Big Banana

Australia’s original ‘big thing’, the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour is a beloved roadside icon and a fun-filled family attraction. This giant yellow banana is more than just a photo op – it’s the centrepiece of a sprawling theme park with ice-skating, toboggan rides, a water park, and a working banana plantation where you can learn about the region’s banana-growing history. It’s a classic slice of Australian kitsch that’s both nostalgic and genuinely entertaining.

Highlights & What to See

• Pose with the Big Banana: The original 13-metre-long concrete banana is the ultimate selfie spot – arrive early to beat the crowds.
• Banana Plantation Tour: Hop on the ‘Plantation Express’ train to see how bananas are grown; the tour includes a tasting of fresh bananas and banana fritters.
• Thrills & Chills: Race down the alpine toboggan run, strap on skates at the indoor ice rink, or cool off in the water park (summer only).
• Banana-themed treats: Don’t leave without trying a banana smoothie, banana split, or the famous banana fritters from the café.
• World of Bananas Theatre: A short film that tells the story of the Big Banana and the local banana industry – cheesy but charming.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours here, which is enough to ride the toboggan, take the plantation tour, and grab a snack. If you have kids who want to hit the water park or ice rink, budget a half-day (4–5 hours). The site is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and it’s best visited in the morning before the midday heat and crowds arrive.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour: The city centre is just a 5-minute drive away, with beaches, the Coffs Harbour Jetty, and the Solitary Islands Marine Park for snorkelling.
• Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve: A short walk from the marina offers stunning coastal views and seabird colonies.
• Dorrigo National Park: 45 minutes inland, this World Heritage rainforest has spectacular waterfalls and walking trails.
• Bellingen: A laid-back artsy town 30 minutes south, known for its creative community and the Bellingen River.
• Sawtell: A charming beachside village 15 minutes south with a great café scene and patrolled beach.

Please check official sources for current details.