How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

There are several ways to get from Melbourne Victoria to the Gold Coast Queensland, and vice versa, including flying, driving, bus, and train. Here, I will go through the four ways of getting to the Gold Coast.

Flying is the most popular option considering time and cost, although, the driving route is also popular being a very scenic drive especially after Sydney where, if you take the coastal route, features many coastal communities, natural attractions, and beaches.

Fly

There are over 20 flights a day from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Gold Coast Airport (OOL) and the airlines servicing this route are

  • Jetstar – www.jetstar.com
  • Virgin Australia – www.virginaustralia.com
  • Tiger – tigerair.com.au
  • Qantas – www.qantas.com

Flight time is around 2 hours. Prices range from $70-200 depending on price wars between Tiger and Jetstar, promotions, and time of year. While you should check them all for their latest offers, as you’d expect, Jetstar and Tiger are normally the cheapest with Qantas being the dearest and Virgin somewhere between.

You can also fly from Avalon Airport (AVV) to Gold Coast Airport (OOL) with Jetstar offering one daily flight at the time of writing.

Another option is to fly from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Brisbane Airport and take a bus or train to the Gold Coast. The train journey from Brisbane to the Gold Coast is around 95mins. The same airlines that fly to the Gold Coast also fly to Brisbane Airport.

Drive

The distance from Melbourne to the Gold Coast is around 1,700 km via M31 and Pacific Hwy/A1 taking 18 hours not including stops.

According to the Queensland Government, you should take a break every 2 hours and don’t drive for more than 8–10 hours per day. The NSW Government also recommends regular breaks and to be mindful of the dangers of driver fatigue. The Victorian TAC (Transport Accident Commission) also recommend

  • Have your car serviced and given a proper safety check-up
  • Map out your trip – make sure you allow plenty of time to get to your destination, including rest stops
  • Take regular breaks (at least one every two hours) and pull over for a power nap as soon you feel tired or fatigued.
  • Share the driving if possible
  • Never drink alcohol, not even small amounts, before or during a long trip
  • Have a few good nights’ sleep before heading off
  • Don’t drive when you would normally be sleeping

There is a really handy map for finding rest areas in NSW here.

Fortunately, there are lots of beautiful and interesting places to stop and rest along this journey.

From Melbourne to Sydney on the M31

  • Glenrowan –  see the home of Ned Kelly
  • Holbrook – home to a submarine
  • Gundagai – home of the famous Dog on the Tuckerbox
  • Goulburn – home to the big Merino

After Sydney and taking the coastal route, M1 and A1, you may like to stop at these coastal spots

  • Hunter Valley – scenic vineyards
  • Port Stephens – beach and coast
  • Myall Lakes – freshwater lakes, national park, and coast
  • Forster – beaches and lakes
  • Port Macquarie – beaches, Koala Hospital, national parks
  • Coffs Harbour – coast and beaches
  • Byron Bay – community, coast and beaches

Bus

Greyhound Australia offers a daily service that leaves from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne CBD in the morning and arriving in Surfers Paradise Gold Coast the following day. Journey time around 30 hours.

The coach service is modern, with a/c, toilets, some may offer wifi and USB chargers. Ticket prices range from $200 and up.

  • Greyhound Australia – www.greyhound.com.au

Train

You can take a train service from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne CBD to Surfers Paradise via Sydney. The train from Melbourne heads to Sydney Central Station (taking around 11h) where you change train. The next train runs from Sydney to Casino (taking 11h 38min) where you then take a connecting coach to Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast (taking 1h 50min).

Total journey time of around 37 hours. Adult tickets begin around $145 and if taking the afternoon service you can also book a sleeper compartment for an extra fee. The service leaving in the afternoon has a faster total journey time of around 33 hours.

Alternatively, you can take the train to Brisbane (Roma St Station) and then the train from Brisbane to the Gold Coast (Helensvale Station). The journey time and cost are increased by the Brisbane to Gold Coast leg by 90+ mins and $35.

  • NSW Trainlink – https://transportnsw.info

Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedJul 14, 2022

How long is the drive from Melbourne to the Gold Coast?

The direct drive from Melbourne to the Gold Coast is 1061 mi (1707 km), and should have a drive time of 16 hrs 15 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Melbourne to the Gold Coast, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Sydney, Canberra, Katoomba, Cessnock, Port Macquarie, Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, Newcastle, Pokolbin, and Greater Bendigo and top places to visit like Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum and Bondi to Coogee Walk, or the ever-popular Cupitt's Estate.

40 stops

Cities / Attractions

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How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

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Top cities between Melbourne and the Gold Coast

The top cities between Melbourne and Gold Coast are Sydney, Canberra, Katoomba, Cessnock, Port Macquarie, Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, Newcastle, Pokolbin, and Greater Bendigo. Sydney is the most popular city on the route — it's 8 hours from Melbourne and 8 hours from Gold Coast.

1

Greater Bendigo

The City of Greater Bendigo is a local government area in Victoria, Australia, located in the central part of the state. It covers an area of 3,000 square kilometres and, in June 2021, had a population of 123,632.

54 minutes off the main route, 9% of way to the Gold Coast

2

Canberra

Sights & Landmarks

Monuments & Statues

Canberra

is the capital city of Australia. Founded following the federation of the colonies of Australia as the seat of government for the new nation, it is Australia's largest inland city and the eighth-largest city overall. Unusual among Australian cities, it is an entirely planned city.

31 minutes off the main route, 37% of way to the Gold Coast

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How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

3

Katoomba

Katoomba is the chief town of the City of Blue Mountains in New South Wales, Australia, and the administrative headquarters of Blue Mountains City Council. Katoomba is situated on the Great Western Highway 102 km west of Sydney and 39 km south-east of Lithgow. Katoomba railway station is on the Main Western line.

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The Blue Mountains takes a couple hours’ drive to visit from Sydney, with the most popular base for viewing being the township of Katoomba. While this is reachable from Sydney’s Central Station via train, day tours are both a convenient and viable option for making getting there easier and providing further insight into the region.

Katoomba is the biggest town, located on the fringe of the Blue Mountains National Park and its bushwalking trails. For the best views of the famous Three Sisters rock formation, head to Echo Point.

58 minutes off the main route, 49% of way to the Gold Coast

4

Sydney

Sydney, capital of New South Wales and one of Australia's largest cities, is best known for its harbourfront Sydney Opera House, with a distinctive sail-like design. Massive Darling Harbour and the smaller Circular Quay port are hubs of waterside life, with the arched Harbour Bridge and esteemed Royal Botanic Garden nearby. Sydney Tower’s outdoor platform, the Skywalk, offers 360-degree views of the city and suburbs.

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If you follow this three week Australia itinerary, you’ll get to visit Australia’s two best cities, Sydney and Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, Uluru, the Outback, see wildlife, and the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road. Of course, I have to leave out some amazing places like Western Australia and Tasmania. It’s just not possible to do it all in three weeks!

You'll either fly into Sydney or Melbourne, so for the sake of this blog we'll go with Sydney. This harbourside city has so many amazing things to do and is a great place to shake off the jetlag.

Most popular city on this route

11 minutes off the main route, 49% of way to the Gold Coast

5

Cessnock

Cessnock is a city in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia, about 52 km by road west of Newcastle. It is the administrative centre of the City of Cessnock LGA and was named after an 1826 grant of land called Cessnock Estate, which was owned by John Campbell.

22 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to the Gold Coast

6

Pokolbin

Pokolbin is a rural locality in the Hunter Region of New South Wales Australia. It is part of the Singleton Council local government area and the city of Cessnock. The area is the centre of the Lower Hunter Valley wine region. Pokolbin lies within the Hunter Valley Important Bird Area.

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Bushwalk through the rugged Yengo National Park to visit Aboriginal cultural heritage sites, or browse the galleries and antiques at historic villages of Morpeth, Wollombi and Broke. Afterwards be pampered at one of the Hunter’s many day spas before spending the night at five-star luxury resort, Château Élan at The Vintage.

28 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to the Gold Coast

7

Newcastle

Sights & Landmarks

Monuments & Statues

Points of Interest & Landmarks

Newcastle is a harbour city in the Australian state of New South Wales. Its plentiful beaches are linked by the Bathers Way, a coastal walk stretching between Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach. The walk provides access to Bogey Hole, a convict-built ocean bath from the colonial period. Also on the path is the 1880s Fort Scratchley, a historic site and a viewpoint for spotting migrating whales.

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Explore New South Wales (NSW) with this 9-day road trip covering a wide range of adventures beginning from Sydney to the Central Coast, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains. Sydney is a great base for epic road trips. After our 7 Day South Coast Road Trip — where we drove all the way to Mount Kosciuszko (Australia’s Tallest Peak) — we wanted to see more. This time, we head up north of Sydney and the Blue Mountains to explore the best sights, thrills and nature NSW has to offer.

If you have a little more time you could stop in Newcastle or Port Macquarie, but as we’re rushing to only the best places along the east coast, I’d recommend getting as far north in this first day as possible, and realistically, this is Coffs Harbour. Drive to Sealy Lookout for incredible views over the city and then grab a beer and toast to the first night of your Australian road trip!

13 minutes off the main route, 58% of way to the Gold Coast

8

Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie is a town at the mouth of the Hastings River in New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its beaches, wildlife and penal colony past. St. Thomas' Anglican Church was built by convicts in the 19th century. A coastal walk from the town centre to the 19th-century Tacking Point Lighthouse offers views over waters home to whales and dolphins. Billabong Zoo is known for its koala breeding centre.

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If you have a little more time you could stop in Newcastle or Port Macquarie, but as we’re rushing to only the best places along the east coast, I’d recommend getting as far north in this first day as possible, and realistically, this is Coffs Harbour. Drive to Sealy Lookout for incredible views over the city and then grab a beer and toast to the first night of your Australian road trip!

