Areas: where to base yourself
- The jetty: restaurants and the foreshore.
- Park Beach: close to town, with motels and apartments.
- Korora and Sapphire: beach resorts north of town.
- Sawtell: a village atmosphere to the south.
Food and drink
Fresh seafood from the fishing fleet, bananas and berries from the hinterland, and cafés along the Jetty Strip and in Sawtell. Bellingen has an excellent weekend market.
Money-saving tips
- Coffs is cheaper than Byron Bay and many coastal resorts.
- Beaches, Muttonbird Island and Dorrigo are free.
- Look for family deals at resorts outside the school holidays.
Safety and practicalities
Swim at patrolled beaches between the flags. The road to Dorrigo is steep and winding. Leeches are common in the rainforest after rain.
Sample plans
One day
Walk the jetty and out to Muttonbird Island, lunch at the marina, then a beach afternoon.
Two days
Drive to Dorrigo National Park for the Skywalk and waterfalls, returning via Bellingen.
Three days
Add a kayak or snorkel trip in the marine park, or a whale cruise in season, and a visit to the Big Banana with children.
