Moonee Beach

Moonee Beach is a serene, crescent-shaped stretch of sand just north of Coffs Harbour, beloved for its uncrowded shores, clear waters, and lush hinterland backdrop. It’s the kind of place where you can spread out a towel, watch the waves roll in, and feel a world away from the more touristy beaches further south. The beach is patrolled in summer and offers excellent swimming, while the adjacent Moonee Beach Reserve provides picnic facilities and a playground, making it a favorite with families and nature lovers alike.

Highlights & What to See

• Moonee Beach Reserve – a grassy parkland with barbecues, picnic tables, and a children’s playground, perfect for a relaxed day out.
• Swimming & Surfing – the beach offers gentle waves for beginners and a patrolled area during the warmer months; more experienced surfers can head to the northern end.
• Moonee Creek – a tidal creek at the southern end of the beach, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or spotting birds and marine life.
• Bushwalking Trails – several short walks through the coastal scrub and paperbark forests, including a track to the nearby headland with panoramic views.
• Local Produce – the Moonee Beach Shopping Centre (just across the road) has a popular bakery, a fruit shop, and a café serving excellent coffee.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that half a day is ample to enjoy Moonee Beach – swim, picnic, and take a short walk. If you’re keen on exploring the creek by kayak or doing a longer bushwalk, plan for a full day. It’s also a lovely spot to wind down after a road trip along the Pacific Highway, as it’s only a few minutes off the main road.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – just 15 minutes south, with the iconic Big Banana, the Botanic Garden, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.
• Emerald Beach – a quieter, dog-friendly beach a short drive north, great for a sunset stroll.
• Sawtell – a charming village with a vibrant café scene, a historic jetty, and a patrolled surf beach.
• Dorrigo National Park – about 40 minutes inland, part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, featuring dramatic waterfalls and ancient trees.
• Bellingen – a creative, artsy town in the Bellinger Valley, known for its markets, galleries, and river swimming spots.

Please check official sources for current details.