Coffs Harbour - NSW's most underrated destination.

We had grabbed cheap fares on Tiger, with the aim for flying to meet up on the coast with friends from the country. When they cancelled, we decided to see if the weather was going to be sunny before deciding if we went away for the weekend, as neither of us had particular interest in a weekend in Coffs Harbour.

With sunshine forecast, we decided we may as well go, booked a 3 bedroom unit at the Novotel,   so we could eat in if we wanted to, as we often prefer to self cater rather than pay for bad food.

We only had hand luggage, and armed with our boarding passes, the airport process was simple. We arrived in Coffs Harbour, an easy 45 minute flight later, and headed up to Bellingen for lunch. A meandering half hour drive through the pretty countryside lead us to this pretty hub of cafes and restaurants.


We ate at 5 Church Street, an establishment that promotes local produce, and then well sated, headed back for an afternoon on the beach. A mere two minutes on foot from our room, we alternated between beach and pool before heading to the Jetty for dinner.

The next morning, the kids took advantage of the activities package offered in the resort by Time Out Adventures. They played on the Action Zone, then walked on water in the OzBubbles and finally, rode around the resort on Segways. They were thrilled and I got to read my book in peace, so win/win all round!

Then we headed up the coast to explore some of the beautiful beaches. Emerald Beach was our first stop. This beach is huge, and beautiful, and for a Sunday, amazingly empty. There were only a few other people walking the beach.

The other reason why Emerald Beach is a must visit destination when in Coffs Harbour, is Saltwater Café and Restaurant. It is excellent - the ambience is laidback cool, with magnificent views of the beach. We went for lunch, but on Sundays from 3pm, they offer chilled out live music, for those that want to relax and while away the afternoon. It is little wonder they've won the awards that they have adoring their wall. We just opted for burgers which seemed a little of a waste, given the standard of presentation on the finer dining menu options. However, this lunch was the highlight of the weekend, incorporating all that is on offer in this region.






After a sensational lunch, our merry band moved on to Sapphire Beach, yet another picturesque beauty with perhaps four other people on the sands.

After another dip, we headed home and I was still full from lunch so took myself off on a small portion of the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk - from Diggers Beach, over the headland to Charlesworth Bay. This is only about 2kms of the 26 kms walk, but it is lovely, and perfect for those with limited time or energy.

The next morning, we were sad to leave, but manage a little more beach time before lunch at the Jetty - yet another cool little café, with great food. Old John's had been bustling with the dinner crowd on the Saturday night, so we were pleased to be squeezed in for our last lunch. Really tasty food with a kitchen that's inventive with their ingredients. While no view, I'd put this on your 'must dine' list.

Finally, an easy flight home. We have driven up the coast for many a weekend away, but if you can keep an eye on the airfare sales, I would make Coffs Harbour your regular escape from Sydney. It takes less time to get there, less stress and realistically, only a little more than the cost of a tank of fuel.

If unspoilt, empty beaches and nature aren't your thing, there are plenty of tourist activities, museums, aquariums and other places of interest to explore. Diving, obviously is another popular pastime of the area.

Another thing I noticed was how friendly everyone was - at first I was a little taken aback when every person I passed, guests not staff, would bid me good morning or have a little chat of pleasantries. Clearly my inner city crankiness was not accustomed to such open friendliness. By the end of the weekend, I too, was bidding fellow journeymen a good day. I am guessing, as the bulk of the tourism is coming from the country, some of that country etiquette comes with it. Or maybe it's just that people are so happy and relaxed that the joyousness pervades their interactions. Either way, there was a moment when I looked inside myself and thought perhaps a little change could be made. That is the true sign that a holiday, no matter how short, has worked it's magic.

The weekend in Coffs Harbour exceeded all my expectations, and the region has a charm that will win you over, making you wish to return. On the way home, we puzzled why we'd never gone before. No surprises we're already planning our next visit there!


Further Reading:
Saltwater Café & Restaurant http://www.weekendnotes.com/saltwater-cafe-and-restaurant/

Linking with #SkyWatch and #GalleriaHimmelsblick for the photos