11 minutes off the main route, 71% of way to the Gold Coast

9

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a city on the north coast of New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its beaches and the Big Banana monument and amusement park. In the waters off Coffs Harbour Marina is the Solitary Islands Marine Park, home to abundant wildlife, seasonal whales and coral reefs. Just east is the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, with its large population of wedge-tailed shearwater birds and learning centre.

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If you have a little more time you could stop in Newcastle or Port Macquarie, but as we’re rushing to only the best places along the east coast, I’d recommend getting as far north in this first day as possible, and realistically, this is Coffs Harbour. Drive to Sealy Lookout for incredible views over the city and then grab a beer and toast to the first night of your Australian road trip!

4 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to the Gold Coast

10

Byron Bay

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Byron Bay is a coastal town in the southeastern Australian state of New South Wales. It’s a popular holiday destination, known for its beaches, surfing and scuba diving sites. Cape Byron State Conservation Park is on a headland with a lighthouse. Between June and November, humpback whales can be spotted from headland viewpoints such as the Captain Cook Lookout.

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I could spend weeks at a time in Byron Bay, it’s just one of the coolest places to hang out in Oz. If you’re looking for the ‘travelling’ vibe, I’m pretty sure it was born here. Hippies and stoners sit happily beside party animals and leggy ladies dancing on tables in ‘Cheeky Monkeys’, a local nightlife institution. It’s a place where people from all over the world come to enjoy the surf, sea and scorching sunshine.

13 minutes off the main route, 92% of way to the Gold Coast

The top stops along the way from Melbourne to the Gold Coast (with short detours) are Sydney Opera House, Port Jackson Bay, and Circular Quay Wharf 3. Other popular stops include Cape Byron Lighthouse Cafe, Hunter Valley Gardens, and The Big Banana Fun Park.

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Cupitt's Estate

Restaurant

Brewery

Cheese shop

Farm

Manufacturer

Produce wholesaler

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My partner and I stayed here for a surprise engagement weekend and it was perfect. The detail in the rooms was fabulous. The breakfast hamper was wonderful with delicious local produce and the fridge was so very well stocked. The pod was beautifully furnished and it was set in the perfect environment, on the winery grounds but still with a secluded and quiet feel. It was extremely convenient staying right where we had dinner and a very short drive from town and the water. The food and beverages at Cupitts were also fantastic, which is why I always stop by when I am in the area. I love the wine, stopping in for a quick lunch, or indulging in a delicious three course dinner. Highly recommended!

Highly recommend a visit to the restaurant here and the other options looked quite nice also. While being new years day they had a set menu, the set menu had more options than any other set menu I have previously experienced. Glad I went with the option of the wine pairings as they had chosen wines that had complimented the dishes quite well. The food itself was perfect and nobody in our party was disappointed at all. Can't wait to go back and try the standard menu.!

What an amazing experience! We had a 3 course meal with matched wines which was absolutely superb. The service and attention was second to none. We then stayed in one of the pods, which again was magic! The fitout and attention to detail.. and the fridge stocked with all the right things. Our only regret was that it was only one night. I guess we need to come back soon and do it all over again.

4.7(925)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.5(456)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

58 Washburton Rd, Ulladulla NSW 2539, Australia

2

Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum

Natural history museum

Museums

Specialty Museums

1876 school-turned-museum with a renowned collection of fossils, minerals & dinosaur skeletons.

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A great little museum with lovely staff. I would recommend between 15 minutes to 1 hour for most. Their gift shop is also a one stop shop for dinosaur themed gifts.

Great place especially for those with kids intrested in rocks and fossils. The collection of minerals is amazing. The TRex pet section is a wonderful for young and not so young. The youn man at the desk is a credit to the museum

Absolutely must to visit if you’re in Bathurst! Great collection of minerals and fossils, lots of educational information, and some entertainment (such as microscope and fossil rubbing pictures.

4.6(580)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.5(252)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

224 Howick St, Bathurst NSW 2795, Australia

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3

Bondi to Coogee Walk

Nature & Parks

Tour operator

Hiking Trails

A 3.7-mi. oceanfront walk taking in beaches, cliffs & parks, with stop-offs at cafes & viewpoints.

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Connecting the two idyllic beaches together, the Bondi to Coogee Walk is one of the most popular and picturesque paths to stroll along in the city. Stretching just under 4 miles in length, it takes you past lots of stunning coastal scenery with fabulous views over the ocean to be enjoyed the whole way along. Meandering along the top of craggy coastal cliffs, the path passes lovely picnic areas, parks and viewpoints with the scenic, yet sombre, Waverley Cemetery being one of its main attractions.

However since we only had 3 days in Sydney I didn’t want to spend a whole day lying on the beach or on poolside, so we decided to do the famous Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This is a 6km walk all along the sea that connects the two neighbourhoods of Sydney.

We’ll start simple with one of the most well-known hikes in Sydney; the Bondi to Coogee walk. While you might have done part of this walk before, if you start at North Bondi and go all the way to Coogee and back, it becomes quite a workout!

A post shared by Emily / Freelancer + Traveler (@shesatripblog) on May 18, 2018 at 7:14pm PDT. If you want to talk statistics, Bondi beach is officially the most instagrammed location in Australia. But why stop at just one sandy stretch?

The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is one of my favourite free things to do in Sydney. A stunning coastal walk and the perfect way to spend a gorgeous few hours in Sydney

One of best iconic coastal walks to do in Sydney whether you're a tourist or local..The starting point is in Bondi Beach near the Iceberg Dining Room and Bar. It's one of my happy place to go to , just to relax and chill after a busy week at work. It's a relatively easy walk to do and do not require much fitness.However there are some sections with a slight incline and steps. This walk allows you to take a swim at a few beaches on the way, with toilet facilities at all beaches. Will take about 2 to 3 hours depending on your stops, but we did it in 1.5 hours. Highly recommended

Everytime we get guests come and stay with us, I always recommend they do this walk before leaving Sydney. It's a must. Lovely views, beautiful little bays and beaches along the way. Make sure you have a pair of good walking shoes as there are lots of steps up and down.

Scenic walk and loads of places to stop in-between. We walked with our 8 year old and she enjoyed the dips in water too. Has steep steps to cover in the walk.

4.8(1960)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

5.0(13688)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

Coogee NSW 2031, Australia

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Circular Quay Wharf 3

Ferry terminal

Transportation

Ferries

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to manly beach , a nice trip (Copyright reserved,Do not use or distribute without permission))

Great views on round trips to Manly Beach. Worth going but won’t recommend if you have crowd phobia…

4.5(122)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.5(19616)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

5

Sydney Opera House

Performing arts theater

Sights & Landmarks

Landmark, skyline-dominating arts centre for opera, theatre, music and dance, plus guided tours.

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While we suppose that "Sydney Harbour" in general could be listed here, the Sydney Opera House stands apart from the rest of the harbour's icons. Perhaps Australia's most famous man-made icon worldwide, the Sydney Opera House is a unique feat of architectural design and engineering that helps add tremendously to the character of the already scenic Sydney Harbour. A structure that was formed out of a rare combination of innovation, creativity and controversy, the Sydney Opera House is a remarkable building that is host to over 1,500 performances that draw audiences of around 1.2 million people each year.

With its sweeping sails, the iconic Sydney Opera House is the symbol of the city, set front and center on Sydney Harbour at Bennelong Point. This jaw-dropping arts center also hosts plays, dance performances, classical concerts, and contemporary music gigs by major names such as Bob Dylan, Patti Smith, Björk, New Order, Paul Weller, and Lorde. It’s home to eight flagship arts companies, including the Australian Chamber Orchestra, indigenous Bangarra Dance Theatre, Bell Shakespeare, Opera Australia, Sydney Theatre Company, Australian Ballet, Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, and Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

To tick off the “touristy” bucket list, we spent the day walking from our hotel to Hyde Park, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Royal Botanic Gardens, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Opera House, Harbor Bridge, Circular Quay, Darling Harbor – meaning 5 hours on foot, before finally taking the bus to Wildlife Zoo, then finally to Bondi for the winter beach experience. The streets of Sydney are mostly sloped terrains, letting us burn more calories. With everything that fancied my eyes, I never felt tired actually, until we got back to our hotel.

Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this Unesco World Heritage-listed building is Australia's most famous landmark. Visually referencing a yacht's sails, it's a soaring, commanding presence. The complex comprises five performance spaces for dance, concerts, opera and theatre. The best way to experience the building is to attend a performance, but you can also take a one-hour guided tour (available in several languages), with optional food. Ongoing renovation work, scheduled to be completed in 2022, may disrupt visits.

One of the hubs of music, theatre and culture in Sydney and the world is the Sydney Opera House, the modern multi-venue performing arts centre located on Sydney’s harbour. This venue, which is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, is one of the most important examples of the expressionist architectural style and is home to four resident companies who are essential to Sydney’s performing arts sphere: Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet, the Sydney Theatre Company and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

The Sydney Opera House is widely-recognized as one of the most iconic buildings in the world due to its incredibly distinct design. The building was intended to resemble a large sailing vessel that was either docked at the nearby port, or set upon the ocean near the city’s shores. Designer Jørn Utzon worked to produce a building that would offer incredible beauty, while at the same time featuring certain elements that the city of Sydney was known for like its ports and shipping business.

One of Australia’s famous landmarks, the Sydney Opera House is one of the world’s most prestigious performing arts centers. Perched on the waterfront of Bennelong Point, it is located in Sydney’s Central Business District and surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Sydney Harbour and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Visited by several million people annually, this stunning structure houses multiple venues that together host more than 1,500 performances each year.

When the relatively unknown Danish architect Jørn Utzon won the competition to design Australia’s national opera house, he probably didn’t know his design would go down in history as one of Sydney’s most famous landmarks. Stroll along the harbour and take in the pearly white exterior for free, or opt for a guided tour inside. If you really want to splurge, purchase a ticket for an upcoming opera – the incredible acoustics alone are well worth the price tag.

