5 Stunning Northern NSW Destinations - Include these in your Australian Road Trip!
Does the thought of a Northern NSW Road Trip get you feeling excited? Is an Australian Road Trip on your bucket list? How far are you going to go? (it is a very big country!) What are some of the best places to visit? Wondering how you are going to keep it on budget, whilst making memorable moments? How much is it really going to cost? When is the best time to go? What can you do to keep the costs down and how much time will you need?
Northern NSW is calling your name!
If these are your burning questions - then let me help you!
Australia is such a huge country and a road trip around the whole of Australia would take you months, possibly even years! People are often in awe of the size of Australia and many Australians have never even travelled from the East to West! - I’m serious!
Let’s break it down into some manageable travel chunks for you, starting with:
Here’s why you need to visit 5 Stunning Northern NSW Destinations
You must include these in your Australian Road Trip. Starting from Brisbane (QLD) through to Port Macquarie (NSW) - a mini Road Trip in terms of Australian road trips.
Road Tripping- Brisbane to Port Macquarie
When is the best time to go? - Well I would have to say anytime, however the shoulder seasons outside of peak holiday times and school holidays will be the most affordable. We haven’t always had the luxury to travel outside of school holiday periods as our son was still in school. For this adventure we chose to head during the Sept/Oct school holidays. This time can be a little harder to navigate to get good pricing, however I will share what I have learned with each destination. With Accommodation, I generally book relatively last minute - a few months out from the trip and secure with free cancellation options in case something better pops up.
Beachy More! You know you want to! Beachhouse Pub, Port Macquarie
What’s the weather like? The great thing about Australian weather is that it is usually wonderful year round. Going in the late Sept/Oct period, we experienced gorgeous days, blazing with sunshine and warmth, however still a tad cooler in the water (though I am a Queenslander where it’s always hot, hot, hot!). Best times for great weather will generally be Sept through to March (can be rainy in the January/early Feb or stormy around December/January)
Perfect Weather and Long stretches of White Sandy beaches - Kingscliff
The Northern NSW coastline has long stretches of white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, incredible coastal scenery and amazing views. It is one of the most picturesque locations along the East Coast.
Was it costly for fuel?
At the time we travelled, was very good pricing, though you will have to account for price hikes in petrol/diesel. More places across Australia are gearing towards electric charging stations for Electric Vehicles, so this may make it more affordable.
Byron Bay
Byron is a super popular tourist destination - Main Beach.
First stop - Byron Bay. (1 hour 50 mins from Brisbane (QLD) by car). Byron Bay is by far one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Northern NSW coastline. An extremely popular choice for backpackers. It has changed over the years and dare I share that some Australians suggest it has become a little commercialised in comparison to its humble beginnings. It has always been known as a relaxed, alternative, creative, idyllic location and in my opinion, continues to be a dream destination.
It is famous for its majestic beaches, great surf locations, scuba diving experiences and in recent years - celebrity spotting! (Check to see if you can find Chris and Liam Hemsworth and good buddy, Matt Damon dropping by - Aussies love to spot celebrities!)
Hordes of tourists continue to put this Australian destination to the top of their dream destination list. There is a variety of accommodation options, however prices range considerably. Hostel accommodation is of great standard here and the majority are very reasonably priced, located right in the heart of Byron. If a hostel or camping is not your first choice for desired travel, then I would review Airbnb, Booking.com and Luxury Escapes for options. Luxury Escapes has had accommodation on offer in this area and I have seen some amazing deals! Avoid Peak and School Holidays season (both NSW and QLD school holiday periods which differ at some times of the year) to source the best possible price.
Byron Bay - stretches of beach seen from Lighthouse road.
Jonson Street is the main street in Byron. This street and adjacent streets are lined with quaint shops, alfresco dining with trendy bars, cafes and restaurants. Food options and costs vary depending on what you want - so do check out the range of cafes, restaurants for what fits in your budget. There are so many wonderful dining options. Of course, there is the Byron pub, the Beach Hotel, which is situated right on Bay Street, overlooking the beach front - top location!
View out to the beachfront from the Beach Hotel
There is car parking available in Byron, however very few spots for free. Keep that in mind if travelling in just for the day.
Cape Byron Lighthouse - Byron Bay
Another very popular place to visit is the Byron Lighthouse. It has to be one of the most stunning locations to capture views over the ocean and the incredible sunset. There are costs for parking at the lighthouse (payable to NSW National Parks). You can avoid this and instead get some fresh air, exercise and take in stunning views all at the one time! Opt for the Lighthouse Trail, beginning right in the heart, near the pub and meander up the hill, joining the boardwalk towards the Lighthouse - such a lovely walk. You can also access the walk at various locations on the way to the Lighthouse, which shall shorten the 3.7km loop.
