If you’re looking for fun family activities and a relaxed beachside atmosphere, you’ve come to the right place. Most famous for being the home of the ‘Big Banana’, Coffs Harbour boasts a generous blend of both natural attractions and iconic landmarks. Situated right between Sydney and Brisbane, Coffs is its own little slice of paradise on the New South Wales east coast. From beaches to botanical gardens, we’ve rounded up the best of the best in town, and further out, to guarantee an unforgettable family holiday.
The Big Banana Fun Park
Starting with the city’s main attraction, jump in your Dollar rental car and head to the Big Banana Fun Park for a day full of belly laughs and unforgettable memories. The attraction features the region’s largest water park, a walk-through banana plantation, mini golf course and more, giving you plenty of ways to make the most of your day. At the entrance, you won’t miss the 13-metre Big Banana, one of Australia’s first ‘big things’. Here you can take a moment to snap some pictures for the holiday photo album before heading inside. If you’re visiting in summer, the water park is a must! From four-story high thrill slides to interactive play areas made for kids, bring your swimsuit and get ready to slip and slide through the park. On the opposite end of the spectrum, rug up in warm clothing, strap on your skating boots and glide the day away in the park’s ice skating rink. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, a skate around the ice rink is all-out fun for the whole family!
Ramp up the excitement at the Big Banana with a game or two of alien-themed laser tag. With a battlesuit vest and light-up phaser in hand, you’ll feel just like you’re in an action movie. Kids will love running around the centre, chasing and hiding from opponents through darkened halls lit up by light shows and laser beams. For something to entertain children of all ages, laser tag hits the target, and adults can watch on or join in! Experience amazing views at exhilarating speeds with a ride on the park’s outdoor toboggan. Here, you’ll twist and turn past rolling hills and through grassy slopes as you travel down the 600-metre-long sled. With views overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it’s a scenic journey and a thrilling ride! However you choose to spend your day at the Big Banana, it’s family-friendly, affordable, and the perfect Australian theme park experience.
National Park and Botanic Garden
An hour out of Coffs Harbour, take the rental car for a scenic drive inland to reach Dorrigo National Park. Here, you can stroll through World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, admire rushing waterfalls and settle in for a peaceful picnic lunch. Start your journey at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre where you can plan your day with the help of friendly guides and take in amazing views at the Skywalk lookout. Next, venture through the park on the Crystal Shower Falls walk which leads to a majestic waterfall surrounded by rocky cliff faces - you’ll want to bring your camera along to capture the stunning scenery here! When it’s time for lunch, head to the Never Never Picnic Area for a nature picnic, and listen out to hear the calls of native birds. If you didn’t pack lunch or are craving something more, dine at the Canopy Cafe for delicious bites under the trees.
Don’t want to travel as far to get your nature fix? Discover a world of native trees and exotic plants at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden in the city's heart. Here you can take on a themed discovery walk through the peaceful gardens and connect with nature. The self-guided walks include paths of all interests including the Early Settlers Walk which tells the story behind the history of Coffs Harbour, while the Journey into the Subtropics trail is one where you can learn about which plants thrive in a humid climate. From the garden entrance to the glasshouse, and the sensory garden to the Japanese friendship garden, there are 20 hectares acres of beautiful, family-friendly greenery to explore. If you don’t know where to start, there are guided tours available to ensure you make the most of your visit to the gardens. Planning on a picnic? Grab a cup of coffee from the coffee van and pick up a snack at the Information Centre before finding a shady spot to relax.
Whether you decide to spend your time here in the city or plan to travel out a little further, Coffs Harbour has a blend of family-friendly attractions that guarantee a perfect holiday. Pick up a Dollar rental car from the airport to start your coastal adventure!