The most iconic tourist attraction for sightseeing in Sydney, the Sydney Opera House, is a multi-venue performing arts center in Sydney. Thanks to its soaring white roof, shell-shaped sails, and the red granite platform, the Sydney Opera House has been internationally acclaimed as an architectural icon of the 20th century and a UNESCO world heritage site. Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000Hours: Open daily, closed Christmas Day and Good Friday.

The Sydney Opera House is Australia's most recognised landmark and one of the city's most spectacular wedding venues. Ceremony and reception venues inside the Opera House include concert hall foyers, the new Yallamundi Rooms and the Utzon Room which is the only interior space designed to completion by original architect Jørn Utzon. Ceremony and reception areas inside the Opera House are light filled spaces that feature floor to ceiling glass windows.

Opened in 1973, the Sydney Opera House is not only one of Sydney’s top tourist attractions, it’s also considered one of the most famous and distinctive buildings from the 20th century. The Opera House is now a multi-venue performing arts centre with several theatres, rehearsal studios, two main halls, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. When you first lay your eyes on this majestic piece of engineering, you will be in awe.

The Quay is the main transport hub of Sydney Harbour and it’s here that two of Australia’s most famous landmarks reside; the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Wander around the Quay and take your “I was here” photo in front of these famous structures and feel the pulse of the city. There’s probably no other pace that will jolt you awake from your jet lag and have you saying to yourself “hey, I’m in Australia!

Second only to the Harbour Bridge as an iconic Sydney attraction, the Opera House is the perfect place to spend an evening in Sydney. The architectural landmark offers a wide range of shows and performances, all of which can be booked online prior to the visit. As well as the entertainment, visitors will find restaurants and bars with picturesque outlooks at this uniquely Australian attraction.

It wouldn’t be a list of awesome things to do at night in Sydney without a mention of perhaps the most famous Sydney attraction – the Sydney Opera House. You can visit during the daytime too but it is even more magical at night when the city lights turn on!. This is the perfect night activity for couples in Sydney as it provides for a fancy night and the ability to dress up to see a show!

The Sydney Opera House is a performance venue on Bennelong Point, well-known for its distinctive series of “shells” covering the roof. The Sydney Opera House opened in 1973 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Sydney Opera House offers a great program of shows for Sydney kids of all ages (check their calendar beforehand) and it’s usually possible to get last-minute tickets.

Though it was only opened in the last half of the 20th century, the Sydney Opera House is one of the city’s most iconic and recognizable landmarks to date. Step inside this architectural marvel to learn how this distinctive masterpiece was constructed. For an exclusive experience, consider a backstage tour and get an intimate look “under the sails” of the opera house.

The Sydney opera house comes in the list of the most popular buildings in the entire world., and one of the top things to do in Sydney. Being one of the most famous landmarks of Australia, you get to visit the most prestigious center for performing arts. This is considered as being an architectural masterpiece that reflects the structure of a large sailing ship.

Every school holidays the Sydney Opera House offer a Junior Adventures tour just for families. It’s a 1-hour walk through of the famous building, with visits to various auditoriums, activities and photo opportunities. It’s suitable for kids 4+ who are able to walk independently, have a long enough attention span and are able to engage with the tour guide.

Well, this one is a given on any list, as it’s undoubtedly “the” spot to grab a drink and on every tourists ‘must do’ list. The best time to head there is before the sun sinks too low so you can watch the sun set with the harbour bridge as its backdrop. With its unbeatable location on the waters of Circular Quay, you won’t quickly forget your night here.

Walk around Circular Quay – The best place to start your visit is in Circular Quay, the main transport hub of Sydney Harbour and where two of Australia’s most famous landmarks reside; Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Consider taking a 1 hour tour of the Opera House. Otherwise, just wander around and take your “I was here” photo.

A must-see in Sydney is its most iconic landmark: the Sydney Opera House and the nearby Harbour Bridge. I recommend doing the Sydney Bridge Climb, where you get to climb up the Harbour Bridge with a harness and get fantastic 360-degree panoramas of the city from above. I did that when I was 18 years old and absolutely loved the thrill of it.

The Sydney Opera House is on most Australian bucket lists as one of the top places to visit. It is iconic and has a certain electricity about it that draws visitors back again and again. Throughout the Sydney School holiday break, the Sydney Opera House offers a range of programs for kids including the super fun Opera House junior tour.

If you are wondering where to go in Sydney, start with the iconic Sydney Opera House. Truly one of the world’s architectural marvels, it tops the list of things to see while taking a trip to Australia. Danish architect Jorn Utzon’s inspired design created a world-class performing arts complex, set against the Sydney Harbour seascape.

The Sydney Opera House is a true architectural icon of Australia that you have to explore. Image credits: @deanbennett on Unsplash. The definitive Sydney attraction for tourists and Sydneysiders alike is the globally acclaimed and UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House, which you can explore on this guided walking tour:

Opera House, one of the iconic structures in the world is located in the heart of Sydney. Designed by Danish architect John Utzon and executed by Australian architect Peter Hall, Opera House is one of the oldest concert halls. Located between Sydney Cove and Farm Cove it occupies the whole Bennelong Point on Sydney Harbour.

Duration: 1 hour. An hour long guided walking tour around the Sydney Opera House with a knowledgeable and interactive guide. The tour offers a great way to learn about the buildings rich history and the story behind the buildings design.

The Sydney Opera House is another Sydney landmark that offers the Kids at the House program for children filled with a bounty of theatre options. Although these generally have a fee, each school holiday period the site opens a creative play area which is free to visit. Check the program before you visit.

Uncover mysterious secrets and unusual facts with this jam-packed journey through the Sydney Opera House. The Junior Adventure Tour is filled with interactive activities and games for the whole family: explore with the expert guides, and inspire your inner performer to become a Sydney Opera House star.

The Sydney Opera House is an iconic image of Sydney, and Australia itself. We recommend you to visit early in the morning, so you can enjoy a moment of peace in front of one of the most iconic monuments in the world. This should certainly be number one on your things to do in Sydney bucket list.

Iconic, vast, breath-taking, what word would you use to describe it?. Designed to be acoustically perfect from every seat, the Opera House hosts a variety of tours, including a 2-hour visit that goes backstage and behind the scenes. Or you might be lucky enough to get tickets for a performance.

A post shared by Kevin (@kevin.cpy) on Jul 25, 2017 at 12:09am PDT. The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre overlooking Sydney Harbour. This iconic building was designed by Jørn Utzon and was one of the first projects that showcased the benefits of computer-aided design.

Bennelong Point Sydney NSW 2000Ph 02 9250 7111 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm AEST)Email “Sydney Opera House stands by itself as one of the indisputable masterpieces of human creativity, not only in the 20th century but in the history of humankind

Visiting 8 of the cities best locations including Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Manly and Taronga Zoo, you'll have the chance to visit the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, which are two of the must-see sights in the city. Suggested Post: Sydney's Must-See Sights

Sydney opera house is undoubtedly the most visited place in Sydney by tourists and locals. Probably the most famous monument captured by photographers around the world. A late afternoon or early evening is the best time to capture the sun reflecting the sails of the Opera house.

Stops are spread across two different lines (both of which you have access to with your pass) and include major hotspots like Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour, and many more. Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Sydney tickets are available on The Sydney Pass.

This is by far the most famous – and we mean figuratively and literally. The iconic structure is known across the globe for its impressive design. If you want to delve deep into the history of the design, you can embark on one of the interesting tours the Opera House offers.

This may be called an opera house, but it’s not just a place for opera performances. You can also watch musicals, theater and dance performances at the Sydney Opera House. More than 40 shows happen here weekly, and with eight venues it’s easy for that many shows to happen.

1 km from city center 1 out of 18 places to visit in Sydney. Undoubtedly Sydney's number one tourist attraction, the Sydney Opera House is world famous. This landmark structure, built on a narrow stretch of land surrounded by water makes for a definite visit.

Ferries come and go from all over the harbour and there are always buskers there too. You need to hang on to the kids’ hands as it can be busy and even a bit scary for kids at peak hours. There are cafes and restaurants where you can watch the world bustle by.

We skipped the tour as we were on a budget break but it’s impossible to visit Sydney and not see this amazing architectural creation. Probably one of the most iconic buildings in the world it opened in 1973 and is always busy with performances of all kinds.

When you think Sydney, these white sails come to mind; as our top draw landmark, this dramatic structure is an Instagram no-brainer. Get a stunning shot from any angle; from near or far, under the sails looking up or from the ferry as you float by.

Let’s start with the obvious choice for Sydney photos – the Opera House!. This unique building was completed in 1973 and has been an iconic part of Sydney ever since. It’s also one of the best spots for viewing the Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Also try: Enjoy sunset drinks and fresh oysters at Opera Bar before catching a performance at the Sydney Opera House. The Sydney Opera House presents more than 450 performances each year, spanning classical music, comedy, theatre, dance and more.

A pretty spectacular location- the opera house is an iconic building, largely recognized all over the globe. It’s a pretty good location for photographers to take a shot. You can take shots from different spots so get creative and have some fun.

Welcoming millions of visitors each year, the Sydney Opera House is definitely an icon. The distinctive sails sit right on the edge of Sydney Harbour. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed building hosts more than 1,600 performances each year.

The architecture of the Sydney Opera House is really amazing in my opinion!. The building is so photogenic, and you can capture it from many different angles. I would really recommend visiting the Sydney Opera House when you're in Sydney!

Why not catch up in one of the most iconic buildings in Australia, let alone Sydney. An opera show in the beautiful and iconic Sydney Opera House is a great experience for all the family. Fabulous surroundings and an excuse to dress up!

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most recognisable buildings in the world and is located right in the heart of the Sydney CBD. It represents the epitome of the country’s creative endeavours and is a remarkable...

Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this magnificent building is Australia's most famous landmark. Visually referencing a yacht's sails, it's a soaring, commanding presence that comprises five performance...