Northern NSW magic - Wategos Beach - a little slice of heaven in Byron
What’s great about Byron Bay? It remains an incredibly relaxing and inviting place. There are few destinations in the world where I can honestly say that from the moment you are there, your soul shifts gears into that calming, slow chilled space of what feels like another time zone. Byron does that to you. It shall remain high on my list of favourite destinations.
How long should you stay? If it were up to me, forever! You could just do a day trip to see the highlights, but if you want to immerse yourself into the Byron moments and culture, ideally (for a road trip) try to stay at least a couple of nights. This will allow you to take a leisurely stroll through town, seek out an amazing dining experiences, follow the coastal walk, visit the iconic Lighthouse and watch the beautiful sunsets.
2. Yamba
Onwards to Yamba (just 1 hour 29 mins from Byron)- the claim being ‘Where the Beaches are Better!’ Our accom options were sorted here - stayed with friends! That might not be an option for you, though I have seen many travellers living out adventures using Trusted Housesitters. Opting to look after the pooches and pets in exchange for accom, so do look at this as an alternative to keep costs to a minimum, particularly if wanting a longer stay.
What’s great about Yamba?
Rumour has it, that Yamba is fast becoming the Byron Bay of its early past. The beaches are simply stunning and so are the rock pools and lush surrounds. The township is small, with just over 6K in residents and it has the feel and comfort of a small country town. The people are incredibly welcoming, life feels like it’s running at a slower pace and everything is just minutes away.
Yamba is surrounded by a dramatic seascape.
What is there to do at Yamba?
Surfing and Fishing are very popular. There are an incredible amount of swimming holes, inlets and coves. Each having its own unique beauty and attraction. Do check out the ocean pool - a local and tourist’s favourite spot.
Yamba Ocean Pool is a favourite spot - I LOVE an ocean pool!
The local bowls club is set up as a kid’s paradise complete with a Ten Pin Bowling Alley inside, Rock Climbing walls and set-up adhoc events like a travelling ice-skating rink during the popular tourist periods. Another favourite dining place is the local Tavern, where you can dine next to the water and watch the prawns literally skim across the top of the water and feed the schools of huge fish!
What are the accommodation options like in Yamba?
Yamba is not a big town, so there are a lot of motels. There are also a number of holiday parks . Many of which have cabins (in addition to camp sites) which are situated directly on the waterfront making them a very attractive option. Cabins situated on the waterfront or beachfront is a Luxe Travel experience right there! Yamba is becoming increasingly popular for backpackers and is not unusual to spot Backpackers wandering about town. This demand from backpackers has seen an increase in good quality hostel accommodation available.
If you are wanting something really special- check out Angourie Resort and The Sands Resort. I would review booking.com to check out what pricing they offer and experiment with pricing over different time periods or contact the resorts directly for prices.
How long should you stay in Yamba?
At least two nights in Yamba and each destination following in this blog. This should give you ample time to check out the highlights of each place on your road trip.
3. Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie is well-known for its extensive beaches and waterways.
Back on the road, this time trekking through several towns and a bee-line straight to Port Macquarie - a quaint coastal town best known for its extensive beaches and waterways.
A bit further to get to our destination today (3 hours, 8 mins). Port Macquarie is 4 hours from North Sydney if heading from that direction. This is the furtherest point we ventured on this mini road trip as decided we would then loop back through all of the towns back to Brisbane. It would have been nice to take in Newcastle as well, however felt it would be too rushed, instead choosing to cut back and enjoy more time in each destination and surrounds.
What’s great about Port Macquarie and what’s there to do?
Apart from the magnificent beaches, there is the Hello Koala Sculpture trail - our son simply loved this experience and likened it to a Treasure Hunt. The beautifully designed Koala sculptures are located all over Port Macquarie and surrounds. Finding them was a lot of fun.
Walking the Break wall, overlooking the Hastings River and Town Beach was also a highlight. It is lined with the most gorgeous, colourful graffiti adorning the boulders. Paint splashes and works of art captured messages of love, tributes and family memories. It is truly such an inspiring, spirit lifting sight. Bring your paints and brushes and find a rare rock that may allow you to create your own masterpiece (only allowed at the Break wall location).
The 9 km Coastal Walk showcases some of the most dramatic coastlines on the Northern NSW coast. We didn't opt to walk as our time in Port Macquarie was limited. We did however stop at selected points enroute, to stand cliff side and watch the whales swim right past - an exhilarating experience to see the greatest ocean creatures right at the ocean edge.
This also included a visit to the boardwalk at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre on our way to Tacking Point Lighthouse. A beautiful stroll through the lush rainforest, sunlight streaming through the palms and sounds of the forest gently echoing in the background. Very peaceful and topped off by a quiet enjoyable lunch amidst the treetops at the Rainforest Cafe.
