Coffs Harbour Jetty

Stroll along the weathered timber boards of Coffs Harbour Jetty and you’ll feel the salty pulse of this working harbour. Once the lifeblood of the region’s banana and timber trade, today the jetty is a beloved community hub where fishing boats bob beside seafood shacks and the distant sound of waves crashing on the breakwall sets a relaxed coastal rhythm. It’s the perfect spot to kick off a coastal exploration, with a breezy foreshore park, family-friendly beach, and a string of cafés that make the most of the daily catch.

Highlights & What to See

• The Jetty Walk – Amble the full length of the historic timber jetty (over 250 m) for classic harbour views and a front-row seat to pelicans and local anglers. At the far end, look back for a postcard-perfect shot of the Coffs Coast.
• Breakwall Art Trail – Follow the breakwall south of the jetty, where hundreds of colourful, painted rocks and pebbles form a quirky, ever-changing outdoor gallery created by locals and visitors.
• Foreshore Park & Playground – A grassy expanse with picnic tables, a kids’ playground, and a swimming enclosure – ideal for families. Grab fish and chips from a nearby takeaway and settle in for sunset.
• Seafood & Café Scene – The jetty precinct is a mini foodie destination. Try the grilled barramundi at The Boathouse or a flat white from a kiosk overlooking the marina – local prawns and oysters are a must.
• Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve – A short walk from the jetty along the breakwall leads to this island sanctuary. Climb the boardwalk for sweeping coastal views and, from September to April, watch tens of thousands of wedge-tailed shearwaters return to their burrows at dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least 2–3 hours to fully enjoy Coffs Harbour Jetty. Begin with a leisurely walk along the jetty and breakwall, then settle in at a café or picnic spot. If you’re keen on the Muttonbird Island walk or plan to linger for sunset, budget a half-day – it’s an easy, unhurried experience that pairs perfectly with a morning or afternoon in the wider Coffs Harbour area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden – A lush, 20-hectare garden showcasing rainforest, heath, and mangroves, with walking trails and a popular Sunday market.
• Park Beach – The main surf beach, just a 5-minute drive south, with patrolled swimming and a long stretch of sand for walking.
• Dorrigo National Park – About 45 minutes inland, this World Heritage-listed rainforest offers spectacular waterfalls, skywalk, and hiking trails.
• Solitary Islands Coastal Walk – A multi-day walking track that hugs the coastline; a great day-walk option is the section from Coffs Harbour to Sawtell.
• Clog Barn & Caravan Park – A quirky local attraction with a miniature Dutch village and clog-making demonstrations – a hit with families.
• Bellingen – A charming hinterland town 30 minutes south, known for its arts scene, river swimming, and weekend markets.

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