You can't leave Sydney without seeing the best views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Head to Circular Quay and stroll around this incredible part of the harbour to take in the views.

Today, the Sydney Opera House holds contemporary music performances during Vivid Sydney — Known as Vivid Live — featuring local and international artists. Dinner at Pancakes On The Rocks

Experience Sydney Opera House - one of the world's most creative and busiest performing arts centres and greatest triumphs of modern architecture.

Sydney's most famous landmark (listed as a World Heritage site in 2007) had such a long and troubled construction phase that it's almost…

To top it off the tour finishes on Observatory Hill boasting amazing views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Sydney Opera house, one of the iconic structure to visit in Sydney, is a must view attraction in Sydney, just admire its design and architecture. From the Opera House you can get views of the harbour, the Harbour Bridge and of course the unique design of the Opera House itself. All these make Sydney a beautiful picture perfect city. The inside view is spectacular. A must visit place. one can have great pics with Harbour Bridge and It makes a good landmark. Do visit at night once. Also the surrounding areas are beautiful well planned and one can spend full day visiting various hubs nearby

The majestic Opera House. Doesn’t need a description. Take a ferry from one of the suburbs and get to Circular Quay. That will get you better views of the Opera House. Also try to do the Ferry to Manly beach and you get beautiful views of Opera. Most vibrant place to visit while in Sydney. Must do!!!!

Sydney Opera's one of those places where you have to stop what you are doing and chill with a cold one in one hand. Hands down one of the most important landmarks in the world. Plenty of restaurants and bars on sight, tourist attractions and of course the Opera house, a marvellous piece of architecture. Love this city, hope to travel back again.

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Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

6

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Bridge

Sights & Landmarks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

Iconic structure opened in 1932, offering a BridgeClimb & the Pylon Lookout, hosting exhibitions.

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To tick off the “touristy” bucket list, we spent the day walking from our hotel to Hyde Park, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Royal Botanic Gardens, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Opera House, Harbor Bridge, Circular Quay, Darling Harbor – meaning 5 hours on foot, before finally taking the bus to Wildlife Zoo, then finally to Bondi for the winter beach experience. The streets of Sydney are mostly sloped terrains, letting us burn more calories. With everything that fancied my eyes, I never felt tired actually, until we got back to our hotel.

On our first morning in Sydney we took our time wandering around the harbour and seeing the main sights like Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Many people decide to climb up Sydney Harbour Bridge to see the view from there, however I would recommend going up Pylon Lookout instead. There is a considerable price difference between the two (15AUD for Pylon Lookout vs 250AUD+ for the Sydney Bridge Climb) and yet the view is basically the same. The view is pretty spectacular and a great way to start your three days in Sydney.

Sydneysiders love their giant 'coathanger', which opened in 1932. The best way to experience this majestic structure is on foot. Stairs and lifts climb up the bridge from both shores, leading to a footpath on the eastern side (the western side is a bike path). Getting the train to Milsons Point and walking back towards the city is the most spectacular. Climb the southeastern pylon to the Pylon Lookout or ascend the arc on the popular but expensive BridgeClimb.

Dubbed "The Coathanger," Sydney Harbour Bridge is an incredible feat of design. The world’s largest steel through arch bridge, opened in 1932 after years of planning, it’s a vital artery, linking Sydney’s CBD (Central Business District) beside Circular Quay with the North Shore. It’s free to walk or cycle across it—with separate paths on the east and west sides, respectively—affording bird’s-eye views of the Opera House, Luna Park, and the harbor below.

Spanning one of the world’s largest harbours, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a masterpiece of construction. Upon its completion in 1932, the steel arch was the second longest in the world, with a span of more than 500 metres; soaring to a height of 134 metres above sea level, it remains the tallest of its kind. Nicknamed “The Coathanger” for its distinctive shape, the bridge has become the centrepiece of the harbour city, and a focal...

No visit to Sydney is complete without seeing the world-famous “Coat Hanger” bridge glistening over Sydney Harbour. If you’ve put aside the funds (it’s not cheap), the Harbour Bridge Climb takes you up the steel ribs of the bridge and provides some of the most astounding views of Sydney available. Otherwise, you can still get an amazing view of the bridge at Pylon Lookout, which costs 19 Australian dollars (£10.20) for entry.

Alongside the Sydney Opera House, locals to the capital city of Australia will likely argue that the next most famous structure is the Sydney Harbor Bridge. This large steel bridge is designed as one of the largest through arch bridges in the country. It was designed by John Bradfield, as well as Dorman Long, a well-known steel company in the United Kingdom that later began developing bridges using their own steel material.

The Quay is the main transport hub of Sydney Harbour and it’s here that two of Australia’s most famous landmarks reside; the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Wander around the Quay and take your “I was here” photo in front of these famous structures and feel the pulse of the city. There’s probably no other pace that will jolt you awake from your jet lag and have you saying to yourself “hey, I’m in Australia!

The world’s tallest steel arch bridge connects the northern suburbs of Sydney with the CBD. Take a stroll over the Sydney Harbour Bridge – the two access points to the pedestrian walkway are up Cumberland Street in The Rocks in the CBD and near Milsons Point train station in the north. If you and the kids are feeling energetic, climb 200 stairs to the Pylon Lookout for stunning views (admission fees apply).

To Sydneysiders, the Bridge is more than an iconic landmark, it is part of their heritage and a world-renowned symbol of Australia. Affectionately known as the “coathanger” the Sydney Harbour Bridge was opened in 1932. Today, visitors can see Sydney at its best by joining a bridgeclimb experience, getting to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge and experiencing one of Sydney’s most photographed landmarks.

Opened in 1932, the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge not only has the best looks, it’s also an incredible piece of superb engineering. Also known as the Coathanger because of its arch-based design, the 134m high Sydney Harbour Bridge connects the Sydney CBD with the city’s North Shore. One of the most popular free things to do in Sydney is actually walking across the Harbour Bridge.

Sydney Harbour Bridge, which we locals affectionately refer to as the coat hanger, is the city’s second icon, after Sydney Opera House. Families with children aged 8 and over might like to take part in an organised (and very safe, but thrilling) climb right to the top of the bridge. This is very expensive, a very special treat and one of the most iconic of Sydney adventures.

The world’s tallest steel arch bridge connects the northern suburbs of Sydney with the CBD. Take a stroll over the Sydney Harbour Bridge – the two access points to the pedestrian walkway are up Cumberland Street in The Rocks in the CBD and near Milsons Point train station in the north. Find out how to walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge for free here.

Walk around Circular Quay – The best place to start your visit is in Circular Quay, the main transport hub of Sydney Harbour and where two of Australia’s most famous landmarks reside; Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Consider taking a 1 hour tour of the Opera House. Otherwise, just wander around and take your “I was here” photo.

A must-see in Sydney is its most iconic landmark: the Sydney Opera House and the nearby Harbour Bridge. I recommend doing the Sydney Bridge Climb, where you get to climb up the Harbour Bridge with a harness and get fantastic 360-degree panoramas of the city from above. I did that when I was 18 years old and absolutely loved the thrill of it.

If you’re visiting Syndey, you wouldn’t want to miss the chance of visiting the Harbor Bridge, the Coathanger, as called by the locals. This iconic bridge isn’t just a crossing of the harbor, rather serves as an adventurous destination for visitors. Featuring an arch that stands around 134 meters above sea level, it spans 503 meters.

2 km from city center 4 out of 18 places to visit in Sydney. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic landmark of the city that connects the North Shore Sydney with the CBD. Built in 1932, the combination of the bridge, the Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House has become the most popular portrait of Sydney.

Also known as the “coat hanger”, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is the world’s largest steel arch bridge which is also an iconic symbol of Australia. This gigantic bridge connects the Sydney central business district and the North Shore. Just situated over the river, this place is a beautiful attraction in Sydney.

Affectionately known as ‘The Coathanger’ by Sydneysiders, this iconic span is an effortlessly photogenic piece of architecture. This vast stretch of steel carries cars, trains, bikes and people on foot, so you can either walk across it and take a snap or get a pic of it in all its glory from further away.

When it comes to iconic attractions in Sydney, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the top two places people want to visit. We’re often asked if it’s any good with kids and I always like to say YES!. In fact, we recommend three different ways to access the Sydney Harbour Bridge with kids.

Visiting 8 of the cities best locations including Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Manly and Taronga Zoo, you'll have the chance to visit the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, which are two of the must-see sights in the city. Suggested Post: Sydney's Must-See Sights

Create an experience to remember by taking a slow stroll across the very famous Harbour Bridge. There is a pedestrian walkway on the eastern side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge that offers some of the best views of Sydney Harbour. Access to the walkway is completely free!

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a very famous bridge in Sydney!. The bridge is very photogenic, especially when you're getting the whole bridge in the frame!. Fun fact, as the bridge has an arch-based design, the bridge has the nickname 'the coathanger'.

A must-see, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is truly an Australian icon. Spanning 503 metres across the dazzling Sydney Harbour, it truly is a masterpiece of engineering!. Get up close with a walk, ride, drive or even catch a train across.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge Did you know that the locals nicknamed the bridge ‘the coathanger’?. It’s a bit hit-and-miss with the locals but I love the harbour bridge and no week in Sydney would be complete without walking across it.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic landmark in Sydney and a well-known tourist attraction for visitors from all over the world. The bridge is more than just a beautiful landmark as thousands of visitors flock to the...

Also be sure to catch a ferry from Circular Quay for the best views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge take in the nearby Blue Mountains, one of the best natural wonders in the whole country. Coffs Harbour (1 night)

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is another picture-perfect city landmark. Image credits: @marekpiwnicki on Unsplash. Another recognizable landmark in Sydney is the Harbour Bridge, the largest steel arch bridge in the world.