Very affordable. You can choose to wait for a guided tour if you wish. A truly relaxing experience to be enjoyed by all.
The East Coast has a number of lighthouses, the most famous being in Byron, however there are other historic lighthouses just as majestic. One of them being Tacking Point Lighthouse. This is located on the rocky headlands of Port Macquarie. A dramatic and inspiring landscape where again we could watch the whales breaching right in front of our eyes!
The wooden staircase led down onto Lighthouse beach, where the white, sandy beach seemed to stretch on forever. It was a little overcast but completely stunning and exhilarating.
Camel Riding
Australia is home to one of the largest camel populations in the world! Did you know that? If you can squeeze in the time, whilst at Lighthouse beach, join a camel safari - a fun and unique experience to ride along the long sandy stretch of Lighthouse beach.
You can look for whales whilst on your camel safari!
Cost for Camel Riding?
best way to do this is check Book.Me Australia for deals. If you pay up front for an activity, it can really save you some $. I used Bookme all throughout New Zealand. Saved us heaps on adventures.
Where to Stay in Port Macquarie?
Again lots of options, particularly many holiday parks with beachfront or waterfront locations. A choice of a cabin or villa right on the waterfront is very special. Book early for these types of accommodation, as extremely popular. We chose to stay at Rydges which overlooked the Marina. I wasn’t sure about the location, however it was a wonderful hotel with great facilities, restaurant and close enough to leisurely stroll to everything.
I love Rydges hotels - if you sign up as a Priority Guest rewards member they offer great deals such as 20% off in-hotel dining, free welcome drinks and other VIP offers. The dining experience at the Boathouse Bar and Restaurant was incredibly enjoyable. I have found out of a majority of hotel chains, that Rydges remain consistent with their level of service and support.
What’s close to Port Macquarie?
Just 30 minutes outside Port Macquarie, head to Bago Maze and Winery.
A short diversion off the Pacific Highway, along a long stretch of dirt road (however you don’t need a 4WD) will take you to the most picturesque valley landscape, the home of Bago Vineyard and Maze. Kids and Adults love this place. Get lost for an hour or two, then head back to the winery to grab a Cheese Platter and with a free glass of wine (use coupon from the brochure at the Winery) and drink in the amazing views amongst the vineyards, overlooking the valley. Save room for some of the handmade chocolates from the winery too!
Where to next?
Next stop is Coffs Harbour, another stunning location in Northern NSW. Including a stop at Crescent Heads on the way. A tiny seaside town that is an absolute slice of paradise. A sleepy village with the most unique tidal influenced waters that sweep out to the ocean - a blissful family destination.
A hidden gem off the beaten track - our son absolutely loved this location and was completely unconvinced about moving on. Think I was too! The waters were inviting and the setting completely tranquil. Make this a must stop on your road trip - particularly if you are a keen surfer. If you are staying on, check out the holiday park where you can also find oceanside and lakeside bungalows. Location is absolutely perfect.
4. Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour Marina
Weaving our way back to Qld now - a short drive - 1 hour, 36 mins will get you to Coffs Harbour - one of the largest coastal towns in the mid north NSW coast. This was always a favourite childhood destination of mine. It has grown exponentially over the last 2 decades, however has always been home to the iconic Big Banana (now including an amusement park). In terms of theme parks, Australia has many and they are all very different, however do make a point to visit the Big Banana on your trip.
Costs? It really depends on what you do.
It is free to wander around and you can pay for each amusement activity. Cheapest option is to get a combo pass and choose your activity. Whilst we were there - we checked out Groupon (I always do this) and it showed we could get an unlimited rides pass for over 50% off. When you have a few kids, that is a big saving!
Chocolate covered Bananas are on the favourite list at The Big Banana - Coffs Harbour
Costs for meals at The Big Banana?
I thought it was pretty reasonable in terms of amusement parks and you can’t go past a chocolate covered banana!
Pacific Bay Resort - surrounded by pristine gardens and has a golf course.
Where to stay in Coffs Harbour?
There are so many accommodation options in Coffs - resorts, campsites, cabins, Airbnb, holiday villages etc. Check out booking.com to get a feel for location and pricing in the season you are staying. We chose to stay at Pacific Bay Resort - there were several reasons for this. It was older style accommodation, apartment available with own kitchen, great pricing for school holidays, surrounded by pristine landscaped gardens and a 9 hole (Par 3 golf course). Both my husband and son are avid golfers, so thought this would be a nice bonding experience for dad and son.
The other reason was location - a short drive to the Big Banana and Forest Sky Pier - 2 locations that were on the must visit list.
What’s there to do in Coffs Harbour?
