If you’re taking the kids on a road trip to regional New South Wales, then Coffs Harbour is a standout destination! As well as beautiful beaches and stunning hinterland, there’s a range of child-friendly activities and places to go. Some involve outdoor adventures and exciting rides, while others have a connection to science or offer the opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife. To make planning the adventure a little easier for you, here’s a round up of 10 of the best things to do with kids in Coffs Harbour.

The Big Banana Fun Park

No visit to Coffs Harbour is complete without a trip to the iconic Big Banana Fun Park. Built in 1964, the Big Banana is one of Australia’s most famous Big Things. The park offers a range of thrilling activities and experiences for all ages. At the Big Banana Fun Park, you can embark on an exciting toboggan ride, race around the go-kart track, or cool off at the water park. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, take a leisurely stroll through the stunning banana plantation or enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site cafe.

351 Pacific Highway | Coffs Harbour NSW 23450 | (02) 6652 4355 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary

Get up close and personal with some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures at the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. This interactive marine park offers a unique opportunity to swim with dolphins, feed penguins, and even have a seal encounter. Kids will be mesmerised by the extraordinary dolphin and seal shows, where these intelligent creatures showcase their impressive natural skills. The Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary also plays an essential role in marine conservation and education. You’ll learn about the importance of protecting our marine ecosystems and the incredible work being done to rehabilitate injured marine animals.

65 Orlando Street | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | (02) 6659 1900 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Solitary Islands Aquarium

Discover the wonders of the underwater world at the Solitary Islands Aquarium. Located within the National Marine Science Centre, this state-of-the-art facility is home to a diverse range of marine life found in the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Kids will have the opportunity to see colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sharks up close. The aquarium offers interactive displays and educational programs, making it an ideal destination for young marine enthusiasts. Learn about the importance of preserving our oceans and the unique ecosystems that exist within them.

2 Bay Drive | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | (02) 6659 8131 | Website | Facebook

Raleigh Raceway

Rev up your engines and get ready for some fast-paced fun at Raleigh Raceway, which is less than 30 minutes drive south west of Coffs. This go-karting track offers an exhilarating experience for both kids and adults. Race against your family members and friends as you navigate the challenging twists and turns of the track. Raleigh Raceway is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced racers. Junior karts are available for younger children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. So, put on your racing helmet and get ready to unleash your inner speed demon!

Valery Road | Raleigh NSW 2454 | (02) 6655 4017 | Website | Facebook

Billabong Blue Sapphire Fossicking Park

Embark on a unique and exciting adventure at the Billabong Blue Sapphire Fossicking Park, which offers visitors the opportunity to try their hand at fossicking for sapphires. Kids will love the thrill of discovering their very own gemstones. The Billabong Blue Sapphire Fossicking Park provides all the necessary equipment and guidance to ensure a successful fossicking experience. Learn about the history of sapphire mining in the region and gain valuable insights into gemstone identification. It’s a fascinating and educational activity for the whole family.

2479 Kings Plains Road | Swanbrook NSW 2360 | 0439 478 150 | Facebook

Treetops Adventure

Get back to nature and swing through the trees at the Coffs Harbour Treetops Adventure. Experience the Orara East State Forest from a totally different point of view as you complete some of the 110 challenges and 20 ziplines that the adventure park has to offer. There are four Junior Courses that range from 1 m to 6 m high, and four tree ropes courses that reach a whopping 12 m off the ground. With people aged three and up able to participate, there’s fun to be had for all members of the family.

Sealy Lookout Drive | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | (02) 5626 5461 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

National Cartoon Gallery

To check out the largest collection of cartoons across the whole of Australia, make time to visit the National Cartoon Gallery. Housed inside an old World War 2 Air Force Bunker, the museum has rotating exhibitions featuring content that caters for all age groups. There are two galleries, a cinema showing short films and a cafe with great views of the surrounding bushland. The kids can keep an eye out for some of Australia’s most beloved characters, from classic larrikin Blinky Bill to modern day favourite, Bluey.

1 John Champion Way | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | (02) 6651 7343 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Jetty Theatre

A local hub for the performing arts, Jetty Theatre was first opened in 1928 as a memorial hall and community space. Today, it hosts professional touring shows and special events. If you’re looking for somewhere to spend a rainy day or head out for the night, it might just have a show that’s of interest to you and the kids. As well a live musicals and performances, the theatre also shows a selection of films. Some are historical, dating back to the 1950s and earlier, while others are winners of prestigious awards judged at events like the Sundance Film Festival.

337 Harbour Drive | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | (02) 6648 4930 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

The PlayHouse

The PlayHouse is the place to go in Coffs Harbour for an indoor activity that’s loads fun for the little ones. Welcoming children up to 12 years old, it has a huge indoor playground with all the good stuff. There’s multiple levels featuring a range of obstacles, slides and ball pits, and a quiet zone if anyone needs a little break in between. While the kids play, the adults can grab a coffee at the cafe and there’s snacks if anyone gets hungry.

167 Orlando Street | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | (02) 5616 0060 | Website | Facebook

Beaches

No trip to Coffs Harbour would be complete without spending time at its stunning beaches. With miles of pristine coastline, there’s a beach to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot for a family picnic or a popular surf beach for catching waves, Coffs Harbour has it all. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Park Beach, Jetty Beach and Diggers Beach. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and a range of amenities such as picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and playgrounds. Spend a day building sandcastles, swimming in the ocean, or simply soaking up the sun.