Coffs Harbour is famed for its Big Banana, its beaches, and its rainforest. The swimming is magnificent, and the fish are almost always jumping. There are also beautiful nature trails to explore and whale watching cruises to enjoy. Adventure seekers can get a rush from whitewater rafting on the Nymboida River, while the sophisticates amongst us can kick back and relax with a holiday cocktail or well-chilled glass of white at one of Coffs Harbour's resorts or open-air bistros.

The nearby World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National rewards visitors with spectacular mountain views and a rich pioneer experience. Ride the Plantation Train at the Big Banana, an enduring icon of Australian tourism. Snorkel or scuba dive in the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Enjoy a whale-watching cruise.

Chill out on the waterfront. Visit the World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park. Get up early to buy fresh seafood from the fish co-op. Tee off from one of the international standard golf courses. Be one of the first to experience the thrill of 'surf rafting' off the beach. Brush the dolphin's teeth or be kissed by a seal at the Pet Porpoise Pool. Most of all, rediscover your sense of fun.

Forget those bunches of bent yellow fruit for a moment – there’s much more to discover on Coffs Coast. Let’s start by looking towards the sea – migrating humpbacks pass close to the coast, making this one of the best places in Australia to observe whales, from a cruise boat or from dry land.

Coffs Coast is dotted with high headlands and bluffs – all perfect locations for whale watching. An easy stroll from Coffs Harbour Marina is Muttonbird Island, a popular vantage point. Other good locations include Scotts Head with its new viewing platform, Boambee Head, Hungry Head and lookout points at Nambucca Heads.

The Solitary Islands Marine Park protects the underwater ecosystems that sustain the region’s rich marine life. The islands and ocean are a magnificent sight from the deck of a cruise boat, but an even more exciting option is to venture beneath the waves. Expert local diving and fishing charter operators can help you explore the watery wilderness – from the surface with a snorkel, or diving deeper with scuba gear. Closer to the shore, Pacific rollers wash across a string of golden beaches – who could come to Coffs Coast without cracking a wave?

At the end of a perfect Coffs Coast day, there’s a wide range of places to stay – pamper yourself in a beachside resort, enjoy a warm welcome in a cheerful B&B or catch up with other travellers in one of our friendly backpacker hostels. Ready to eat' Fresh local seafood is a highlight, whether it’s à la carte at a seaside bistro or served with chips and a wedge of lemon at the Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-Op.

Looking for more holiday ideas?

Stroll along the Skywalk high above the forest canopy in Dorrigo National Park and explore the deep green of the magnificent World Heritage rainforest; paddle a canoe through the mangroves on a quiet river; browse for local art & craft in a Bellingen craft shop; say hi to the seals and dolphins at the Pet Porpoise Pool in Coffs Harbour; grab a beer at the original Pub With No Beer!