Family-friendly outdoor walks on the coffs coast

Looking for easy outdoor adventures the kids will actually enjoy? The Coffs Coast is packed with short, scenic walking trails that are perfect for little legs, pram-friendly paths, wildlife spotting, picnic stops and plenty of space to explore.

Whether you’ve got toddlers in tow or older kids with energy to burn, these family-friendly walks are a great way to get outside and experience the best of the region at a relaxed pace.

Looking for more challenging hikes? Explore our guide to the best walks and hikes on the Coffs Coast.

Best walks for kids on the Coffs Coast

• Coffs Creek Walk – best for prams
• Urunga Boardwalk – best all-rounder
• Look at Me Now, Headland – best for wildlife
• Botanic Garden – best for toddlers

Best family-friendly walking trails on the Coffs Coast

Coffs Creek Walk

One of the most popular spots for families, the Coffs Creek Walk is a flat, accessible path that follows the water through town.

Why kids will love it:

• Pram and scooter friendly
• Playgrounds along the way
• Ducks, turtles and birdlife to spot
• Plenty of spots to stop for snacks or a picnic

Trail details:

• Distance: Flexible (1–3km depending on your starting point). This is a great option for all ages, and you can easily tailor the distance depending on how far little legs want to go.
• Location: Coffs Creek Reserve, Coffs Harbour
• Pram/pushchair friendly: Yes (fully paved shared path)

Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore Walk

Flat, wide and right by the water, the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore Walk is perfect for prams, scooters and little legs that want to wander without going too far. There are also plenty of places to stop along the way. think playgrounds, grassy picnic spots and cafés for a quick coffee or ice cream.

Trail details:

• Distance: Flexible (1–3km depending on how far you roam)
• Location: Coffs Harbour Jetty precinct
• Pram/pushchair friendly: Yes (fully paved and flat)

Hot tip:
Time your walk with the Harbourside Markets (every Sunday, 8am - 2pm) and browse the creations by local artists along the way.

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve Walk

Looking for a shorter walk on the Coffs Harbour foreshore? Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve Walk is a shorter version of the Coffs Harbour Foreshore Walk. Starting at the marina, you’ll follow the breakwall before heading up to panoramic ocean views that are well worth the effort.

Keep an eye out for dolphins and turtles in the water below, and during whale season, you might even spot a few passing by. It’s also a place of cultural significance for the local Gumbaynggirr people, adding another layer to the experience.

Why kids will love it:

• A quick walk with a big “wow” view at the top
• Whale watching during migration season
• Seabirds and ocean views

Trail details:

• Distance: Approx. 1km return
• Location: Coffs Harbour Marina
• Pram/pushchair friendly: Partially (sealed path, but a steady uphill climb to the top)

Hot tip:
Grab a gelato from Arbella Ice Creamery before you hit the trail. It’s the perfect walking snack and a great incentive for little legs on the way up.

Crystal Shower Falls Walk

If you’re up for a short drive inland and part of the Wonga Walk Circuit, the Skywalk and Crystal Shower Falls Walk is the kind of walk that feels completely different to the coast, cooler, quieter and wrapped in lush rainforest. Start at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre. This rainforest track leads to a stunning waterfall you can walk behind.

Why kids will love it:

• Walking behind the waterfall is a memorable experience
• Lush rainforest surroundings with plenty to see
• A sense of adventure without a long hike

Trail details:

• Distance: 3.2km return
• Location: Dorrigo National Park (around 1 hour from Coffs Harbour)
• Pram/pushchair friendly: Limited (boardwalk sections, but includes stairs)

Hot tip

Take a jumper as it can get chilly on the trail, and don't miss a chance to hit Belligen for lunch, a great little town to explore and some delish lunch venues to check out.

North Coast Regional Botanic Garden walk

Right in the heart of town, the North Coast Regional Botanic Walk is one of the easiest and most family-friendly places to explore on foot, and it feels surprisingly tucked away from everything.

Winding paths and boardwalks take you through rainforest pockets, mangroves and open lawns, with plenty of space for kids to roam. There’s a sensory garden, picnic spots and even a lake with turtles, which tends to be a hit with younger kids.

Why kids will love it:

• Boardwalks and bridges to explore
• Open grassy areas for running around
• Picnic spots and shade
• Plenty of nature to discover

Trail details:

• Distance: Flexible (multiple short loops)
• Location: Hardacre Street, Coffs Harbour
• Pram friendly: Yes (sealed paths and boardwalks)

Woolgoolga Lake Walk

Just north of Coffs, the Woolgoolga Lake Walk leads up to a scenic lookout with sweeping views along the coastline.

Why kids will love it:

• Short distance with a rewarding view at the top
• Whale watching during migration season
• Open grassy areas for a run around

Trail details

• Distance: Approx. 1.5km loop
• Location: Woolgoolga
• Pram friendly: Yes (mostly flat and accessible)

Hot tip

Linger a little longer in the area with family (and dog-friendly) lunch at Woolgoolga Brewing Co, or check out the Woolgoolga Beach and Headland, with the chance of some whale watching.

Look At Me Now, Headland Walk

Short, scenic and almost guaranteed to delight the kids, Look At Me Now Headland Walk is an easy coastal walk that offers wide-open spaces, ocean views and the chance to spot kangaroos grazing along the headland.

Why kids will love it:

• High chance of seeing kangaroos up close
• Plenty of open space to run around
• Easy, gentle paths with great views
• Perfect for a quick outdoor adventure

Trail details:

• Distance: Approx. 600m–1km
• Location: Emerald Beach
• Pram friendly: Mostly (some uneven grassy sections)

Hot tip

Head to Moonee Beach Hotel afterwards for an easy family meal. The playground is sure to entertain the kids, and there is live music and great food.

Tips for walking with kids on the Coffs Coast

A little planning can go a long way when heading out with kids:

• Bring snacks and water (always a winner)
• Pack hats and sunscreen, even on shorter walks
• Allow extra time for exploring, kids love to stop and discover things along the way
• Choose shorter tracks or flexible routes so you can turn back easily

Slow down and take it all in

One of the best things about the Coffs Coast is how easy it is to mix things up. One day you’re by the ocean, the next you’re tucked into a rainforest, without long drives or big plans.