Fishing, swimming, water sports, walking, golfing (so many great courses in Northern NSW). Visit the Jetty and Marina area - watch for the flock of seagulls hovering ever so close if you have any food in your hands, whilst walking along the Break wall. Hilarious to watch unsuspecting tourists! From the Marina, head to Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. This is a rather steep, heart-pumping, though short walk across Muttonbird Island, home to the locally named Mutton birds and their hundreds of nests. Once across to the eastern side, you will enjoy the most majestic views. At the time of our visit, the whales were frolicking just metres away from the island edge. An absolute must visit.
You shall start to notice, most activities are FREE, just a case of knowing where to go and how to get there. Only requires your leg power and a sense of adventure!
Where to Next?
Was time to say goodbye to Coffs Harbour and move on to Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout, high above the banana plantations, a short but windy road, only 11 kms outside Coffs. Forest Sky Pier is a magnificent piece of architecture that stretches out over the lush hinterland with extraordinary views over the Coffs Coast and Mountainside.
Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout - majestic views of the ocean and lush rainforests below.
Cost? - FREE
All free to take in the majestic views. There are great walking trails in the Orara East State Forest. If you feel the urge for a cappuccino there is also a coffee guy up on the mountain to cater to your coffee cravings before you head out on the walk.
One thing we didn’t get time to do was the Tree Tops adventure park. This was located at Sealy Lookout. We watched the adults and kids flying high through the tree tops and it looked like an incredible amount on fun. In hindsight, we could have spent one extra day in Coffs, so that is something you may want to consider.
Next stop on this stunning NSW coast?
Kingscliff! however first a stop to Moonee Beach. This was voted as the 3rd Best Australian Beach in 2017 out of a list of 100 of the best Australian Beaches - I was intrigued. That’s a big call. Is it really one of the best beaches in Oz?
Not far away - only 18 minutes drive and we were at Moonee Beach.
What was great about Moonee Beach?
Surrounded by tall Pine trees at the beach edge, stunning inlets, lapped by the ocean edge, a fisherman’s and family paradise. It had an instant feel of relaxation.
View over Moonee Beach - Incredibly relaxing.
The waters were crystal clear, sand soft and smooth under foot. The Reflections Holiday Park was situated right on the edge of Moonee Beach. I loved its location. I could picture myself renting a cabin here overlooking the picnic area’s, taking my dog for a paddle (they have dog friendly cabins!), sipping a glass of wine as the sun set. It got my vote! Book early for waterfront cabins!
Was hard to drag ourselves away from here, but got back in the car :( - next stop Kingscliff.
5. Kingscliff
Kingscliff - a heavenly destination
Well I think the photo of Kingscliff speaks volumes! This was the last stop on our mini road trip. Just 3 hours 8 mins from Moonee Beach. We spoiled ourselves and decided to stay at Mantra on Salt getting a 1 bedroom apartment. What a perfect destination. This hotel has it all, right on the beach, Salt Village adjacent to the hotel and hosting great restaurants, Coffee shops, boutiques, Patisserie etc.
Jump on a bike and you can ride up and down the coastline. We booked all of our accommodation using Booking.com, however for this hotel, do contact them directly as some great offers if booking directly.
A lot of the accom options in all places we went to, had cabins on the absolute beachfront within Holiday Parks - Do check out Holiday Parks to see what cabins or villas they have, as incredible to get beachfront locations for great prices.
Many Holiday Parks have Beachfront Cabins or Villas…..Absolute Luxe Travels!
Another place that I think is just a perfect location - is Paradiso Resort - situated in the heart of Kingscliff. Has a balinese feel and the rooms are very big. Book early for this one, if wanting to book during school holiday periods as super popular.
Kingscliff is a quiet coastal town that is best known for its estuaries, fishing, surfing, swimming and a range of water sports. The water colour is really quite magical. A favourite spot is Cudgen Creek - a super popular inlet for swimming, kayaking, snorkelling and fun! Our family just loves this place.
There you have it - A road trips that doesn't break the bank and showcases Travels to 5 stunning locations in Northern NSW. Eight nights on the road - just loved this trip - Felt like 3 weeks away!
Fuel costs were not a big outlay.
Accommodation cost could be a lot lower if looking outside of school holiday periods. Also look for options at holiday parks for oceanfront villas/cabins)
Food costs will depend on what you choose. Lots of options with Surf Clubs, restaurants, cafes or cook up you own when booking an apartment.
Always check sites like Bookme or Groupon to see if you can save money on dining or activities for the locations you are headed to.
Where you save in one place, you can put towards other amazing experiences.
Gav and I making our way back up to Qld for the next road trip - battling the traffic woes on our return!
When are you planning your road trip to Northern NSW?!
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