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.

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 Rp2.173.598 per night from 9 Aug to 10 Aug
Rp2.173.598
Rp2.390.958 total
9 Aug - 10 Aug
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! (2,206 reviews)
"Only reason we booked this property was due to indoor swimming pool. Both pool was cold and there was some issue with the temperature. I enquired few times but no prompt action or comms was given re the issue and no action taken too. Really disappointed with this but otherwise property is well ..."

Reviewed on 2 Aug 2026

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Comfort Resort Waters Edge

Comfort Resort Waters Edge

3.5 out of 5
1 Buller Street Port Macquarie Nsw 2444 Port Macquarie NSW
The price is Rp2.052.842 per night from 28 Aug to 29 Aug
Rp2.052.842
Rp2.258.126 total
28 Aug - 29 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this golf hotel in Port Macquarie. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very good! (1,002 reviews)
"Good place to stay at. very helpful staff"

Reviewed on 31 Jul 2026

Comfort Resort Waters Edge
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 Rp2.137.946 per night from 9 Aug to 10 Aug
Rp2.137.946
Rp2.137.946 total
9 Aug - 10 Aug
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! (2,604 reviews)
"We had an enjoyable stay in the two bedroom lagoon room. It was spacious, with very comfortable beds and pillows, and the kitchen was well equipped, including a full size fridge. Having direct access to the pool was a great bonus. Secure parking was included, which made things even more convenient. ..."

Reviewed on 3 Aug 2026

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
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.
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! (2,206 reviews)
"Only reason we booked this property was due to indoor swimming pool. Both pool was cold and there was some issue with the temperature. I enquired few times but no prompt action or comms was given re the issue and no action taken too. Really disappointed with this but otherwise property is well ..."

Reviewed on 2 Aug 2026

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
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! (2,604 reviews)
"We had an enjoyable stay in the two bedroom lagoon room. It was spacious, with very comfortable beds and pillows, and the kitchen was well equipped, including a full size fridge. Having direct access to the pool was a great bonus. Secure parking was included, which made things even more convenient. ..."

Reviewed on 3 Aug 2026

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Mantra Nelson Bay

Mantra Nelson Bay

4 out of 5
1A Tomaree Street Nelson Bay NSW
Stay at this family-friendly apartment in Nelson Bay. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their ...
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