Map & Town Guide
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Waterfall Way Towns Coff's Harbour
It is little wonder such a diverse range of tourists include a stay in Coffs Harbour. Known as the one of only two regions in Australia where the mountains reach down to the sea the area also boasts the most temperate climate in Australia. Coffs Harbour is not just a sparkling sea side holiday retreat, although it is most certainly that too, it also offers more adrenalin packed activities than any other one destination between Sydney and Brisbane. Given its ideal location, just six hours driving from Sydney, five from Brisbane and two to three hours from New England it is easily reached while offering the best of the coast and the hinterland.

The range of accommodation provided covers everything from backpacker (backpackers love the area because of the wide range of activities and attractions) bunks, camping and caravan establishments, bed and breakfast operations, self contained motels through to a number of fine resorts. School holiday and long weekend periods place high demand on accommodation, but generally outside of those times the full range is available with rates that will generally please.

Once in Coffs Harbour visitors are tempted with an array of activities so comprehensive they frequently have to extend their stay to fit in all they would like to see and do. Beginning with the more sedate the area boasts seventeen beaches for either lazing, swimming or surfing, a museum showing regional history, a fully restored jetty, a host of fine eating establishments, a number of 'watering holes' for the refreshing beer, a meal or perhaps to catch some entertainment. Active sports fans can participate at a numerous local venues and golfers can enjoy a large number of choices including resort courses, the 27 hole centrally situated Coffs Harbour Golf Club or the renowned Bonville International course. A specially prepared colour booklet showing our golf courses has been prepared and is available to intending visitors.

The Solitary Islands Marine Park is right on our doorstep and a number of different activities are based around this unique area. Coffs Harbour is proving to be one of the best locations for viewing whales, both from the land or from one of the professionally operated whale watching trips. The 2001 season was tremendously successful with very high percentages of trips seeing whales, and it is most encouraging to read our 2002 season is off to a great start. Whale watch operators have been requested to support our Marine Park management authorities by submitting details of whales seen, their location and any other relevant factors so a reliable profile of the annual migration can be compiled.
Fishing is also a favourite activity. Beach, reef and game fishing are all catered for with regular launch trips leaving the marina each morning and returning around midday. Dive operators look after those seeking aquatic adventure and also operate very competitive learn-to-dive ticket courses. The waters in the Marine Park present a merging of temperate and sub-tropical, affording the chance to view many different marine species.
White water rafting and sea kayaking are two other very popular water activities.

The spectacular mountain top World Heritage listed Dorrigo Rainforest, the city's botanical gardens and local forests ensure those interested in flora and fauna are also well catered for.

The rejuvenated City Centre retail precinct (outdoor dining has taken on a whole new meaning) and the Park Beach Plaza/Home Base complexes will ensure the opportunity to shop is not lost during any visit, while tourist icons such as the Big Banana and the Pet Porpoise Pool ensure the children are not forgotten. The Big Banana is putting the final touches to their indoor ski slope. This will add yet another exciting activity for our visitors, both young and old.

The Coffs Coast Visitors Information Centre is looking forward to the installation of two new features in the upcoming months. The first is a panel display and wall map being produced by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. This imposing display will provide information on Coastal Reserves, Hinterland Forests and the Solitary Island Marine Park. The other is a Landsat Image featuring shots taken from a satellite, so it incorporates latest technology. The area shown will cover from South West Rocks to the Queensland border and inland.
The staff of the VIC are looking forward to both installations knowing they will enhance the overall information capabilities.

Solid bookings are being received for the NSW Masters Games being held in Coffs Harbour over September 12 to 15 inclusive. Also receiving strong bookings is the Australian Veterans Golf Tournament being held in here in November. To book accommodation or activities for these or any other visit simply call the VIC toll free on 1300 369 070 or e-mail us on tourism@coffscoast.com.au