16 perfectly placed Coffs Harbour accommodation picks

Carla Grossetti Carla Grossetti
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Character-filled hotels, resorts, Airbnbs and bed-and-breakfasts round out our pick of the best Coffs Harbour accommodation.

From absolute beachfront homes and rustic hinterland cabins to a resort offering wraparound views of the Great Dividing Range and Pacific Ocean, Coffs Harbour accommodation offers a smorgasbord of ultra-cool stays. Here, we pinpoint our favourites within the holiday hot spot and within the wider Coffs Coast.

1. Sapphire Sands Beach House

the view from the living room of the pool at Sapphire Sands Beach House, Coffs Harbour
The four-bedroom abode sits metres away from the beach.

Make sure your hair is perfectly coiffed during your stay at Sapphire Sands Beach House so you can snap stellar selfies while swanning about poolside. The four-bedroom home, which sleeps up to 10 guests, sits metres away from Sapphire Beach, which is one of the loveliest spots on the Coffs Coast.

Bags the main bedroom and book a long stay so you can take advantage of the infinity-edge swimming pool and 12-person heated spa, gourmet galley kitchen, thatched gazebo with comfy lounges and complimentary fishing rods.

Address: 12a Beachfront Close, Sapphire Beach

2. Barellen Beach House

the sun room interior at Barellen Beach House, Coffs Harbour
The interiors feature a soothing palette of cream and tan with rattan furniture and oversized seashells also making an appearance.

Barellen Beach House is a sophisticated space that looks like it could have been airlifted in from The Hamptons. The five-bedroom waterfront hangout, which sleeps 10, spills directly onto Safety Beach and offers magical views of the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

It’s awash with nautical vibes spanning giant seashells, life buoys and porthole wall mirrors sourced from all over the world, including India, Europe and Africa.

The word Barellen represents ‘the meeting of the waters’ in the local Indigenous language, to which the owners like to refer the home itself, a charming rendezvous point for your favourite people.

Address: 18 Ocean Drive, Safety Beach

3. Diggers Beach Cottage

the living room at Diggers Beach Cottage, Coffs Harbour
Settle into the charming Diggers Beach Cottage.

If you stir early enough, you’ll have the entire beach to yourself at Diggers Beach Cottage, located on prime real estate near Coffs Harbour’s pretty Diggers Beach.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom estate blends coastal with country, creating a calming oasis that sleeps up to six people, just 10 minutes from the centre of town. Rifle through the selection of books and board games, kick back in the beautifully maintained courtyard or get your hands dirty in the luxurious gourmet kitchen.

Address: 2 Diggers Headland Place, Diggers Beach, Coffs Harbour

4. Hernani Wilderness Hut

the Hernani Wilderness Hut in Coffs Harbour
Hernani Wilderness Hut is the perfect place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.

Weave your way through Dorrigo National Park to get to Hernani Wilderness Hut, a property that should appeal to anybody seeking off-grid tranquillity. The eco-friendly escape, which sleeps nine people, is located about 1.5 hour’s drive west of Coffs Harbour so it really is just you and the greatest of outdoors. Expect old-school country comforts such as a slow-combustion fireplace and colourful crochet blankets as you go bush in cosy comfort.

Address: 10392 Armidale Road, Hernani

5. ArtHOUSE

While creativity defines your stay at ArtHOUSE, it’s the sensational views that take centre stage. A boutique property split into three self-contained apartments on Emerald Beach, it’s designed for couples but can accommodate up to four people in each. Featuring easterly aspects overlooking Emerald Beach (go for ArtHOUSE 3 for the most exceptional views), you’ll be treated to enclosed verandahs, queen size beds, air conditioning, robes, laundry facilities, flat screen TVs and more. There’s a cafe next door but nobody will blame you if you never want to leave.

Address: 1 Surf Street, Emerald Beach

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6. Hampton on the Beach

the seating area at Hampton on the Beach, Coffs Harbour
The sprawling four-bedroom house is what beach house dreams are made of.

