North Coast

Travel Guide

A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and buildings in the background.
A wooden pier extending into a turquoise sea with a clear blue sky.
A marina with several boats docked, a pier with people walking, and a distant view of a town and mountains.
A wooden bridge with metal railings, surrounded by lush green mountains and a cloudy sky.
Surfers in the ocean with a large wave.

Experience some of New South Wales’ best wildlife spotting, dine on delicious seafood and explore pristine beaches backed by World Heritage forest.

New South Wales’ North Coast is a breathtaking strip of coastline where the rolling hills of the hinterland unfurl into the hypnotic blue of the Pacific Ocean. Stretching from Sydney to the northern border of the state at Tweed HeadsOpens in a new window, the North Coast has a varied landscape of idyllic beaches and rugged headlands interspersed with laid-back coastal towns and ancient forests. Treat yourself to the daily catch of fresh seafood and visit historic maritime landmarks. Go on a kayaking adventure through tranquil waterways, rise with the sun and hit perfect surf breaks or snorkel with wild turtles.

Visit some of the North Coast’s cities and towns and enjoy the laid-back charm of coastal living. In NewcastleOpens in a new window, New South Wales’ second-largest city, you’ll find an exciting arts scene and the renowned surf breaks of Merewether Beach. Take a stroll on the coastal promenade of the Bathers Way. Savor the fresh local produce at Port MacquarieOpens in a new window’s renowned food festivals or head to Coffs HarbourOpens in a new window to see the iconic Big Banana. YambaOpens in a new window is famed for its prawns. Stand on mainland Australia’s most easterly point at Cape Byron, situated next to the relaxed beach town of Byron BayOpens in a new window.

Explore the North Coast’s awe-inspiring wilderness. Go snorkeling around the Solitary Islands Marine Park to see turtles or go kayaking in Bongil Bongil National Park. Hike in Wollumbin National Park or explore the rainforest canopy on a skywalk in Dorrigo National Park.

One of the best ways to experience the different landscapes of this beautiful region is by exploring the Legendary Pacific Drive. Heading north from Sydney, this touring route passes through 48 national parks and 12 state forests.

Fly into several regional airports along the coast and rent a car to explore the area at your own pace. Intercity buses and charter tours are also available. Visit the region in summer for beach days in the sunshine or check out the coast in winter to spot migratory whales.

With captivating seaside towns, great cuisine and exciting adventures, the North Coast is an unbeatable destination for a family vacation, romantic retreat or fun-filled road trip.

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
$139 nightly
The price is $139 total per night from Oct 12 to Oct 13
$139 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club, and WiFi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Comfort Resort Waters Edge

Comfort Resort Waters Edge

3.5 out of 5
1 Buller Street Port Macquarie Nsw 2444 Port Macquarie NSW
$133 nightly
The price is $147 total per night from Oct 11 to Oct 12
$147 total
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Port Macquarie. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
"Room was clean, however we ate at the restaurant (dinner) and that was a letdown. The food was not nice at all"

Reviewed on Oct 6, 2026

Comfort Resort Waters Edge
Rydges Port Macquarie

Rydges Port Macquarie

4 out of 5
1 Hay Street Port Macquarie NSW
$161 nightly
The price is $177 total per night from Oct 25 to Oct 26
$177 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Port Macquarie. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Rydges Port Macquarie
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

4.5 out of 5
265 Sandy Point Road Salamander Bay NSW
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salamander Bay. Enjoy free parking, a health club, and WiFi (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

4 out of 5
35-45 Shoal Bay Rd Shoal Bay NSW
Stay at this aparthotel in Shoal Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Mantra Nelson Bay

Mantra Nelson Bay

4 out of 5
1A Tomaree Street Nelson Bay NSW
Book a stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Nelson Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
Mantra Nelson Bay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular North Coast attractions

Things to do

Cities near North Coast

Explore a world of travel with Expedia