North Coast - New South Wales

An intriguing blend of old and new, the North Coast is where the world’s largest expanse of subtropical rainforest meets mountains forged from ancient volcanoes.

A sparkling coastline of endless beaches offers surfing, whale-watching, frolicking dolphins and flocks of seabirds. Inspiring surroundings attract creative personalities – artists, writers and musicians. Colourful local festivals brim with arts and crafts, kites, crystals and local produce.

Take a horseback tour or dine on the waterfront on fresh seafood and locally grown fruit accompanied by crisp white wine. Rich volcanic soils produce macadamia nuts, exotic fruits, aromatic coffee, tea, pure milk and excellent wine.

The Central East Rainforest Reserves cover more than 50 national parks and wilderness areas, from Mt Warning (where the sun first hits the Australian mainland each day) to wildlife-rich Barrington Tops.

On the North Coast, waterfalls sparkle in the sun – Ellenborough Falls is Australia’s longest single-drop waterfall.

Highlights

	Hunter Valley
	With more than 120 wineries, the Hunter Valley produces some terrific wines, loved at home and abroad, including the crisp Hunter Semillon and the ripe Hunter Shiraz. Complement the wine with superb cuisine and stylish boutique accommodation for the perfect getaway.

	Barrington Tops
	Barrington Tops is an unspoilt wilderness covering more than 1,200 sq km of land. Bushwalking trails in this wonderful natural expanse take you from subtropical rainforest to ancient beech forests and subalpine woodlands. If you’re lucky, you might spot a lyrebird or a satin bowerbird.

	Byron Bay
	Byron Bay’s natural credentials are impeccable – humpback whales cruise past the headland, storms create rainbows on the mountains across the bay, hang-gliders ride the thermals above the lighthouse. Australia's most easterly point casts a spell over everyone who goes there.

Return to NSW regional guide...