North Coast
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.
General Information
| Summer Temperature: | 21-31C |
|---|---|
| Winter Temperature: | 15-21C |
| Population Byron Shire: | 30,000 |
| Population of Newcastle | 322,000 |
| Population of Coffs Harbour | 71,000 |
Highlights
Pacific Coast Touring Route
This touring route is situated between the central gateways of Sydney and Brisbane through the Fraser Coast and also to Cairns.
Byron Bay: Hiking, Kayaking and Snorkelling Wilderness Tour
Explore the magnificent Byron hinterland with its World Heritage listed rainforests and spectacular Minyon Falls.
Byron Bay : Free Time to Explore
Byron Bay has an enviable lifestyle appeal with locals and visitors alike.
Locations
Byron Bay
Byron Bay is located on the north coast of New South Wales. Cape Byron, a headland adjacent to the town, is the easternmost point of mainland Australia. With its numerous beaches, unspoiled hinterland, and relaxed lifestyle, Byron Bay has an enviable lifestyle appeal with locals and visitors alike. The town has several beaches which are popular for surfing and viewing whales and dolphins in the wild is a popular attraction.
Newcastle
Perched between a working harbour and beautiful beaches, Newcastle is a vibrant cosmopolitan city, bursting with energy and creativity. The emerging food scene here is evident in the great restaurants, bars and outdoor cafés around the city. Located an easy 2 hour drive north of Sydney Newcastle's beaches are still the major highlight for visitors - choose from five great surf beaches and two outdoor ocean baths. For those with cultural inclinations, choose from more than 30 art galleries in and around the city.
Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour is a city on the north coast of New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its beaches and the Big Banana monument and amusement park. In the waters off Coffs Harbour Marina is the Solitary Islands Marine Park, home to abundant wildlife, seasonal whales and coral reefs. Just east is the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, with its large population of wedge-tailed shearwater birds and learning centre.
Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie is located on the New South Wales Holiday Coast at the mouth of the Hastings River, Port Macquarie boasts some of the most pristine waterways and magnificent beaches in Australia. With an abundance of things to do, beautiful nature reserves, and a colourful history, Port Macquarie is a coastal resort town that has something for everyone. The climate is noted for being one of the best in Australia with average temperatures ranging from 20C - 32C in Summer, and from 8C - 21C in Winter.
