Sawtell Beach

With its powdery white sand, clear turquoise water, and a laid-back village atmosphere, Sawtell Beach is a quintessential North Coast escape. Just a 10-minute drive south of Coffs Harbour, this patrolled beach offers gentle waves perfect for swimming and bodyboarding, while the adjacent café-lined streets buzz with a friendly, surf-town energy. It’s a slice of coastal bliss that feels a world away from the highway.

Highlights & What to See

• Swim and surf at the main beach – The protected bay creates calm conditions ideal for families, while the northern end picks up decent swells for experienced surfers.
• Stroll the Sawtell Headland walking track – A short coastal path offers panoramic views from Boambee Headland to the Solitary Islands. Keep an eye out for whales during migration season (June–November).
• Explore the Sawtell Village – Wander the main street’s boutiques, galleries, and bakeries. Don’t miss the Sawtell Beach Surf Life Saving Club for a cold beer with ocean views.
• Picnic at the Boambee Creek Reserve – A peaceful spot where the creek meets the sea, perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, and a barbecue under the paperbarks.
• Visit the Sawtell RSL Memorial Club – An unexpected gem with a huge deck overlooking the beach, serving classic pub fare and hosting live music on weekends.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day here – morning swim, lunch in the village, and an afternoon walk along the headland. If you’re short on time, a couple of hours is enough for a quick dip and a coffee at one of the beachfront cafes. For a relaxed pace, consider an overnight stay in one of the holiday apartments or B&Bs just steps from the sand.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – 10 minutes north, with the iconic Big Banana, the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, and the Coffs Harbour Jetty precinct.
• Bellingen – A 25-minute drive inland to a charming artsy town on the Bellinger River, known for its Sunday markets, live music, and rainforest walks.
• Dorrigo National Park – 45 minutes west, part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, featuring dramatic waterfalls and ancient Antarctic beech trees.
• Urunga – 15 minutes south, where the Kalang and Bellinger Rivers meet the sea, offering boardwalk trails, oyster leases, and a laid-back fishing village vibe.
• Nambucca Heads – 30 minutes south, with the famous V-Wall rock art, a sheltered beach, and the Nambucca River perfect for kayaking.

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