You can't leave Sydney without seeing the best views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Head to Circular Quay and stroll around this incredible part of the harbour to take in the views.

Get to know Sydney on a guided 1.5-hour excursion across the impressive Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s the perfect activity for families or couples who love to stay active.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a steel through arch bridge across Sydney Harbour that carries rail, vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian traffic between…

Despite its nickname "the coat hanger," the bridge has a fond place in all Sydneysiders' hearts. Its opening on March 19, 1932 (during…

See dawn break from the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Soak up sea air on the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk.

This bridge is super spectacular! Usually in have always looked at bridges as structures serving utilitarian purposes. however, this bridge does not only serve the purpose of transportation but also breaths a new life into this area. It adds to the vibrance and grandeur. The sight of this bridge from the flight itself made my heart full.

Spectacular as it is. Both side of the bridge have a good picnic areas. Still be able to find parking spot and walk around. Nice view both day and night. If you have a chance to visit on NYE that’d be the best. You also can get a train to north side which will cross the bridge so you can see a good view as well.

Landmark bridge. Great backdrop and photo motive. Main connection between Sydney and North Sydney. It would be a five star rating if the bicycle lane would not end in stairs on the Northern side. Fingers crossed it will happen eventually.

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7

Port Jackson Bay

Bay

Nature & Parks

Bodies of Water

Scenic harbor offering trails, picnic spots, outdoor events & views of iconic bridges & buildings.

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Home to some of the most famous and photographed landmarks in the city, it is well worth taking a sightseeing cruise around Sydney Harbour. Besides the iconic bridge and opera house, it is lined by sparkling skyscrapers and stunning nature spots with enticing attractions, photos and views wherever you look. Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful natural harbors in the world, it impressively has 150 miles of scenic shoreline to explore with beaches, coves, gardens and parks.

A natural harbor of Sydney, Port Jackson comprises the waters of Sydney Harbour, Middle Harbour, North Harbour and the Lane Cove and Parramatta Rivers. Within its vast boundaries it encapsulates the Sydney Harbor Sea Bridge, Opera House, several islands, wildlife sanctuaries, etc. Do Not Miss: Sydney Harbor Bridge, Sydney Harbor National Park, Clark Island, Shark Island, Goat Island, Fort Denison, and Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

The Quay is the main transport hub of Sydney Harbour and it’s here that two of Australia’s most famous landmarks reside; the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Wander around the Quay and take your “I was here” photo in front of these famous structures and feel the pulse of the city. There’s probably no other pace that will jolt you awake from your jet lag and have you saying to yourself “hey, I’m in Australia!

Sydney Harbour is one of the city’s most popular attractions and is among the world’s most beautiful natural harbours. The harbour has grown to be almost synonymous with the city, and it is easy to see why...

Fringed by Sydney Harbour National Park, this is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Catch a ferry to Taronga Zoo Wharf, & walk the trail to Bradleys Head. Watch the ferries commuting across the harbour, enjoy a picnic, & take in the breathtaking scenery. There are great harbour views from the entire walking trail to Middle Head. One of the prettiest, most scenic walks I've been on & highly recommended whilst in Sydney. Also a popular area for fishing & boating.

Port Jackson is the beautiful place, we know as Sydney Harbour and one of the most spectacular harbours in the world not only on the water but the many walks around the coastline.With its busy water traffic and iconic structures such as the bridge and the Opera House it must be seen from the water

What can I say. Sydney Harbour (Port Jackson) for me personally has and always will be the most picturesque and beautiful harbour in the world. Although I don't live in this city any longer. I am always in awe of this extremely appealing and iconic harbour. It can look so different depending upon the time of day. Or when it is seen at sunrise, sunset, rain or cloud. It never fails to show different characteristics when seen under natural and artificial lighting as well as a variety of different weather conditions. The Iconic Opera House and Sydney Harbour bridge as always are a must see if you are only visiting briefly.

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How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

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New South Wales, Australia

8

Australian Reptile Park

Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

Wildlife park

Popular zoo with many species of reptiles, free-roaming kangaroos, shows & hands-on experiences.

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It's a good place to see and know about Australian native animals. All the tasks are great giving his info about the animals. From planning your day perspective you can visit in the morning and go with each talk or other option to visit in the afternoon as all the talks repeat in the second half. You can finish everything in half a day. Better to carry food as the cafe gets busy during weekend lunch hours. There is wheelchair access everywhere and they had maintained the toilets well. Alligator and crocodile talks were the best for me. The play area for kids is good too.

This is one of the great escape spots located just around an hour drive from Sydney. The Kangaroos here are lovely and kids can have fun time feeding them. The alligators here amazing and the number of them that are maintained well in a water body with in park is amazing to watch. The tortoise that we saw was over 100 years and looks so healthy and stunning. There are variety of birds and reptiles here. A place that kids would love and a must visit spot indeed

This is one of the great escape spots located just around an hour drive from Sydney. The Kangaroos here are lovely and kids can have fun time feeding them. The alligators here amazing and the number of them that are maintained well in a water body with in park is amazing to watch. The tortoise that we saw was over 100 years and looks so healthy and stunning. There are variety of birds and reptiles here. A place that kids would love and a must visit spot indeed.

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How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

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Pacific Hwy, Somersby NSW 2250, Australia

9

The Entrance Town Centre Management

Corporate office

Sights & Landmarks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

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Very nice views and lots of fun

Nothing outstanding just another tourist town.

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46 Marine Parade, The Entrance NSW 2261, Australia

10

Hunter Valley Gardens

29 acres of picturesque gardens with walking paths, plus seasonal carnival rides & holiday events.

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While encompassing a variety of activities to keep all generations happy, the Garden displays remain the focal point of Hunter Valley Gardens, to engage visitors all year round, the calendar includes horticultural talks, festivals and signature events, such as Snow Time and our Christmas Lights Spectacular. No matter what time of the year you visit, you will find 8 kms of walking paths trailing through 14 hectares of gardens. If you love counting over 6000 trees, 600,000 shrubs and over 1 million ground cover plants, plus waterfalls, statues, murals you will be truly fascinated.

Hunter Valley Gardens is a popular choice for weddings in this incredible wine region, offering an all-in-one location for your ceremony, reception, and photos. Whether you choose to share your vows in the beautiful air-conditioned chapel or one of the ten themed gardens, you’ll be blown away by the magical surroundings of Hunter Valley Gardens. Following your ceremony, opt to host your reception in the stunning Garden Marquee or the dreamy Garden Terrace.

The Hunter Valley Gardens is a beautiful backdrop to what will surely be an idyllic family day out. Take the Gardens Train around the site to soak up the perfectly manicured gardens. With amazing seasonal activities from the Easter egg hunt to Snow Time in the Garden and even the Christmas Lights Spectacular, as well as permanent fixtures such as the fairground rides and fairytale gardens, this is the perfect family destination in the Hunter Valley.

Hunter Valley Gardens provides everything you’ll need to plan the perfect wedding. There are 10 themed gardens available for your ceremony, as well as numerous photographic spots and a variety of private wedding reception spaces. Hunter Valley Gardens exemplifies natural beauty while striving to make your wedding day absolutely flawless.

Designed with children in mind, The Hunter Valley Gardens is a fun two or three hours for the whole family. The garden’s do some great school holiday exhibits including their Spring Holiday display, Mega Creatures, running until October 14. Soon the Christmas lights display will be live.

The Gardens are a place for the appreciation of nature and peaceful reflection…but they are also a place for families and fun. Our unique events like Snow Time and our Christmas Lights Spectacular bring generations together for a fun day out and feature our beautiful custom-built rides.

Hunter Valley Safaris can arrange an array of packages to suit your needs. These include winery tours, horse riding,...More. Pokolbin | Hunter Valley | NSW | Tours | find |

Wondering if there are other things to do in Hunter Valley other than wine tours?. The Hunter Valley Gardens has a lot of themed parks for you to pose in for the Gram!. This 14-hectare garden is a wonderland for nature lovers for a relaxing stroll along its lawns.

This is probably the most popular of all Hunter Valley activities. It’s one place you can’t look past when it comes to your stay in the Hunter Valley. There is always something going on at the gardens, and we usually time our trips around these events.

The Hunter Valley Gardens is a vast landscaped park with 10 feature gardens spread out over 25 acres. Take a soccer ball for a kick around, or simply let the kids run free. In school holidays the Gardens have extended opening hours.

Hang out at Hunter Valley Gardens, one of the most popular parks located 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from central Pokolbin. If you like Hunter Valley Gardens, you'll love Bimbadeen Lookout and Carmichael Park, both just a short drive away.

Spend a relaxing morning or afternoon walking and playing, or have a leisurely lunch, in these family-friendly gardens. Hunter Valley Gardens

This is definitely a place of wonder. If you are a nature lover then you will enjoy the beauty of all the different plants in any season. But that can be hard with kids, right? Not here! The special events that run in the school holidays keep kids occupied with fascinating things to ignite their sense of wonder, but it is in the lush surrounds of nature that everyone is able to enjoy together. We had a kids meal and milkshake at the Cafe next to entrance and it was surprisingly good. The rides were fun but the Ferris wheel was unfortunately out of order - not ideal for the school holidays 🥺 hopefully it will be back up and running before our next visit. As busy as it was (being Easter Sunday w/ egg hunts), there were still areas out of the way that were quiet and almost secluded still. Great stretches of grass for picnicking were easy to find too. I would highly recommend the Hunter Valley Gardens to anyone of any age. Just be ready for a fair amount of walking 😉

Went here to see the Christmas lights display...was not expecting a display of nightmares. Some of the displays and statues are terrifying. I believe it was worse when the sun was still out, parts seems liked an abandoned amusement park. The biggest issue, pay $32 per adult and was not expecting large sections of the gardens to be fenced off. I was hoping to visit other parts of the garden for the amount paid. Also had rides (although more for children), but that was another cost on top. I understand there is work to the garden and lights, but this cost is a bit rich for what you get. 2 adults = $64 and can stroll around what is available within 20 minutes. Would feel this price is more justified if the entire garden was open or $20 per person (no more) for just the lights. Yes, when it is dark, there are no other lights around the other areas, but perhaps having it open for the last hours of daylight during the evening session would be practical. Overall, lights are generally great when it is dark. Some displays are...disturbing. Overpriced for what you get.

