Getting to Coffs Harbour - Destination NSW

How to get to Coffs Harbour

Getting around Coffs Harbour

Plan your trip to Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is the kind of place that ticks every box. It's got beaches, rainforest, food, and family fun — but first you’ll need to plan your route!

The good news? Getting into Coffs Harbour is as breezy as the atmosphere when you’re here. Whether you’re chasing the freedom of a road trip, prefer to kick back on a bus or train, or want the speed of a direct flight to Coffs Harbour, there’s an option to match your travel style.

However you choose to arrive, know that this charming coastal town will welcome you with open skies and ocean views.

Plan your travel

Coffs Harbour, NSW

By Car By Bus By Plane By Train By Bike By Foot

How to get there

Getting to Coffs Harbour is straightforward, whether you’re driving, flying or using public transport. Most visitors arrive by car via the Pacific Highway, while flights into Coffs Harbour Airport offer a quick option from major cities. You can also reach Coffs Harbour by NSW TrainLink trains and long-distance coaches, with services connecting along the stunning East Coast.

Modes of transport

Here are the key transport options for car, bus, plane, train, bike and on foot. No matter how you choose to travel, there are ways to arrive and get around with less stress and more fun!

By Car

If a drive’s on the cards, Coffs Harbour is perfectly placed on the Pacific Highway. Heading up from Sydney takes around 5.5 to 6 hours via the Pacific Highway, while Brisbane sits about 4–5 hours north. The journey itself is half the fun — you’ll pass coastal towns, national parks, and plenty of roadside stops for snacks or a swim.

By Bus

Prefer to leave the steering to someone else? There are daily buses to Coffs Harbour from Sydney (9-hour bus ride), Brisbane (7-8 hours), and regional towns along the coast. Most services pull into the central interchange in town, so you’ll be close to shops, cafés, and the beach as soon as you hop off. It’s a comfy and straightforward option — ideal if you’d rather spend your time gazing out the window or reading a book than navigating traffic.

By Plane

Flying is the fastest ticket to holiday mode. Coffs Harbour Airport is just 10 minutes from the town centre and welcomes direct flights from Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne.

Car hire, taxis, and transfers are all available at the airport, so it’s an easy swap from runway to relaxation (or action-packed days if that's more your vibe). Whether you’re squeezing in a weekend or staying longer, flying in lets you spend less time travelling and more time enjoying the coast.

By Train

If you want to live life in the slow lane (or rather, track!), the train is a scenic option. The Coffs Harbour train station is right in town, with NSW TrainLink services running daily. You can catch the Sydney to Coffs Harbour train (around 9 hours) or ride south from Brisbane (5 hours) as some beautiful scenery slides past your window. It’s a longer trip than flying, but a memorable way to ease into holiday mode.

By Bike

For the two-wheel crowd, the Coffs Coast is a cycling dream. While you won’t be pedalling the full distance from Sydney or Brisbane, once you’re nearby, there are plenty of stunning coastal roads and hinterland loops to ride in and around town. Bring water, sun protection, and your camera; the lookouts and quiet stretches of beach make every stop worthwhile.

By Foot

Already in the region? Exploring Coffs Harbour on foot is a popular way to discover its charms. From the lush North Coast Regional Botanic Garden to Muttonbird Island, walking paths lead you straight to the highlights.

Top things to do in Coffs Harbour

Coffs Coast in spring: things to do, where to go and what to see

Discover the best of the Coffs Coast in spring, from coastal walks and beach days to hinterland escapes, wildflowers and fresh seasonal experiences.

The Big Banana Fun Park

Experience Australia's original and most iconic Big Thing at The Big Banana Fun Park!

A must-visit on the Coffs Coast, the Park boasts the country's largest indoor Giant Slide, the biggest Water Park between Sydney and the Gold Coast, and a thrilling Toboggan Ride with stunning ocean views. Challenge yourself in the 36-hole Mini-Golf course, state-of-the-art Laser Tag arena, and Escape Rooms and enjoy fun for all ages with Bumper Cars, an Ice Skating rink, and a 4D Ride Simulator.

For a more relaxed experience, try your luck at the Go Bananas Fun Zone, explore the Banana Plantation tour, or visit Steve McEwan's Reptile World. Don't forget to check out the Coffs Candy Kitchen, The Opal Centre, and the Aloha Shack. Indulge in a Choc Coated Banana from the Cafe and shop at the world's largest banana-themed Gift Shop.

