Coastal Chronicles: The Grand Brisbane to Sydney Odyssey and Back Again - Coffs Harbour: Where Beaches, Bananas, and Beauty Collide

Coffs Harbour: Where Beaches, Bananas, and Beauty Collide

The road trip from Sydney to Coffs Harbour is the first half of the road trip from Sydney back to Brisbane.  The route from Sydney to Coffs Harbour is 532 km, 330 mi, 5:48 hrs. Coffs Harbour is the half way point on the Pacific Highway road trip between Sydney and Brisbane.  Home of the family friendly Big Banana and the centre of many beaches and national parks. Coffs Harbour is a great place to take a break on your road trip.

 

Australia’s East Coast boasts nearly 1000 kilometers of breathtaking coastline, and embarking on a road trip from Brisbane to Sydney is an adventure you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, this journey promises stunning national parks, cool coastal towns, and endless natural beauty. Buckle up as we share our epic road trip experiences with you!

Nestled along Australia’s stunning North Coast of New South Wales, Coffs Harbour beckons travelers with its irresistible blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and endless activities for all ages. Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates breathtaking landscapes, this coastal city promises an unforgettable Australian travel experience.

Throughout Australia there are a number of big things. The Big Apple, The Big Chock (chicken), The Big Ned Kelly to name but a few. Well Coffs Harbour has the Biggest Banana, not surprising because of the bananas grown locally. Since we were in the area we decided to check it out, although it does help if you are crazy about bananas and have your own transport. As pedestrians you are met at the end of the footpath with a lovely view of the Big Banana across a very daunting dual carriageway.

The next day we came down from the lookout and went to the boat harbour and also the southern harbour side. It seems that the southern beach had the best breaks for surfers today. They were accompanied by a school of dolphin feeding on bait fish. After checking out some shops in the harbor we headed for at the famous Twin Tails winery at Nana Glen.

Orara Vale Vineyard is located approximately 25km northwest of Coffs Harbour at Nana Glen in the heart of Orara Valley. The Orara Valley is part of the incredibly beautiful Coffs Harbour hinterland. Two Tails Winery is located on the left hand side just before you enter the village of Nana Glen about 10km  past Coramba.

Our last day in Coffs was the best. We went to the local sea world type attraction called 'Pet Porpoise Pool’. This place is the only place we have been to where you can interact with the animals without getting into the water with them. Before the water show, we were all allowed to have a kiss from Ella the seal and Zippy the dolphin! This was very cool.

You could even put your hand in the pool to stroke the dolphins and throw balls for them to catch and play with. All the creatures there had been rescued and some were getting ready to be set back into the wild (We don't much like the idea of zoos and things) so we found this comforting to know. You could see how happy the animals are there.

The shows were excellent, the dolphins and seals doing countless tricks, all very impressive. They also have other animals too, kangaroos, peacocks, fairy penguins (which you could feed fish to) and a snake and reptile section with a show in which you could hold and feel them too. We had a fabulous afternoon there and popped down to the beach for a bit afterwards too...a good day. The next day we were up and early on the Highway to Yamba.

Optional Detour: Blue Mountains National Park

Before reaching Sydney, consider a detour to the Blue Mountains National Park. Marvel at the dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls.

Remember, Australia’s beauty lies not only in its destinations but also in the journey itself. So grab your hiking boots, surfboard, and sense of adventure—it’s time for an unforgettable road trip!