Free Things to Do in Coffs Harbour

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Less than six hours drive from Sydney and just over four hours drive from Brisbane, Coffs Harbour is a popular holiday destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors. There are lots to do, but obviously you also don't want to break the bank in the process. So, I've listed below some of the free attractions this beachside city has to offer. Feel free to add to the list any of your other favourites.

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve



Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve is home to the wedge-tailed shearwaters. After spending winter in South East Asia, these migratory birds travel back to the island and return to their burrows every August. They live here keeping their egg warm, raising their chick and foraging for food until late April.



From the foot of the island, a short but steep walking trail will lead you to the eastern side lookout which offers breathtaking views of its surrounds. You might even see humpback whales if you're lucky. As you make your way up, be sure to stay on the track to help protect the bird's fragile burrows.



The island can be reached via Marina Drive with parking available along the road. Then, head to the marina and follow the northern breakwall to the island on foot. I found it rather fascinating to watch the commercial fishing fleet as I'm strolling through.

Jetty Foreshore



Besides walking along the marina, spend some time exploring the southern breakwall and jetty too. It's an easy pleasant walk with beautiful coastal views. Dogs on lead are welcome here unlike on the island.



For those wishing to get wet, you'll find Jetty Beach to be the perfect spot. The beach is protected and hence suits families very well. Next to the beach is a park with lots of green space. It has showers and toilets as well as picnic shelters and BBQs for your convenience. The Jetty Foreshore is located on Jordan Esplanade.

The Big Banana



Believe it or not, our country's "big things" started right here in Coffs Harbour. The Big Banana was originally constructed to attract customers to a roadside banana stall. After hearing of the big pineapple in Hawaii, John Landi thought that something this big would surely stop passing traffic. So, with the help of an engineer and a builder, his idea became a reality in December 1964. Today, Australia's original big thing stands proudly at the Big Banana Fun Park on Pacific Highway approximately five kilometres north of the city centre. Don't forget to stop for that obligatory photo.

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