail menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and a strong selection of Spritzes.
Salt Bar (Kingscliff): Located right on the beach in the Tweed Coast suburb of Kingscliff, this modern hotel bar and restaurant offers stunning ocean views, great food, and a comprehensive drinks menu that includes a range of creative cocktails.
Bar Florian (Port Macquarie): An award-winning, Italian-inspired bar found on Clarence Street in Port Macquarie, known for its extensive wine list and a “mean cocktail or three.” It perfectly pairs sophisticated drinks with next-level antipasto plates and traditional Italian bar food.
Little Shack (Port Macquarie): Positioned al fresco on Port Macquarie’s iconic Breakwall overlooking the Hastings River, this spot has a new ‘Garden Bar’ with a 60s retro vibe, perfect for enjoying tropical-fringed umbrellas and cocktails by the water.
Zebu Bar & Restaurant (Port Macquarie): Situated on the ground floor of the Rydges hotel right on Port Macquarie’s Town Green, this sophisticated bar offers great views over the Hastings River, making it a classy spot for a pre-dinner cocktail or a late-night drink.
Stick Bar (Port Macquarie): A hidden gem nestled down a secret alley off Clarence Street in Port Macquarie, offering a unique yakitori and cocktail bar experience with Japanese-inspired tapas and visually stunning monthly cocktail specials.
Rocksalt At The Marina (Port Macquarie): A vibrant bar and restaurant located right on the Hastings River waterfront at Port Macquarie Marina, famous for its inventive cocktails, live music, and stunning sunset views over the water.
Element Bar (Coffs Harbour): A popular and stylish local watering hole in Coffs Harbour, offering a wide range of craft beers, good food, and a selection of cocktails in a relaxed, modern setting.
Cooly Breeze Rooftop Restaurant & Bar (Coolangatta/Tweed Heads Border): Although technically right on the border, this rooftop bar serves the Far North Coast crowd with its stunning views, extensive cocktail list, and sophisticated setting, perfect for sunset drinks.
The Bellingen Brewery & Co. (Bellingen): While its focus is on craft beer, this spot in the bohemian town of Bellingen also features a welcoming bar area and occasionally serves specialty mixed drinks or cocktails to complement its relaxed, local atmosphere.
Hello Sailor (Port Macquarie): Right on the water at Port Macquarie Marina, this spot has a friendly, buzzing vibe with local beer on tap and also serves refreshing, creative cocktails from its bar shack.
Mumbo’s Pizza’N’Pasta (Lismore): This Italian restaurant in Lismore features an exclusive spritz bar offering a selection of Italian cocktails, perfectly paired with their handcrafted pizzas and pastas.
Gather Yamba (Yamba): A great spot in Yamba for those looking for a modern-Australian dining experience which includes a well-curated beverage list, featuring classic and seasonal cocktails.
The Beach Hotel (Byron Bay): An iconic, beachfront pub that transforms into a lively nightspot in Byron Bay. While a pub, its huge courtyard, main bar, and often late hours with live music and DJ sets make it a central club-like hub for dancing and socialising.
The Rails (Byron Bay): Officially the Byron Bay Railway Friendly Bar, this legendary local spot hosts live music seven nights a week and, while essentially a pub, its open-air, high-energy atmosphere and late operating hours make it a primary destination for dancing and a “club-alternative” night out.
Byron Bay Services Club (Byron Bay): A large, classic “services club” that features bars, live entertainment, and function spaces which often host high-energy tribute nights, discos, and other events that cater to a late-night crowd looking to dance.
Byron Bay Brewery (Byron Bay): While primarily a brewery, this venue in Byron Bay often hosts touring DJs, large parties, and late-night music events in its vast space and beer garden, giving it a club-like atmosphere on weekends and special occasions.
The Hoey Moey Hotel (Coffs Harbour): A popular, long-standing hotel in Coffs Harbour known for its budget accommodation, huge outdoor beer garden, and, crucially, its nightly entertainment which includes live bands, DJs, and theme nights, operating as a primary destination for late-night drinking and dancing.
Plantation Hotel (Coffs Harbour): A well-known pub and entertainment venue in Coffs Harbour that frequently hosts live music and DJ sets on weekends, turning into a high-energy spot popular with a younger crowd looking for a club experience.
C.ex Coffs (Coffs Harbour): The Coffs Ex-Services Club is one of the region’s main entertainment centers. It features multiple bars, often hosts large-scale tribute shows and live acts, and has function spaces that turn into lively dance floors for various events.
Great Northern Hotel (Byron Bay): A classic, historic pub in central Byron Bay that features a legendary band room. On weekend nights, it’s one of the area’s main venues for live music and dancing, often hosting both major and emerging acts, which makes it a vibrant late-night club alternative.
Crescent Head Tavern (Crescent Head): Known as a classic surf town pub on the Mid-North Coast, it frequently hosts live music and DJs in its large bar area, making it a high-energy local spot for a dance and a late night out, particularly popular with surfers and holidaymakers.
Club North Haven (North Haven): Overlooking the Camden Haven River, this traditional club provides year-round entertainment, including live music, and features a Paradise Bar and Function Room that often hosts parties and events with a lively atmosphere.