From history to epic headlands, sand dunes to surfing, rainforests to multi-awarded restaurants, the New South Wales North Coast specialises in serving up something for everyone. Starting from the Central Coast and a long and windy road trip towards the Gold Coast, there are ocean adventures to be found, vibrant culture to experience and stunning memorials from the Second World War to see.

So buckle up and get set to see it all in a single drive, or simply pick a spot and soak up the scene.

Getting to the North Coast

The major stops along the North Coast, such as Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Clarence Valley and Byron Bay, are accessible via bus service; however, for the sake of convenience, a car is going to provide you with the most freedom and accessibility to some of the coast’s most memorable experiences.

Top things to do on the North Coast

First things first, pack your sunscreen because you’re going to be spending some serious time on the sand. One of the most awe-inspiring hikes on the North Coast is found in Dorrigo, close to Coffs Harbour and past the charming artist hub of Bellingen.

There are never-ending opportunities to stop and swim on route along the North Coast; however, those keen to stretch their kayak skills should make a stop at Lake Macquarie, a natural saltwater reserve and perfect calm waters to row upon.

If you prefer to delve a little deeper, Solitary Islands Marine Park in Coffs Harbour is a haven for avid scuba divers and snorkellers. However, this is just one of the many beautiful and largely untouched nature reserves along the North Coast. Be sure to also put Julian Rocks in Byron Bay, Cook Island Aquatic Reserve near Tweed Heads, and Fly Point-Halifax Aquatic Reserve in Port Stephens on your radar.

Best places to visit on the North Coast

Coffs Harbour

Sealy Lookout provides a perfect perch to get your bearings, with the Forest Sky Pier offering staggering coastal views over the city. Just a 30-minute drive from Coffs Harbour is the artistic town of Bellingen. It’s often touted as a hinterland alternative to Byron Bay, but Bellingen has its own special energy thanks to the inspiring rolling hills of nearby Promised Land and quaint coffee shops and galleries.

And what self-respecting road tripper can resist the kitschy charms of The Big Banana Fun Park? One part is a museum dedicated to the wonder of (yes, you guessed it) the banana. The other, a full-blown theme park ideal for little travellers needing to stretch their legs and let off some steam. It’s weird and completely wonderful.

Port Macquarie

Boat ghosts AND the great outdoors, Port Macquarie blends a whole lot of history with heavenly scenery. The town was initially founded as a convict settlement, known for housing “the worst of the worst", and there are a number of federation buildings and cemeteries from this era dotted around town waiting to be explored. All this flies in the face of Port Macquarie’s natural beauty, which is best enjoyed on one of the town’s many seaside strolls, such as the nine-kilometre hike between Lighthouse Beach and the Town Green.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a must-visit simply to experience the melange of cultures that fuse together in this coastal city. Here, straight-laced Victorian terrace houses rub shoulders with vibrant cosmopolitan cafes and the buzzing energy of the artistic community. And then you’ve got the laid-back surfers strolling past businessmen and women in suits. It can be discombobulating, but in the best way possible. Stop for lunch on the deck at the famous Honeysuckle Hotel, looking out onto the Newcastle Harbour. Then sink your teeth into some history at Fort Scratchley, a former 1880 coastal defence station turned history museum dedicated to the city’s involvement in both World Wars.