It doesn’t get any more delicious in Sapphire than this. Hampton on the Beach is a four-bedroom marvel that offers instant access to Sapphire Beach’s sandy shores.

All the bells and whistles are naturally thrown in, including a yoga studio, a media room, a fireplace, a gourmet kitchen and even an optional concierge service that grabs groceries and arranges a cook for you. Beachfront decadence direct from your holiday dreams.

Address: 13 Emerald Avenue, Sapphire Beach

7. Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa

the interior of Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa, Coffs Harbour
Villas are spacious and comfortable.

Fallen head over heels for Sapphire? Rest your head in style at Nautilus Beachfront Villas & Spa, located right off the sand and offering self-contained apartment living.

Pick your poison out of studio, one, two or three-bedroom stays as you seize the opportunity to laze poolside, dip into the spa, get your sweat on in the exercise space, play tennis at the two full-size courts and let the kids wear themselves out within two shallow wading pools. A reliably comfortable family-friendly hot spot.

Address: 8 Solitary Islands Way, Sapphire Beach

8. Opal Cove Resort

Coffs Harbour’s infamous views, spanning the mountain and the sea, can be soaked up in full at Opal Cove Resort. Whether you’re booking a summer stay or winter escape, the resort’s location near Korora Bay means you’ve got a great sun-splashed position all year round. Enjoy a plunge in the outdoor pool fitted with a water slide and sun deck or just pop across the manicured lawns for a swim in the turquoise sea. Spa Elements is located on-site so you can indulge in your favourite treatment before chasing it with dinner at Horizons Restaurant.

Address: Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour

9. Pacific Bay Resort

a one bedroom with private balcony at Pacific Bay Resort, Coffs Harbour
Nautical-inspired decor features throughout.

Pacific Bay Resort has earned a reputation for being one of Coffs Harbour’s premier stays. And, as the sister hotel to Jonah’s in Sydney’s Whale Beach and the nearby Bonville Golf Resort where you can stay and play, it’s in good company.

Pacific Bay’s rooms range from studio configurations to three-bedroom apartments and plush penthouse suites. If the sun’s shining, dine on local seafood on the outdoor terrace at Bayside Bar and Grill, adjacent to the lagoon or take aim at the nine-hole golf course. There’s also Tranquillity Day Spa, buffing and shining holidaymakers seven days a week.

Address: Corner Pacific Highway and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour

10. Pacific Towers Beach Resort

This absolute beachfront hotel is expertly dressed in subdued colours to let those stunning sea and sky views act as artworks. Settle into one of Pacific Towers Beach Resort’s self-contained apartments to spot, if you’re lucky, whales migrating throughout the glistening waters. Enjoy a spot of tennis, swim laps in the 20-metre pool, and soak in the heated spa. You can also join a fishing charter from the Coffs Harbour International Marina, located just nearby.

Address: 121 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour

11. BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort

This tropical-inspired resort, positioned right on Diggers Beach, is a great place for a family-friendly gallivant. For the ultimate all-immersive experience, opt for one of BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort’s Paradise Spa Bures, decked out like a traditional Balinese hut with a king bed and spa bath. The resort provides all the creature comforts your clan will nee,d including three tennis courts, four swimming pools, two outdoor spas, a kids’ play area, a barbecue area, a gym and a day spa.

Address: 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour

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12. The Pier Hotel

a room with twin beds at The Pier Hotel, Coffs Harbour
Stay within walking distance of all the action at the classy Pier Hotel.

Book any one of the beautiful queen, single or twin-share rooms at The Pier Hotel to stay within walking distance of the Jetty precinct, the marina and waterfront walking and cycling paths. Savvy travellers have been staying overnight at the pub, one of the best pubs within the Coffs Coasts, since 1905 and although you can no longer tether your horse to a hitching rail, you will score secure alarmed parking if you’re riding a motorcycle. Non-motorcycle travellers will still get free wi-fi, LED TVs and plush bedding.

