The best beaches in Coffs Harbour

Whether it’s swimming, surfing or fishing you’re passionate about, the Coffs Coast region boasts stunning white sandy beaches and pristine waters that you’ll never want to leave in your rear-view mirror. From paddling in rockpools, whale watching on headlands and catching a few waves at your local, this guide lists the 10 best beaches on the Coffs Coast. So pack your beach bag, grab your towel and slip, slop, slap – we’re about to go on holiday.

1. Jetty Beach

Jetty Beach in Coffs Harbour is one of the city’s most popular beaches, and for good reason too. Family-friendly, easily accessible and with ample parking, this beach in Coffs Harbour is also protected from large swells by the Marina’s breakwall, making it an ideal place to go with little ones. Located right next to the Jetty Foreshore Park which boasts children’s playgrounds, pathways for rollerblading, skateboarding or bike riding, alongside barbecues and undercover picnic areas, you could easily spend the whole day here, so why not? Browse the weekend markets, enjoy the proximity of local cafes and restaurants, eat fresh seafood and walk along the jetty. Most importantly, give yourself time to soak all this good stuff up!

Jetty Beach | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 

2. Park Beach

Patrolled seven days a week by council lifeguards and the local Surf Life Saving Club, Park Beach in Coffs Harbour is another of the city’s most popular beaches. Located close to Park Beach Shopping Centre, popular live music venue the Hoey Moey, and delicious baked goods from Peach & Wolf Bakery, Park Beach is the perfect place for a day out in the sun. Enjoy a dip in the sea, catch some sunrays on the sand, take a walk along Macauleys Headland, or head out for a surf. Surrounded by hotels, motels and holiday accommodation, you’ll be suited and booted for a fantastic weekend on the Coffs Coast.

Park Beach | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 

3. Diggers Beach

Situated mere minutes from the national icon The Big Banana, Diggers Beach is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Sheltered from the wind, this beach in the heart of Coffs Harbour is suited to a range of water-based activities, including swimming, surfing and fishing. Watersports not your idea of fun? Watch the surf from the pavilion, pick up shells as you walk along the white sandy beach, build a sandcastle or take the path to Macauleys Headland and enjoy stunning views of Muttonbird Island. Boasting its own picnic area, kids’ playground and barbeque, Diggers Beach is a wonderful location to catch up on some quality family time.

Diggers Beach | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

4. Sapphire Beach

Perfect for those who like their nature escapes served with a slice of luxury, Sapphire Beach is located just 9km from Coffs Harbour’s city centre and is surrounded by beautiful resorts and family-friendly accommodation options. Venture to this strip of white sandy heaven and be rewarded with crisp blue waters and panoramic views of the Coffs Coast. See if you can spot the South Solitary Island lighthouse and keeping quarters from the shore, as well as the neighbouring Split Solitary Island, located a whopping 18km off the coast.

Sapphire Beach | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

5. Macauleys Beach

Macauleys Beach is easily one the best beaches on the Coffs Coast, especially if you’re learning to surf. Located in between Park Beach and Coffs’ institution The Clog Barn, this patch of coastline is sheltered, secluded and offers good, easy waves at all tide levels. Featuring a small kids’ playground and picnic area surrounded by Paper Bark trees, this spot is great for family gatherings, while also being well regarded as a top fishing spot. Fancy a walk? Meander up the Macauleys Beach Headland and be spoiled by stunning views where deep blues, vibrant greens and the browns, blacks and greys of cliff edges collide to create breathtaking, picture-worthy scenery.

Macauleys Beach | Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

6. Corindi Beach

Located in the Solitary Islands Marine Park, Corindi Beach is a popular destination for swimmers, snorkelers and surfers alike. Featuring rockpools for little ones to explore, and a kids’ playground and amenities, Corindi Beach is a place where a family or group of friends could easily spend the day. While you’re in the area, we recommend you visit the Yarrawarra Cultural Centre. An art gallery, museum and meeting place that celebrates the Gumbaynggirr people, Yarrawarra was established in the 1980s by Aboriginal Elders and is a place of great significance in the Coffs Harbour community. Hosting workshops, showing stunning exhibitions by Indigenous artists and holding regular events, this centre is a must-visit.

Corindi Beach | Coffs Harbour NSW 2454 

7. Moonee Beach

Family-friendly, pet-friendly and a treasured Gumbaynggirr area, Moonee Beach Reserve is another one of the Coffs Coast’s great beaches. Where creek meets beach, this popular destination is a favourite for both locals and tourists. Pitch a tent at Reflections Moonee Beach Holiday Park, rent a paddleboard or Kayak from Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours, and order some fish and chips from the local takeaway shop, Rosie’s Takeaway – your weekend just got a whole lot cooler.

Moonee Beach | Moonee Beach NSW 2450

8. Woolgoolga Beach

Famous for being one of the best whale-watching spots in the whole Coffs Coast region, Woolgoolga Beach Headland offers panoramic views of big skies, the deep Pacific Ocean, and the huge Humpback Whales that migrate between May and November every year.  Also known for being an A+ location for swimming, surfing and fishing, this beach in Woolgoolga is your one-stop-shop for a tip-top beach day. Also going by the name Woopi, Woolgoolga boasts cafes, restaurants, kids’ parks, picnic areas and the small-town beach vibes we all love, so why not pop Woopi Beach on your list and spend the day exploring all the magical things this town has to offer?

Woolgoolga Beach | Woolgoolga NSW 2456

9. Sawtell Beach

If you love exploring tidal rock pools, swimming or surfing, then Sawtell Beach is a must-visit!  Located just 15 minutes from the heart of Coffs Harbour, Sawtell is a stunning beach town with an estimated population of just 3779.  A hugely popular holiday destination due to its stunning beaches, cracking hospitality scene and family-friendly atmosphere, Sawtell has a lot to offer in just about every department. Add great whale watching from Sawtell Beach’s headland, consistent surf and lots of good swimming spots to the mix and it’s really no wonder so many people love Sawtell (us included).

Sawtell Beach | Sawtell NSW 2452

10. Emerald Beach

Well known as a stellar surfing destination, Emerald Beach can be found just 20km up the coast from Coffs Harbour. Perfect for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and fishing, this beach is surrounded by bushland, making it an ideal spot for those who like a quiet family getaway. Dog-friendly in one section, you can even enjoy an easy weekend stroll with your leashed pooch north of Fiddamans Creek and south of Diggers Head. Coffee addicts, before you start panicking, this beach isn’t so far out of the way that you’ll risk missing out on your morning latte – oh, no. Because right behind Emerald Beach you’ll find a selection of cafes and restaurants just waiting to welcome you in. So, what are you waiting for?

Emerald Beach | Emerald Beach NSW 2456

Meg Miller

Digital Marketing Manager. Adventure seeking writer, free spirit, smitten aunt and dog mum.