Simply amazing.we have bought night light ticket s.which stars from 5:30 pm to 10 pm.as it is summer we can enjoy both day time and night time lighting spectacular. Kids thoroughly enjoyed the ride .The story book garden , fairytale garden, Alice in wonderland mad hatter Tea party, travel around the world miniature, food court etc.we buy ride ticket using dine and discover voucher. Enough parking.my family loved everything about the garden just its a little bit pricey.

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2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia

11

Peterson House - Hunter Valley Winery

Winery

Food & Drink

Function room facility

Wedding venue

Wine cellar

Wineries & Vineyards

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Life’s Flat Without Bubbles… So be sure to make a stop at the picturesque Peterson House property, home to the largest selection of sparkling wines in the region.​. After you have indulged in their delicious bubbles, head on over to their award-winning Restaurant Cuvee. Where you can sample fresh, seasonal produce in the a la carte restaurant, or choose a more casual dining experience with the Weekend Oyster Bar.

Catering to intimate weddings of up to 140 guests, Peterson House is an iconic Hunter Valley wedding venue boasting a stunning sandstone chapel, an elegant vineyard marquee, and the award-winning Restaurant Cuvée. Peterson House offers a magical setting for your wedding celebrations, surrounded by endless rows of lush vines, charming cottage gardens, and a picturesque pond with a jetty.

For the champagne lovers amongst you, Peterson House’s sparkling wine is as close as you’ll get in Australia. It is THE sparkling wine house with a huge selection of local white and RED sparkling wines. I didn’t even know that red sparkling wine existed until I came here but it’s way better than you’d think!

A beautiful cellar door overlooking the winery’s lake, Peterson’s is always a popular spot. The sparkling wine selection here is amazing and we always finish off a visit to the Hunter with a quick tasting and a box of six.Good for: bubbles. Their sparkling rosé and sparkling Shiraz are a lot of fun.

Peterson House was born from the vision of Ian Peterson, who, in his early years felt it necessary to celebrate each grand child’s birth with a special wine. Our cellar door offers an unforgettable experience, with our bubbly staff there to help you choose your favourite sparkling wine.

Cnr Broke Rd & Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin 02 4998 7881 At the very gateway of the Hunter Wine Region is Peterson House where you can taste the best sparkling wines and pair them with the freshest of oysters then stay on for the full a la carte menu using regional produce.

Peterson House Hot Air Balloon (Sunrise Flight) There’s probably no better way to see the vast vineyards than from a hot air balloon. Our sunrise flight booked with Balloon Aloft may just have been one of the most memorable experiences on the trip.

Peterson House has had some massive improvement to it over the last couple of years. They have changed from a restaurant that occasionally did weddings, to a proper wedding venue. And they are doing things really really well.

Here at Peterson House we specialise in Premium Sparkling Wines of many styles and varieties to suit everyone. We currently produce in excess of 20 sparkling wines, with ...

Restaurant Cuvee is open for Breakfast & Lunch 7 days a week. Our breakfast specialty is our Bubbly Breakfast which includes a superbly cooked breakfast, chocola...

City: Pokolbin, Cnr Broke Road & Wine Country Drive Pokolbin NSW 2320. You can also reach the restaurant in a wheelchair.

We were in the area specifically looking at wedding venues and popped into the Peterson House restaurant. Delicious food, well presented and excellent service. There was abit of a wait for the main courses due to a mix-up which was acknowledged by the service team ( always a good point when restaurants own up to a mistake) and rectified by way of complimentary desserts. Thank you for a superb luncheon, and anytime we are in the neighbourhood, we'll be popping in again.

Emailed these guys night before for a Tuesday morning booking for 7 in December and they rang next day (early) to confirm booking- now that's service! Honestly did not expect a reply. Food was tasty, well cooked. Restaurant was spacious and had great views of their vineyard. Kids were given colouring sheets and pencils. Service friendly and efficient!

Amazing view, fantastic wine tasting experience, Stuart was very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend! The sparkling wine was wonderful! Wine tasting is held out on the deck, a lovely environment, relaxed and open.

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2457 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia

12

Blackbutt Nature Reserve

Nature preserve

Nature & Parks

Nature preserve featuring native wildlife, plus a playground, picnic shelters & BBQ grills.

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Blackbutt Reserve is a 182 hectare reserve in the middle of Newcastle’s suburbs which features walking trails, children’s playgrounds and tranquil picnic areas with free electric barbeques. However, its wildlife exhibits at the Carnley Avenue entrance are the main attraction as it is home to koalas, emus, wallabies, wombats and peacocks. A series of boardwalks make it easy to push a stroller and let young ones view the creatures up close in the enclosures.

Blackbutt Reserve is a beautiful nature reserve that offers natural bushland with nature trails, wildlife exhibits and children’s attractions. You can explore the exhibits, feed wildlife like emus and find out more about the local wildlife with educational talks and demonstrations. Another option to make this a memorable kids' activity in Newcastle is booking a private encounter to interact with reptiles, wombats and other wildlife.

Blackbutt Reserve is 182 hectares of natural bushland just outside the city, that offers a haven of nature trails, outdoor activities and treetop walkways, as well as the chance to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most famous wildlife. The exhibits include koalas, kangaroos, wombats and possums, as well as an array of fantastic bird life in the trees above. A great family day out.

At Blackbutt, you can participate in a reptile show and interact with some slimy and scaly friends, or witness one of the awesome feeding demonstrations including Wombat feast, bird brunch, nocturnal nourish, and koala dining. Kids can also feed emus by hand, complete the activity pack, or play at the playground suitable for 6-10-year-olds with interactive musical features. More information here.

At Blackbutt Nature Reserve, you can participate in a reptile show and interact with some slimy and scaly friends, or witness one of the awesome feeding demonstrations including Wombat feast, bird brunch, nocturnal nourish, and koala dining. Kids can also feed emus by hand, complete the activity pack, or play at the playground suitable for six to 10 year-olds with interactive musical features.

Home to all kinds of amazing animals and interesting wildlife exhibits, the ever-popular Blackbutt Reserve can be found fifteen minutes’ drive southwest of the center. As well as seeing classic Australian critters up close, there are also playgrounds, picnic areas and bushwalking trails on offer. Since the 1960s, the reserve and its residents have delighted locals and tourists alike.

When you want to spend some time in nature, there is no better place to visit than the Blackbutt Reserve in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. This nature reserve is home to several different kinds of animals, including echidnas, wombats, and koalas. Visitors are also invited to enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna that can be found throughout the reserve.

This 182-hectare oasis is the perfect spot for a picnic and is a quick 10-minute drive from the city centre. The playground is awesome and the peaceful pond and symphony of birdsong provide a sublime backdrop for lunch. There are picnic tables and barbecues aplenty, but if all you feel like is a drink and an ice-cream, there’s an on-site kiosk.

Spread over 182 hectares, the Blackbutt Reserve is a protected bush land full of nature trails, native birds and animals, picnic spots and lot of interactive and educational activities. Their wildlife exhibits are particularly popular, which allows an up-close viewing of the animals like the koalas, kangaroos, emus and a few native birds.

There’s plenty of picnic spots at Blackbutt Reserve no matter if you head to Carnley Avenue entrance (Animal exhibits) or Richley Reserve (Adventure Playground) area. You’ll find picnic shelters, barbecues and lots of grassy spots to throw down a rug. Both areas feature playgrounds so that the kids can burn off energy.

This bushland paradise is home to many animals including kangaroos, wombats, reptiles and birds. Kids can get up close to the animals and even try their hand at feeding an emu if they are game. There are also interactive activity packs that can be used in the reserve before ending the day at the adventure playground.

One of Newcastle’s favourite playgrounds is located at Blackbutt Reserve (Carnley Avenue entrance). Designed for children ages 2 to 10, The Bower Bird playground will keep kids happy for hours. It features a large climbing structure, roundabout, see saw, a group swing, 2 slides and musical instruments.

If you want to enjoy a natural preserve that features native wildlife, this is the place for you. Here, prepare to find amazement in the landmark’s 182 hectares of natural bushland. You and your family can enjoy nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and more.

Located on 182 hectares of natural bushland, Blackbutt boasts restored rainforests which are home to a myriad of wildlife exhibits. The reserve also has nature trails, recreational facilities and is now home to a new $1.5m adventure playground!

Sitting in a tract of bushland with plenty of walking trails and picnic areas, this council-run reserve has enclosures of native critters: koalas, wallabies, wombats and a cacophonic chorus of native birds.

Blackbutt Nature Reserve occupies over 183 hectares of land. It is a nature preserve the features of native wildlife. It is also a great place for happy family gatherings.

We’re big native animal fans and this is a great, free park with great access to native animals. There’s paid parking but access to the park is free. We loved the emus, wombats, kangaroos and bird exhibits. The staff are friendly and there’s a great picnic and grass area with barbecues and play equipment to bring the family. We spent about an hour there and would recommend it to anyone in or visiting Newcastle.

Lovely place for kids to see and enjoy Aussie animals. Plenty to do and see, could be an all day activity, if you bring a picnic lunch or cook a bbq. Busy on weekends, but quiet during the week. There is a playground there too. The boardwalk where you can view the animals opens at 10am. It’s $13 per day for parking (or $4 per hour).

A nice place to hangout for picnic or small parties. Kids will love the place as there is a small walking trail, which goes through a lot of wildlife like owls, lizards, peacocks, birds of various kinds on display.

