Sawtell

With its laid-back beachside vibe, excellent surf breaks, and a main street lined with cafes and boutiques, Sawtell is the kind of place where you immediately feel your shoulders drop. Just a short drive south of Coffs Harbour, this former holiday hideaway has evolved into a destination in its own right, beloved by families, surfers, and anyone who appreciates a good flat white within earshot of the waves.

Highlights & What to See

• Sawtell Beach – A sweeping crescent of golden sand, patrolled in summer and backed by a grassy foreshore park. The northern end catches consistent swells for surfing; the southern end is calmer for swimming.
• Bonville Creek – A peaceful tidal estuary perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a gentle kayak trip through mangroves. Hire gear from the kiosk on the Esplanade.
• Sawtell Main Street (First Avenue) – A vibrant strip of independent cafes, bakeries, and boutiques. Don't miss the legendary Bellingen Gelato Bar for handcrafted gelato, or Old Sawtell Bakery for a classic meat pie.
• Boambee Creek Reserve – A hidden gem with a boardwalk winding through paperbark forest and mangroves, leading to a quiet swimming spot. Look out for sea eagles and kingfishers.
• Sawtell Village Markets (4th Saturday of the month) – A community market with artisan crafts, local produce, and live music held in the park behind the surf club.

Suggested Time to Spend

Sawtell makes an ideal day trip from Coffs Harbour (20 minutes south) or a relaxed overnight stay. If you're just passing through, allow 2–3 hours for a beach walk, a coffee on the Esplanade, and a quick browse of the shops. To fully appreciate the area – including a kayak on Bonville Creek and a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants – plan for a half-day to a full day. For those wanting to soak up the coastal atmosphere, a two-night stopover gives you time to explore nearby beaches and hinterland villages.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – Just 15 minutes north, with the iconic Big Banana, Coffs Harbour Jetty, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.
• Bellingen – A charming artsy town 25 minutes inland, famous for its heritage buildings, Saturday markets, and swimming holes in the Bellinger River.
• Dorrigo National Park – About 45 minutes west, home to ancient Gondwana rainforests, the dramatic Dorrigo Skywalk, and tumbling waterfalls.
• Urunga – A laid-back coastal village 10 minutes south with a long boardwalk over the lagoon and excellent fishing.
• Woolgoolga – A surf town 20 minutes north, renowned for its long beach, Sikh temple, and the Woolgoolga Lake area.

Please check official sources for current details.