North Coast Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and buildings in the background.
A wooden pier extending into a turquoise sea with a clear blue sky.
A marina with several boats docked, a pier with people walking, and a distant view of a town and mountains.
A wooden bridge with metal railings, surrounded by lush green mountains and a cloudy sky.
Surfers in the ocean with a large wave.

Experience some of New South Wales’ best wildlife spotting, dine on delicious seafood and explore pristine beaches backed by World Heritage forest.

New South Wales’ North Coast is a breathtaking strip of coastline where the rolling hills of the hinterland unfurl into the hypnotic blue of the Pacific Ocean. Stretching from Sydney to the northern border of the state at Tweed HeadsOpens in a new window, the North Coast has a varied landscape of idyllic beaches and rugged headlands interspersed with laid-back coastal towns and ancient forests. Treat yourself to the daily catch of fresh seafood and visit historic maritime landmarks. Go on a kayaking adventure through tranquil waterways, rise with the sun and hit perfect surf breaks or snorkel with wild turtles.

Visit some of the North Coast’s cities and towns and enjoy the laid-back charm of coastal living. In NewcastleOpens in a new window, New South Wales’ second-largest city, you’ll find an exciting arts scene and the renowned surf breaks of Merewether Beach. Take a stroll on the coastal promenade of the Bathers Way. Savor the fresh local produce at Port MacquarieOpens in a new window’s renowned food festivals or head to Coffs HarbourOpens in a new window to see the iconic Big Banana. YambaOpens in a new window is famed for its prawns. Stand on mainland Australia’s most easterly point at Cape Byron, situated next to the relaxed beach town of Byron BayOpens in a new window.

Explore the North Coast’s awe-inspiring wilderness. Go snorkeling around the Solitary Islands Marine Park to see turtles or go kayaking in Bongil Bongil National Park. Hike in Wollumbin National Park or explore the rainforest canopy on a skywalk in Dorrigo National Park.

One of the best ways to experience the different landscapes of this beautiful region is by exploring the Legendary Pacific Drive. Heading north from Sydney, this touring route passes through 48 national parks and 12 state forests.

Fly into several regional airports along the coast and rent a car to explore the area at your own pace. Intercity buses and charter tours are also available. Visit the region in summer for beach days in the sunshine or check out the coast in winter to spot migratory whales.

With captivating seaside towns, great cuisine and exciting adventures, the North Coast is an unbeatable destination for a family vacation, romantic retreat or fun-filled road trip.

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
The price is Rp2.750.511 per night from 12 Oct to 13 Oct
Rp2.750.511
Rp2.750.511 total
12 Oct - 13 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club and Wi-Fi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,621 reviews)
"Our family were absolutely amazed with our accommodation, the staff were beautiful and we spent a lot of time there, especially in the spa. We will definetely be back."

Reviewed on 24 Sept 2026

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

4 out of 5
35-45 Shoal Bay Rd Shoal Bay NSW
The price is Rp2.386.288 per night from 13 Oct to 14 Oct
Rp2.386.288
Rp2.624.917 total
13 Oct - 14 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this aparthotel in Shoal Bay. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8.2/10 Very good! (2,237 reviews)
"This is an amazing spot for families. Walking distance to everything, amazing amenities and so close to the water at Shoal Bay which is stunning. It can be pricey so keep an eye out for deals. It's also close to pubs and restaurants so if you like a quite area with no noise this may not be the spot ..."

Reviewed on 20 Sept 2026

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Sails Port Macquarie - By Rydges

Sails Port Macquarie - By Rydges

4 out of 5
20 Park Street Port Macquarie NSW
The price is Rp2.962.706 per night from 25 Oct to 26 Oct
Rp2.962.706
Rp3.258.977 total
25 Oct - 26 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Port Macquarie. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
"Great spot, helpful friendly staff, comfortable bed, spacious room. Wish we stayed longer"

Reviewed on 18 Sept 2026

Sails Port Macquarie - By Rydges
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
Stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club and Wi-Fi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,621 reviews)
"Our family were absolutely amazed with our accommodation, the staff were beautiful and we spent a lot of time there, especially in the spa. We will definetely be back."

Reviewed on 24 Sept 2026

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

4 out of 5
35-45 Shoal Bay Rd Shoal Bay NSW
Stay at this aparthotel in Shoal Bay. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8.2/10 Very good! (2,237 reviews)
"This is an amazing spot for families. Walking distance to everything, amazing amenities and so close to the water at Shoal Bay which is stunning. It can be pricey so keep an eye out for deals. It's also close to pubs and restaurants so if you like a quite area with no noise this may not be the spot ..."

Reviewed on 20 Sept 2026

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Mantra Nelson Bay

Mantra Nelson Bay

4 out of 5
1A Tomaree Street Nelson Bay NSW
Stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Nelson Bay. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,636 reviews)
"Great location, easy walk to shops, beach, golf course and restaurants."

Reviewed on 22 Sept 2026

Mantra Nelson Bay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular North Coast attractions

Things to do

Cities near North Coast