Sawtell Beach

Just south of Coffs Harbour, Sawtell Beach is a laid-back coastal gem with a village feel that instantly slows your pace. The beach itself is a sweeping arc of golden sand, perfect for swimming, surfing, and long walks, while the adjacent town offers a surprising food scene and a genuine community vibe. It’s a favourite with families and surfers alike, and the headland lookout at sunset is pure magic.

Highlights & What to See

• Sawtell Beach – a long, patrolled beach with gentle waves for swimming and a northern end that attracts surfers. The grassy foreshore is ideal for picnics.
• Sawtell Headland Walking Track – a short coastal walk with panoramic views over the ocean and headland; keep an eye out for whales during migration (June–November).
• Bonville Creek – a peaceful spot for kayaking or paddleboarding, with mangroves and birdlife just behind the dunes.
• Sawtell Village – a compact main street with excellent coffee, boutique shops, and a lively Sunday market (first Sunday of the month) selling local produce and crafts.
• Boambee Creek Reserve – a protected estuary with calm swimming and walking trails through coastal forest.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a full day is enough to soak up the beach, explore the village, and do the headland walk. If you’re using it as a stopover on a Sydney–Brisbane road trip, an overnight stay gives you a relaxed morning swim and a coffee before hitting the road. For a longer stay, two or three days allow you to explore nearby national parks and the Coffs Harbour region.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – 15 minutes north, with the Big Banana, the Botanic Garden, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.
• Bellingen – a gorgeous hinterland town 25 minutes west, known for its arts scene, markets, and swimming holes in the Never Never River.
• Dorrigo National Park – 45 minutes west, a World Heritage-listed rainforest with spectacular waterfalls and the Skywalk lookout.
• Urunga Boardwalk – 15 minutes south, a long boardwalk over wetlands and coastal lagoons; great for birdwatching.
• Nambucca Heads – 30 minutes south, with the iconic V-Wall painted rocks and a lovely sheltered beach.

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