Address: 356 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour

13. Ibis Budget

the outdoor at Ibis Budget, Coffs Harbour
What the Ibis lacks in beachfront location, it makes up for in value and an inground pool.

Although the Ibis Budget sits a little bit back from the coastline, it’s a perfect option for families keen to stick to Coffs Harbour’s centre. The 70-room hotel has a mix of standard rooms with queen beds as well as rooms with singles and bunks so it caters for every style of family. There’s also a swimming pool, a laundry and free-flowing wi-fi to help everyone relax.

Address: 1A McLean Street, Corner Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour

14. Quality Hotel City Centre

the spacious bedroom at Quality Hotel City Centre, Coffs Harbour
The Quality Hotel City Centre is perfect for business travellers.

The Quality Hotel City Centre is smack bang in the centre of Coffs Harbour, making it well suited for urbanites who want to be within walking distance of the best places to eat and drink.

The rooms in this low-key hotel span queen-bed executive-style, king-bed suites and three-bedroom apartments. Grab a relaxed feed at Marinara Restaurant, open for breakfast and dinner and dishing up modern Australian fare with Italian inspiration. Facilities include a fitness centre, outdoor pool, laundry services and on-site parking.

Address: 22 Elizabeth Street, Coffs Harbour

15. Coffs Coast Mountain Retreat

Head for the hills with a stay at Coffs Coast Mountain Retreat. Plunging you right into the beautiful Orara Valley, the property features two beautifully appointed cabins fitted with hot tubs, outdoor dining settings, barbecues, fire pits, fully equipped kitchens and all your linen. Plus, four-legged friends are welcome. The owners are firmly focused on ensuring they leave the planet in better shape than when they entered it so you can count on solar power, all-natural materials and upcycled features throughout.

Address: 84 Gundarene Road, Lowanna

16. Friday Creek Retreat

scenic views of the surrounding valley at Friday Creek Retreat
Friday Creek Retreat is nestled among the rolling green hills of the Orara Valley.

Journey 20 minutes inland from Coffs Harbour to find the stunning Friday Creek Retreat in the Orara Valley. Set among rolling green hills, the Coffs Coast accommodation offers nine cottages with fully equipped kitchens and open fireplaces.

And while you’re certainly out in the middle of the forest, there’s still plenty to indulge in. An outdoor pool puts you right into the fresh country air while a poolside barbecue space is fitted with a woodfire pizza oven to inspire party times.

Address: 267 Friday Creek Road, Upper Orara

For more unexpected wonders of the Coffs Coast, read our guide to Coffs Harbour and beyond.

This article was originally written by Carla Grossetti with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

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Carla Grossetti
Carla Grossetti avoided accruing a HECS debt by accepting a cadetship with News Corp. at the age of 18. After completing her cadetship at The Cairns Post Carla moved south to accept a position at The Canberra Times before heading off on a jaunt around Canada, the US, Mexico and Central America. During her career as a journalist, Carla has successfully combined her two loves – of writing and travel – and has more than two decades experience switch-footing between digital and print media. Carla’s CV also includes stints at delicious., The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Australian, where she specialises in food and travel. Carla also based herself in the UK where she worked at Conde Nast Traveller, and The Sunday Times’ Travel section before accepting a fulltime role as part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK. Carla and has been freelancing for Australian Traveller for more than a decade, where she works as both a writer and a sub editor.
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Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

    Elise Cullen Elise Cullen
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    Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

    Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

    From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

    vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare
    From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

    Central Coast oyster experiences

    From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

    But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast, however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

    Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

    guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food
    Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

    Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed. Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

    shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm
    Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

    Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

    While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

    Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

    Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s.

    If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

    woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong
    Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

    Organic dining

    What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

    The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

    Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics. Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

    farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics
    See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

    Paddock-to-plate dining

    High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

    Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

    woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food
    Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare. One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

    Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

    cocktail at Bells At Killcare
    Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

    Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

    16 Coffs Harbour Accommodation Picks For Every Budget