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.

Newell Falls - No Hike Required

Yep, you can't ask for a more convenient waterfall than this one, as its right on the road side of Waterfall Way.

Distance from Coffs Harbour:

Top tip: Photo angles are a bit tricky around the cliff sides, so if you are after en epic shot, take your drone

Dangar Falls – Dorrigo’s Showstopper

Just a few minutes outside Dorrigo, Dangar Falls is one of the most iconic spots in the area. This one’s super accessible — you can see it from the viewing platform right near the car park. But if you're up for it, take the short walking trail down to the base for a refreshing dip in the plunge pool (it’s chilly, but so worth it!). There’s also a playground and picnic area, making it a great stop for families.

Distance from Coffs Harbour: Around 1.5 hours
Top tip: Go early morning for the chance to catch a rainbow in the mist!

Crystal Shower Falls – Through the Rainforest

This one’s a bit of a bucket list experience. Located inside Dorrigo National Park, Crystal Shower Falls is part of the Wonga Walk, a well-maintained 6.6km loop through lush rainforest. The highlight? You can actually walk behind the waterfall as it spills over a mossy cliff — it’s as dreamy as it sounds.

Distance from Coffs Harbour: Around 1 hour 15 mins
Track grade: Easy to moderate
Bonus: The walk also passes Tristania Falls, so it's a two-for-one adventure.

Red Cedar Falls – For the Adventurous

Want to work for your waterfall? Red Cedar Falls is for you. Also located in Dorrigo National Park, this is the largest waterfall in the park and getting there is half the fun (okay, it’s a bit of a workout). The return walk is around 8km, mostly downhill on the way there — which of course means uphill coming back! But it’s a stunning, rainforest-filled hike with a seriously impressive payoff.

Distance from Coffs Harbour: About 1 hour 20 mins
Track grade: Hard — pack water and wear good shoes!

Bangalore Falls – Peaceful and Off-the-Beaten-Track

Looking for something a bit quieter? Bangalore Falls, near Lowanna, is a beautiful hidden gem. There’s a lookout with views over the falls and surrounding forest, plus a peaceful bushwalk if you feel like stretching your legs. It’s perfect if you want that “middle of nowhere” vibe — without straying too far from the car.

Distance from Coffs Harbour: Around 1.5 hours
Good for: Quiet picnics, birdwatching, nature lovers

Woolgoolga Creek Falls – Family-Friendly and Fun

Closer to the coast, Woolgoolga Creek Falls is a gentle and relaxing walk along a shady track that follows the creek. You’ll wander through subtropical rainforest with towering trees and the occasional curious goanna. The waterfall itself is small but lovely, especially after rain. Keep an eye out for native orchids and fungi along the way.

Distance from Coffs Harbour: 35 mins
Track grade: Easy
Perfect for: Families, beginners, or just a peaceful afternoon walk

Map It Out

Pick up a map at the Visitor Centre in Bellingen or print out this one courtesy of Visit Bellingen - its a really great visual guide of Waterfall Way and great for the kids to plan your day.

Tips for Your Waterfall Adventures

• Pack mozzie spray – especially after rain, the forest can get buggy!
• Wear sturdy shoes – some trails are uneven or slippery after rain.
• Check road conditions if you're heading to remote spots like Bangalore Falls.
• Always take water, even on short hikes. It gets humid out there!
• Bring a jumper: It can get mighty chilly, so highly recommend bringing along something warm to wrap up in

Take a breathe

Whether you’re in it for the views, the hike, the photos or just the fresh air, the Coffs Coast’s waterfalls are little slices of magic waiting to be explored. Best of all, they’re close enough to visit in a day, but beautiful enough to remember forever.

So what are you waiting for?