Breakwall in Port Macquarie.

North Coast

The North Coast has some of the best beaches in Australia!

This beautiful coastline has a lush hinterland of rivers and tropical rainforests well worth exploring. If you're the adventurous type who wants to get away from it all, you can pitch your tent in countless locations throughout NSW National Parks & go bushwalking, swimming, surfing, canoeing and fishing. NSW has a plethora of caravanning and camping locations to choose from.

Beaches Galore

The North Coast is home to some of Australia's best beaches. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax or fun activities like surfing and swimming, there's a beach for everyone. For example, the Byron Bay and Ballina areas are known for their laid-back vibes and pristine white sand beaches. Meanwhile Coffs Harbour is perfect for families with its calm waters and abundance of water sports. For more daring adventurers who love nature's beauty in all forms, try exploring some of the region's hidden gems like Lennox Head Beach or Wooli Beach.

Port Stephens has golden beaches and crystal clear waters populated with friendly dolphins. The Nymboida River offers rainforest camping by the river and great kayaking, bushwalking, fishing and a refreshing waterhole for a swim.  Byron Bay, is the most easterly point of Australia & is well known for its pristine beaches, great surfing spots in the summer, various arts festivals, events and markets.

Ballina serves as a tourism gateway and has access to several beaches, such as Shelley's Beach. You can visit historical sites such as the Ballina Manor and the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum. Ballina's most famous landmark is the 'Big Prawn', you'll know it when you see it.

National Parks & Forests

If you're looking for breath-taking views and lush landscapes, then visiting one (or more!) of the North Coast's National Parks and Forests should be on your must-do list. Yuraygir National Park offers stunning coastal scenery while Dorrigo National Park boasts ancient rainforests and abundant wildlife. There are plenty of walks and hikes available too - so get out there and explore! Who knows what kind of native plants or animals you might encounter along the way?

The Richmond River and  its estuaries abound with marine wildlife and provide for recreational fishing and water sports.  The river rises in the Great Dividing Range and is joined by 12 tributaries, including the Wilsons River, before reaching its mouth at the Coral Sea of the South Pacific Ocean near between Ballina.

Cities & Towns

The North Coast also has plenty of vibrant cities and towns that will guarantee an unforgettable experience every time. From Newcastle in the south to Tweed Heads in the north, each city has its own unique character that makes it special. Newcastle is known for its culture—from museums and art galleries to live music venues—while Port Macquarie is renowned for its amazing food scene (especially seafood). And if shopping is your thing then be sure not check out Coffs Harbour or Ballina; both have an array of boutique stores as well as larger shopping centres where you can find whatever you need!

Only 4 hours’ drive north of Sydney is Port Macquarie, a beautiful coastal town at the mouth of the Hastings River, known for its beaches, wildlife and penal colony past. Port Macquarie is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Hastings River, and surrounded by lush hinterland.

Whether it's sunbathing on some of Australia’s best beaches or exploring ancient forests filled with native flora & fauna – there’s something in the North Coast of New South Wales that will satisfy any traveller's wanderlust! From buzzing cities full of culture & entertainment to quaint little towns with their own unique charm - this region has it all! Start planning your next trip now – don't miss out on all this amazing region has to offer!

THINGS TO SEE

MORE ABOUT NSW

MAJOR TOWNS & CITIES

Australian Test cricketer Phillip Hughes was born and raised in Macksville. In November 2014 he was struck on the neck by a cricket ball in a Sheffield Shield match dying several days later.

More than 275 different languages are spoken and 144 different religious faiths are practiced in NSW.

TAKE ME THERE ...

Mount Kosciuszko - Our tallest mount
Mount Kosciuszko

Mount Kosciuszko is Australia’s highest mountain, located in the Snowy Mountains in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales.

Port Macquarie - Beaches or Hinterland
Port Macquarie - 17 Beaches +

Port Macquarie is known for its 17 uncrowded beautiful beaches, lush hinterland, abundant wildlife and a diverse variety of attractions.

Exploring the Outback - Lightning Ridge
Exploring the Outback - Lightning Ridge

With plenty to see and do - from gem fossicking to bushwalking - Lightning Ridge is well worth a visit!

The Charm of Sydney's Fishburn Ferry
The Charm of Sydney's Fishburn Ferry

Sydney is blessed with an abundance of beautiful attractions, both natural and man-made.

Explore Nobby’s Beach
Explore Nobby’s Beach

Nobby’s Beach is full of activities and fun for the whole family

Uncovering the Beauty of Mungo National Park
Uncovering the Beauty of Mungo National Park

Mungo National Park – a vast expanse of ancient landscapes and unique wildlife that will take your breath away.

Bathurst - King of the Mountain
Bathurst - King of the Mountain

Bathurst is the oldest inland settlement in Australia, often referred to as the Gold Country and home to Mount Panorama racetrack.

The Monte Cristo Homestead
The Monte Cristo Homestead

Visitors to the Monte Cristo Homestead report seeing eerie lights at the homestead or weird feelings where murders have occurred.

Kiama Coast Walk
Kiama Coast Walk

A 90 minute drive south of Sydney along the Grand Pacific Drive is Kiama, where you’ll discover uncrowded beaches, marine and national parks.

A Brief History of the Tacking Point Lighthouse
A Brief History of the Tacking Point Lighthouse

Built in 1879, Tacking Point Lighthouse has been a beacon for sailors and coastal explorers.


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