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Carnley Ave, Kotara NSW 2289, Australia

13

Newcastle Memorial Walk

Scenic spot

Sights & Landmarks

Scenic, commemorative pathway featuring cliffside ocean views & artwork dedicated to WWI soldiers.

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The Newcastle Memorial Walk is a relatively recent addition to Newcastle’s fine heritage attractions, but is one of its most moving. A scenic pathway, towering over the craggy cliffs of Strzelecki Headland, with a stunning view that alone is worth the walk. However it is the touching and emotional sculptures that line the path, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli, and the men and women who served, that is the main event here.

The Newcastle Memorial Walk is a commemorative walking path that celebrates the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing in Gallipolli. The path honours the sacrifices of the Australian soldiers in World War I and marks the beginning of steelmaking in the city. In total, the memorial walk was constructed using 64 tonnes of stainless steel and features steel silhouettes of soldiers and names of Hunter Valley soldiers who served.

Newcastle Memorial Walk winds its way along the top of craggy coastal cliffs, not too far south of the center. Besides offering stupendous views over the Pacific, it also teaches you a bit of local history. Built in 2015, the walkway commemorates the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli during World War I and also acts as a memorial to the soldiers who lost their lives serving overseas.

One of the best things to do in Newcastle is walk the memorial walk, which towers over Strzelecki Headland and offers stunning views. You can view the city lights and the Newcastle skyline as you stroll along the 450-metre walk, which starts at the Strzelecki Lookout and continues to the next major viewing platform. The walk is free and open 24 hours a day.

This 450 meter cliff top walkway at Bar Beach is one of the top places for a view. It features incredible 360 degree views of Newcastle from the coast to city. As it’s a tribute to Anzacs, it features history panels with information about different aspects of the conflict as well as listing the geographic place names of various conflicts.

Beginning your walk at the top of the Strzelecki Lookout, the ANZAC Memorial Walk is arguably Newcastle’s most visited site by both local’s and visitors alike. The 450-metre long walk was opened in 2015 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli in 1915 and the commencement of steel making in Newcastle.

Go for a walk along the Anzac Memorial Walk to spot coal ships and dolphins. This 450 meter cliff top walkway at Bar Beach is one of the top places for a view. It features incredible 360 degree views of Newcastle from the coast to city.

Stretching from the commanding lighthouse at Nobbys Headland to the coastal wilderness of Glenrock Reserve and the early coal workings at Burwood Beach, Newcastle's Bathers. Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia

Nice view from the elevated path. Spectacular view of the sea, beach, city. If you get a chance check the rain approaching over the sea.

Great scenic walk high up along the cliff. Park at the top can be limited. If you can walk up, plenty of carparka by the beach side

Park your car here, you can walk on both sides, one side is the city view and the other is the sea view, you must come here to enjoy this view, you can walk up to the other end to see the sea. Great place to take pictures for your girl. It is very easy to park here, there is a small parking lot and there are many places on the road.

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24 Memorial Dr, The Hill NSW 2300, Australia

14

Gan Gan Lookout

Vista point

Sights & Landmarks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

Accessible by car, this prominent viewpoint offers expansive views of Nelson Bay & beyond.

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Gan Gan lookout point is awesome. You can see so much of the bay from here. Definitely worth checking out. Only about 10mins from Nelson Bay

Convenient lookout spot where your car takes you right to the lookout point with the views about 10 meters from where you park. 2 lookout points when you get there to view from. 📷

Nice lookout for getting a good view of most of Port Stephens, but something we'll probably skip next time. We went there on an Easter Weekend and parking was just too problematic. I hope there would be like an overflow parking before the steep and narrow parts of the drive uphill. Just to give an option to those who are willing to go for a longer walk.

4.5(979)

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Lily Hill Rd, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

15

Tomaree Head

Peninsula

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

Peninsula with sandy beaches & hiking trails up bush-clad mountains for sweeping ocean views.

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About 1 km of very scenic vegetation, elevated walk away. Moderate ability. Some climbing up the stairs. The views were awesome. You can see many bays and coves from the summit. Definitely worth a visit when you’re in this area.

The Tomaree Coast track offers a great days hiking along this beautiful coastline! So much to see along the way.

Well it's quite a walk up the hill but I took some water and got up to the top and wow what have you if you make the trip up the mountain it is well worth it lot of spots it's quite easy the pathway is a lot better than what it used to be they spend a bit of time fixing up the path I do recommend going up the hill if you have the time the views are excellent from mwh

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Shoal Bay NSW 2315, Australia

16

Tacking Point Lighthouse

Lighthouse

Sights & Landmarks

Built in 1879, this white cement lighthouse with a keeper's cottage sits on a rocky headland.

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Australia’s 13th-oldest lighthouse, Tacking Point Lighthouse was built in 1879 after more than 20 ships were wrecked on the coast around Port Macquarie. Perched on a high rocky headland where the ocean meets the rainforest, the lighthouse is one of a series of small lighthouses designed by the New South Wales (NSW) government architect, James Barnet. Just 8km (5mi) south of the town centre, the headland is an important site of cultural significance for the Birpai people, who have lived in the area for tens of thousands of years.

Complete with a garden, barbecue facilities and a terrace, Twin Palms Holiday House at Lighthouse is situated in Port Macquarie, 7 km from Port Macquarie Marina and 9 km from Port Macquarie Regional Stadium. The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.6 km from Lighthouse Beach, and guests benefit from private parking available on site and free WiFi. The holiday home features 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with garden views.

One of the oldest lighthouses in Australia, Tacking Point Lighthouse is a historic treasure of Port Macquarie. Located eight kilometres south of Port Macquarie, the lighthouse crowns a high hilltop at the end of a nine-kilometre coastal trail. Named by explorer Matthew Flinders after his early 19th-century circumnavigation around Australia, the lighthouse was built to address the problem of shipwrecks in the area at the time.

The southern trailhead for the Coastal Walk is a stirring promontory capped by a whitewashed lighthouse. Tacking Point Lighthouse has been here since 1879, placing it just outside Australia’s top ten oldest lighthouses. Tacking Point, the landform, was named by famed navigator and cartographer Matthew Flinders on his 1802-03 circumnavigation of Australia.

While you’re in Port Macquarie, you can visit the Tacking Point Lighthouse, which was built in 1879. This historical landmark was designed by colonial architect James Barnet, and today is the thirteenth-oldest lighthouse in Australia. Visitors are not allowed to go inside, but it provides a wonderful view of the coast.

Tacking Point Lighthouse is Port Macquarie’s most iconic attraction. Built in 1879, it’s the thirteenth-oldest lighthouse in Australia, and has hosted its fair share of photoshoots across the years. The lighthouse itself is interesting, but you’re mostly coming here for the sweeping ocean views.

Built in 1879 on a rocky outcrop, this spot is perfect for some great photos of the coastline. The Lighthouse is on along The Coastal Walk, so if you need to burn off some energy why not walk a part of this beautiful walk. Click here to read more.

Tacking Point Lighthouse was built in 1879 and offers nice views down over Lighthouse Beach which stretches 7km. The lighthouse is incredibly picturesque and quite unique in it’s features. It is also the thirteenth oldest lighthouse in Australia.

Facilities: Parking , Wifi , Food

Great spot for overnight parking/camping on car, waking up to see the sunrise straightaway. Nice view for hiking/exercises. Saw lots of people surfing near the beach. Nice Milky Way viewing at night, no light pollution. Good view and landscape for both scenic and portrait photography shots. Lots of birds flying around for spotting.

The lighthouse is beautifully kept, startling white and on a magnificent sight with views for miles. It was well worth the walk up there and they now have seats and a great lookout platform hanging over the cliff (I wasn't crazy enough to lean over but my friends did.)

Amazing views great for a simple drive round or you can hop out and wonder around, their is even a walk down to lighthouse beach (steep with stairs). Just be aware it can get busy with cars and parking can be tricky if lots of people are there.

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Lighthouse Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia

17

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre

Nature & Parks

Tourist information center

Waterfront park offering an elevated rainforest walkway, with guided tours & a cafe.

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One of the largest surviving rainforest reserves in New South Wales is little more than five kilometres from Port Macquarie’s CBD. The headline attraction here is a 1.3-kilometre raised boardwalk, leading you through a spectacular, untouched tract of subtropical rainforest. Inside, you can find out all you need to know about the rainforest’s delicate ecology, as well as its importance in local Aboriginal culture.

A visit to the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre in Port Macquarie is a great way to get a real feel for this area’s rainforest. Located near the town’s beachfront, this rainforest preserve is home to an elevated boardwalk that allows visitors to walk through the rainforest. A boardwalk through the rainforest connects the visitors to the rainforest’s beauty and the information center also offers a coffee shop and cafe.

It is free to access the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre where you can learn about the Aboriginal culture and rainforest, as well as see exhibitions by local artists. If you want to walk along the 1.3km Rainforest Boardwalk it will cost $9 for adults. A guided tour is included in the price or you can walk along the boardwalk alone if you wish.

It’s a national park – but with a whole lot more interactivity than normal. Sea Acres takes the tried and tested formula of seaside bushwalks and marries it with eco-displays, boardwalks, and on-site cultural centres and cafés. If you want a bunch of easy hikes through gorgeous rainforest, this one is for you.

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre is the ideal place to begin your fascinating journey through Sea Acres National Park, near Port Macquarie. Walk the Rainforest Boardwalk, look through the exhibitions on display or maybe go on a bush tucker tour. Whatever you choose, it is really a beautiful escape.

I really enjoyed coming to the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre. Easy access for parking and viewing the Centre, as well as the boardwalk. Lots of interesting, educational plaques throughout. Great to get a different view from the canopy walk. Just disappointed we arrived too late for the guided tour. Would definitely go back.

Saw a powerful owl! Interesting Guides along the walk who were happy to share their wealth of knowledge. Gift shop has a lovely selection of various priced gifts (for others or self!). Cafe was nice, lovely way to spend a morning.