The Big Banana Fun Park is an all-weather destination, open rain or shine, every day except Christmas Day.

The Big Banana Fun Park – it's a whole 'bunch' of fun!

Coffs Skydivers

Love skydiving, love life. Coffs Skydivers is fun, energetic and professional.

The gift you will find here is a connection to your fun side, the courageous and connected you who can achieve anything. Skydiving may change your life.

In a world gone mad, come skydive with them to find your freedom.

On the other side of fear is freedom.

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary in Coffs Harbour, NSW, is dedicated to conservation education and the long-term care of native marine wildlife.

Since 1970, it has provided a safe haven for animals like dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and turtles.

Through interactive programs and immersive experiences, the sanctuary educates visitors on the importance of protecting Australia's unique ecosystems. Home to over 40 animals, many of which cannot return to the wild, it promotes awareness, research, and responsible stewardship of the natural world.

The sanctuary plays a crucial role in inspiring conservation action across the Coffs Coast and beyond.

Best Coffs Harbour Beaches

Most people know Coffs Harbour as the coastal paradise on the NSW Coffs Coast. It’s where the forest meets the sea and there are over 30 incredible beaches to explore and enjoy. Coffs Harbour beaches are next level beautiful, boasting that truly iconic laid-back Australian vibe with perfect conditions for swimming, surfing and just doing a whole lot of nothing much.

Treetops Adventure Coffs Harbour

Treetops Adventure Coffs Harbour is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

With beautiful surroundings, sublime natural habitat and an abundance of local wildlife, Treetops Adventure Coffs Harbour is the northernmost park and one of the prettiest natural locations. Established in Orara East State Forest, and around the corner from Sealy Lookout, this serene park has over 110 challenges and 20 ziplines for you to enjoy the bush from a new perspective!

A 2.5-hour session through the aerial challenges (including gearing up) will have you laughing along with the Kookaburras. After safety, your adrenaline is the top priority, so the courses are designed to challenge you, no matter your level.

Chasing Waterfalls on the Coffs Coast: Nature’s Best Day Trips

If you love nature, fresh air, and the sounds of moving water, the Coffs Coast is a no-brainer. This lush corner of NSW is home to some seriously stunning waterfalls, from easy roadside lookouts to some hidden gems worth the hike. So grab your walking shoes, pack a picnic, and hit the road.

Coffs Coast Growers Markets

Set outdoors each Thursday in the heart of the Coffs City Centre, the Coffs Coast Growers Market brings City Square to life with fresh, seasonal produce and locally made goods.

Visitors can browse in the open air, meet growers and makers, and soak up a relaxed, alfresco atmosphere right in the middle of town.

Shoppers will find fresh fruit and vegetables direct from local farms alongside honey, free-range eggs and artisan sourdough. There is also a changing selection of small-batch condiments, preserves and other hand-made treats from regional producers, making it an ideal spot to discover the flavours of the Coffs Coast.

City Square is centrally located with plenty of parking available on Harbour Drive and Park Avenue, and additional street parking nearby.

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Best things to do Bellingen, NSW on a Coffs Coast day trip

Discover the best things to do in Bellingen NSW, from waterfalls and river swims to cafes, markets and scenic drives on the Coffs Coast.

Accessible Coffs - Coffs Harbour Butterfly House

Coffs Harbour Butterfly House was the first stop on our tour of the Coffs Harbour area. Although the Butterfly House is the main attraction, I knew our kids would especially love the maze.

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Frequently asked questions

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What is the closest airport to Coffs Harbour?

Coffs Harbour Airport is just 10 minutes from the town centre, with direct flights from major cities including Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne.

How do I get from Sydney to Coffs Harbour?

You can drive in about 5.5 - 6 hours, fly direct in around 1 hour 15 minutes, or book a Sydney to Coffs Harbour train.

What’s the easiest way to get around once I arrive?

Coffs Harbour has taxis, car hire, and local bus services. If you’re staying at the Reflections Coffs Harbour, you’ll also be mere minutes from beaches, cafés, and attractions. Talk about holiday heaven!

Is it safe to swim in Coffs Harbour?

Yes, swimming is safe at patrolled beaches like Park Beach, where lifeguards monitor conditions. It’s always a good idea to swim within designated areas for added safety.

Is there snorkelling in Coffs Harbour?

Absolutely! The nearby Solitary Islands Marine Park is a top snorkelling and diving spot, known for its rich marine life and coral reefs.