Coffs Harbour

The Big Banana is an iconic Australian landmark, standing five metres high and stretching 11 metres long. But there's more to this attraction than just bananas: visit the Big Banana Fun Park, packed with rides and activities for the whole family. Enjoy the toboggan ride, laser tag arena, ice-skating rink, inflatable water park, candy-making kitchen, nursery, and a gift shop filled with quirky souvenirs.

The spectacular coastline around Coffs Harbour is one of the best locations on the East Coast of Australia for watching humpback whales on their annual migration from May to November. Hop on a cruise to see these magnificent mammals up close, or head to one of the coastal headlands to watch them swim by. The Rotary Lookout and Captain Cook Lookout in Nambucca Heads have superb ocean views including over the mouth of the Nambucca River. In nearby Bongil Bongil National Park, Sawtell Headland is famous for frequent sightings.

The Solitary Islands Marine Park is the third largest marine protected area in New South Wales, covering a total area of 71,000 hectares and stretching along 75 kilometres of coastline from Coffs Harbour north to the Sandon River mouth. The park is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, including tropical, temperate, and sub-tropical species of fish, coral, and algae, making it a major attraction for divers. Signage throughout the park indicates where specific activities such as diving, fishing, and collecting are permitted. Within its boundaries, the marine park includes tidal waters, estuaries, beaches, and headlands, all protected by a special zoning scheme designed to conserve fish habitats and preserve the area's natural beauty.

Yarrawarra is located in the homelands of the Garby Elders and the Gumbaynggirr people, surrounded by tranquil bushland, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. The Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre features a first-rate Bush Tucker Cafe, an exceptional Indigenous art gallery, cultural programs, accommodation, an events centre, and a Cultural Heritage Research Unit. Special events include Aboriginal art classes, Gumbaynggirr language classes, storytelling sessions, dance performances and workshops, clay modelling, traditional basket weaving, and guided tours of Aboriginal sites. The Wadjar Regional Indigenous Art Gallery showcases the works of regional Indigenous artists, artisans, and craftspeople. It is also home to the Annual Saltwater Freshwater Indigenous Art Award. The gallery features an extensive collection of traditional and contemporary arts and crafts, as well as books, clothing, CDs, and gifts, all produced locally.

The ever-popular Diggers Beach is perfectly situated for tourists — right across the road from Coffs Harbour’s Big Banana. Wide and sheltered, Diggers Beach is ideal for a peaceful, wind-free walk along the shore. It’s not just visitors who love this beach; locals also flock here for surfing, fishing, and swimming. If you prefer to stay dry, take a seat at the elevated pavilion to admire the stunning views and watch the birds, or stroll along the short pathway to Macauleys Headland. When you’re ready for a break from the surf, head to the nearby Diggers Beach picnic area. With a children’s playground and plenty of space to run around, it’s the perfect spot for a family barbecue.

Curryfest celebrates the unique Punjabi heritage of Woolgoolga, which is immediately noticeable from the Sikh temple on the hill as you enter town. For the past twelve years, thousands have flocked to this beachside town to enjoy Indian music and dance, and to sample curries from around the world. The main festival day features over 100 food and market stalls, a special kids’ zone with rides and entertainment, a mindfulness and meditation zone for those seeking inner peace, and two stages of live entertainment. In addition to the main festival day, an increasing number of lead-up and follow-on events are encouraging visitors to extend their stay.

Meet Bucky and other dolphins at Dolphin Marine Magic and enjoy their fun and exciting routines. You can even swim with a dolphin or a seal at this beautiful zoological park, which is also home to little penguins, green sea turtles, freshwater turtles, and a variety of fish. There are two Marine Discovery Presentations each day. Arrive early to get your photo taken while receiving kisses from a dolphin and a seal. There's also a penguin feeding session, and for the brave, a reptile show.