Miles of pristine beaches, a mild sub-tropical climate, untouched wilderness and relaxed seaside settlements make this perfect holiday territory. A huge assortment of accommodation from well serviced camping/caravanning facilities to luxury resort complexes is available throughout this area.
Myall Lakes has houseboat hire, and towns like Forster-Tuncurry, Port Macquarie and Nambucca Heads have seasonally patrolled beaches that are extremely popular with families. Meridian Resort at Old Bar Beach ( out from Taree) has fantastic self contained units right on the beach. Old Bar is still a relaxed undeveloped reserve with abundant wildlife including a local dolphin pod. Coffs Harbour quadruples its population in the holiday season with attractions like the Big Banana and the Pet Porpoise Pool. Dorrigo just 40km west of Coffs Harbour is set amidst majestic scenery and has an active art and craft scene. Call into A Touch of Country for a browse and a bite to eat. Dangar Falls, and the World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park are fantastic for bushwalkers.
To the north is Grafton, famous for its Jacaranda Festival held in Oct/Nov and Nimbin with its colourful shop fronts and alternative culture. Drive The Rainforest Way to explore World Heritage rain forest, friendly pubs, interesting cafes and quaint hinterland villages. Lismore has a fantastic Regional Art Gallery, while the white sandy beaches of Ballina and Byron Bay (Australia’s most easterly point) are perfect for a swim, surf or spot of fishing. Cape Byron is a popular spot for whale watching around July.