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

Looking for the best things to do in Bellingen, NSW? Tucked away in the lush hinterland just inland from Coffs Harbour, Bellingen on the NSW Coffs Coast, is known for its rich architectural heritage, lively music festivals, quirky cafes and creative, friendly locals. Just a 30-minute drive away, it’s an easy day trip from Coffs Harbour, offering a mix of river swims, rainforest walks and a vibrant small-town scene.

Here’s how to make the most of a day in beautiful Bellingen...

Top things to do in Bellingen, NSW

• Swim in the Never Never River at the Promised Land
• Walk behind Crystal Shower Falls in Dorrigo National Park
• Country drives
• Paddle the Bellinger River
• Explore Waterfall Way
• Browse local shops
• Enjoy great coffee and local produce at Bellingen’s cafes

Best outdoor activities in Bellingen, NSW

Bellingen is renowned for its scenery: from crystal-clear swimming holes to waterfalls and an abundance of hikes.

Swim at the Promised Land – Never Never River, Gleniffer

Just 12 minutes from the centre of town, Promised Land, Never Never River is a sublime stream with crystal-clear water, white sandy riverbeds and shady picnic spots. It’s one of the most loved swimming holes on the Coffs Coast. Top tip: take crocs or thongs and a wetsuit (the freshwater is quite chilly).

Bellingen Canoe Adventures, Fernmount

Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the Bellinger River with Bellingen Canoe Adventures, drifting past farmland and forest with plenty of spots to stop and swim.

Dorrigo Skywalk & rainforest walks

While you’re in the national park, take in sweeping views from the Skywalk and explore short walks through the Gondwana rainforest.

Crystal Shower Falls (Dorrigo National Park)

Visit the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre, then stroll through lush rainforest on the Crystal Shower Falls Walk to reach the cascading waterfall. You can even walk behind the falls for a spectacular view.

Dangar Falls lookout

A quick stop just outside Dorrigo at the Dangar Falls Lookout, with a viewing platform overlooking the falls, or take the walking track to the base if conditions allow.

Waterfall Way scenic drive

Waterfall Way, between Bellingen and Dorrigo, is one of NSW’s most scenic routes, dotted with waterfalls, lookouts and picnic spots.

River swims & picnics

Warm evenings are practically made for al fresco dining near Lavenders Bridge. Take a relaxing dip in the Bellinger River, then grab takeaway from a nearby restaurant. Spread out a blanket, open a bottle of local wine and watch the sun go down.

Where to eat in Bellingen, NSW

Coffee & breakfast

Start the day right with a delicious breakfast or grab a coffee in one of Bellingen’s unique cafes.

• HYDE Bellingen: A well-known local favourite on Hyde Street, combining great coffee with a retail space and relaxed atmosphere.
• Black Bear Café: A long-standing go-to for breakfast and coffee, popular with locals and visitors alike.
• Hearthfire Bakery: A must-visit for sourdough lovers, with organic breads, pastries and excellent coffee, perfect for a quick takeaway before exploring.

Looking for a spot for lunch or dinner?

Back to town and with tummies surely rumbling, it’s time again to sample local gourmet delights. For casual, family-friendly options, check out:

• The Federal Hotel: This beautifully renovated heritage building has a relaxed, friendly feel, and is the ideal spot for a debrief on your morning’s adventures.
• Old Butter Factory Café: Set in a historic precinct with plenty of space to wander, this café is an easy option for casual lunch, coffee and something sweet.

For something slightly more elevated:

• Three Blue Ducks Bellingen: Set on a scenic property just outside town, this well-known restaurant focuses on local produce and a more refined paddock-to-plate experience.
• Charlie’s at Church: A popular trattoria-style restaurant serving handmade pasta and woodfired pizza, with a slightly more polished feel for a longer lunch or early dinner.
• Bellingen Brewing Co: A laid-back spot for craft beer, woodfired pizza and casual bites, often with live music and a great local vibe.
• Bruno’s Mediterranean Kitchen: A long-time local favourite serving generous, flavour-packed Mediterranean dishes.
• Raleigh Winery: A scenic nearby stop for wine tasting and local produce

Shop local in Bellingen

So … you’ve got the taste for shopping now? That’s OK. You’re in the right place.

• The Yellow Shed: A trip to Bellingen isn’t complete without a visit to the Yellow Shed. This hard-to-miss building is a Bellingen icon, offering everything from books and beauty products to jewellery, toys and artworks.
• The Silver Mill: A treasure trove of handcrafted jewellery and unique gifts, reflecting the town’s creative spirit.
• Sweet Bellingen: The ultimate treat for the kids (and adults), selling a variety of delicious lollies and chocolates.

You’ll also find plenty of boutique stores, galleries and artisan goods dotted along Hyde Street.

Bellingen events & markets

Markets

• The bustling Bellingen Community Markets happen on the third Saturday of the month. Here you’ll find art, craft, fresh produce, live entertainment and multicultural street food.
• The Bellingen Growers Market is held every Saturday morning (excluding the 3rd Saturday of the month) at The Bellingen Showgrounds, and features delicious local produce
• The Bellingen Farmers and Producers Market, on each Wednesday at Bellingen Park, Church Street, offers local-only fresh fruit, herbs, vegetables, meats and seafood.

Events & festivals

There’s always something happening in Bellingen, from live music and local gigs to well-known festivals like Bellingen Muse, a boutique music festival and Readers & Writers Festival.

Plan your stay near Bellingen

While Bellingen makes for a perfect day trip, it’s also ideally placed near some of the Coffs Coast’s best coastal stays.

Just a short drive away, you can stay at Reflections Urunga or Reflections Mylestom, both ideal bases for exploring Bellingen and the wider Coffs Coast.

Ready to explore Bellingen?

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, long lunches or lazy river swims, Bellingen delivers a little bit of everything, all within easy reach of the Coffs Coast.

*All images supplied by Destination NSW.