Easy walk and refreshing air with a few wild animals to spot, nice but average view of rainforest. Very short route which is a bit overpriced, they even charge $1 for one paper map after paying for tickets already. Still recommend to have a walk here, but the pricing can be fixed better.

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159 Pacific Dr, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia

18

Koala Hospital

Wildlife rescue service

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

Small, indoor-outdoor koala rehabilitation center with a gift shop, open to the public for tours.

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Established in 1973, Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the treatment and rehabilitation of sick and injured koalas, as well as research into the plights of these much-loved animals. Located in the grounds of the historic Roto House, you can visit the Koala Hospital to learn about koalas and see these threatened animals up close and personal. If you want to help further, you can also sponsor wild koalas through the Koala Hospital’s adoption program.

Sadly, large numbers of Australia’s iconic marsupials are injured each year through bushfire, road collisions and dog attacks. And that’s before we come to the 2019-2020 bushfires that devastated a huge portion of their habitat. Established in 1973, this nationally recognised treatment and rehabilitation centre in Port Macquarie has four permanent paid staff and provides 14 intensive care units and 33 special yards for rehabilitation.

The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is both a functional wildlife rehab centre and a tourist attraction. With free admission and plenty of Australia’s cuddliest mammals on display, this is a great place to visit if you’re taking a family holiday. There are currently nine display koalas (injured animals undergoing rehab), plus an education display, a souvenir shop, a clinic viewing area, and the Koalaseum (a rundown of koala history).

The beautifully positioned Roto House Port Macquarie is located in the eucalypt-forested patch along Lord Street, Port Macquarie, sharing the grounds of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. John Flynn, built the 11-room Roto House in 1891 to house his wife and six children. He was a local surveyor, and the weatherboard home was occupied by John Flynn’s descendants until 1979.

The koala hospital is a wonderful resource for teaching kids and families about koala conservation in the area. See koalas in their rehabilitation area and learn about threats to their survival. There is also a Koalaseum – a museum for Koalas which provides information and has interactive displays so kids can touch koala fur or look down a microscope at koala poos poo!

A visit to the Koala Rehabilitation Center is well worth the time. This indoor-outdoor facility is home to a gift shop and is open to the public. You can even tour the facility.

Don't miss going here! They get no government funding which is disgusting and don't charge entry! The organisation rely solely on the donations of people. You can sponsor a koala or simply make a donation. They have so many volunteers and they are all doing an amazing job... They're definitely Earth Angels every one of them!

This place was awesome, very educational and knowledgeable. I had a amazing time being that close to a wild rescued koala. And seeing them in there natural state. These guys do a fantastic job looking after the koalas and trying to rehabilitate and educate us all on how we can help this precious endangered species. I would highly recommend going to this attraction. Entry is free but you can donate while you are there which is a beautiful feeling.

Whenever you visit Port Macquarie you must visit the Koala Hospital, make a small donation and appreciate what the volunteer workers go through in protecting some of our endangered species. Well done to everyone involved in ensuring the koalas are well looked after. You all do a great service.

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Lord St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444, Australia

19

Trial Bay Gaol

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Remains of a 19th-century prison featuring a museum & memorial located on a scenic peninsula.

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Trial Bay Gaol is a excellent place to see a little of Australia's history. It was such a great time exploring the grounds. There was a small entry fee of $10 but this was defiantly worth it. Spend around 2 hours just walking around looking at all the different cells and sights.

Gorgeous place to visit. Allow 1 - 1.5 hours for a visit. The introductory video is 10 minutes and the grounds are a reasonable size. The toilets are clean and this is very informative. This was infinatiely better than other penal colonies and gaols I have visited (looking at you port Arthur), however Castel st Angelo in rome is probably the best gaol. I would definitely revisit.

Amazing place to enjoy. Very well maintained with facilities and wonderful crowds. The place gets busy with visitors.The surrounding area are also busy with campers. Very close to the beach. Lots of parking spaces, there's also cafe nearby.

4.6(683)

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73 Trial Bay Gaol Access Rd, Arakoon NSW 2431, Australia

20

The V Wall

Sights & Landmarks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

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A scenic walk by the water, where you'll pass the time looking at the breakwall art. Some well done, some kindergarten level, all with a story! Really cool. Lit up at night, as well. Can't wait to come back with paints n bring out my Banksy!!

Beautiful Scenic walk on Break wall. Access to Estuary and River mouth. Clean, good amenities ,with toilets close, picnic tables and perfect for little ones supervised swimming on Estuary side.

Hidden little gem on the coast with gorgeous walks. The beach is quiet with cafes and a pub close by. There are bathrooms and picnic facilities close by as well.

4.6(494)

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4.5(310)

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52 Wellington Dr, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448, Australia

21

Dorrigo National Park

National park

Nature & Parks

Parks

Large outdoor park with a boardwalk suspended over rainforest, trails to waterfalls & scenic views.

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One of the best natural tourist attraction place I have ever visited. The rain forest and the serenity within it was to die for. Didn't spend much time there however, the walks amongst the decades old trees and a ecosystem within it was amazing. Can't wait to come back here and explore the entire for the whole day. I hope it doesn't rain that time :p

A 6.6km walk with the kids (9 and 7) enjoying every step . Allow 2 to 3 hours. Spotted local wildlife, including a Lyre bird amongst Bush Turkeys, Lizards, frogs and much more bird life... The Forest itself changed throughout the walk as we moved up and down the Mountain. Highlights were of course the waterfalls, including, the Crystal Falls which you can choose to go behind for a unique view. Very easy grade but not quite wheel chair throughout (certainly not at Crystal Falls). Just long enough to be tiring.

Best place to go to for free. doesn’t require any money to go on the walks but does have a nice gift shop you can spend money. They also have a really nice cafe but is a bit on the pricy side so it’s wise to bring food and drinks. Plenty of picnic areas to cook up a feed and relax. The walks can be up to 1-2 hours but is definitely worth it for the views and waterfalls. There is a lookout with breathtaking views but I personally found quite scary. The gift shop also has a room full of beautiful artworks and documentary’s on animals living in the rainforest, very informative. Be careful on walking tracks as we had a lot of run in with leeches but didn’t discover them until after the walk. There are a few campsites nearby such as one that’s near the waterfall further down the road. Only cost $10 to stay. This waterfall you are able to swim in but is very cold. Beautiful views though. It is definitely worth the trip there, highly recommend to stay the night.

4.7(1327)

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Lyrebird Link, Dorrigo Mountain NSW 2453, Australia

22

Waterfall Way

Sights & Landmarks

Scenic Drives

Famous for its scenic views, this 106-mi. road winds through national parks & alongside waterfalls.

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New South Wales 2454, Australia

23

Dolphin Marine Conservation Park

Zoos & Aquariums

Aquariums

Waterside aquarium featuring opportunities to swim with dolphins & seals, plus shows & activities.

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The Dolphin Conservation Park is a long-running attraction in the Coffs Harbour region that has drawn countless visitors from all over the country and has a focus on interactive aquatic experiences with natures' cutest marine dwellers. with all-things-aquatic, offering the chance to get up close with a variety of some of nature’s cutest marine dwellers. Originally established in the 1970’s, the park offers safe haven for marine animals that have been injured or otherwise made incapable of returning to the wild, and now houses dozens of aquatic mammals and other varieties including Little Penguins, sea lions, green sea turtles, and most famously, its handful of Bottlenose Dolphins which serve as the star attraction.

Clijsters" In Port Stephens, I was depressed because I couldn't see dolphins in the sea. When I arrived at Coffs Harbor, I found an aquarium dedicated to watching dolphins and sea lions in the center of the town. After I left Bird Island, I drove there immediately. The aquarium is called dolphin marine magic. As the name suggests, it is a good place to watch dolphins and found on the google map. The biggest selling point here is that you can not only see whales and sea lions up close, but you can also interact with them intimately and get a dolphin kiss!

If you’ve always dreamt of getting up close and personal with dolphins, then the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. The park aims to promote the conservation of our marine environment and is home to a family of five inquisitive bottlenose dolphins who were either rescued or born at the park. Other animals that call this park home include seals, a rescued Green Sea Turtle named Plugga, a flock of Little Blue Penguins and a couple of cheeky peacocks who roam the grounds freely in the spring and summer.

A post shared by DolphinMarineConservationPark (@dolphinmarineconservation) on Jul 25, 2019 at 1:17am PDT. Located in the Mid North Coast of Coffs Harbour, the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park houses and cares for marine mammals that were injured or temporarily unfit to be released to their natural habitat. The conservation park is licensed to display animals such as Indo-Pacific Bottlenose dolphins, seals, penguins, green sea turtles, and a variety of endemic fish species.

The Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is the only zoological park in New South Wales where you can get up close to dolphins, and is an exciting and once-in-a-lifetime experience as a result. Offering incredible experiences swimming with dolphins, and a daily presentation, this is a fascinating way to experience some of nature’s most amazing creatures. There is a strong focus on conservation and changing life habits, which makes this a visit even more profound.

The Dolphin Marine Magic is a marine park in Coffs Harbour that also acts as a rescue and rehabilitation center for marine animals native to the region. It was opened in 1970 and has since then been a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The major attraction in the park is the incredible dolphin shows and swimming experiences where visitors get to interact up-close with the intelligent animals.

Dolphin Marine Magic is a rescue and rehabilitation centre, providing care for animals that have been injured or cannot be returned to the wild. The engaging crew allow visitors to get extremely up close and personal with the animals, which makes for an incredible experience. Animal lovers will jump at the opportunity to swim with or kiss the dolphins, feed a seal and watch live shows.

If you love dolphins, seals or penguins then the top of your list of things to do at Coffs Harbour must be Dolphin Marine Magic!. It offers the best chance I have experienced to get up close to these animals in a way that is as animal friendly as it can be with small crowds and without paying a fortune. Dolphin Marine Magic is a rescue and rehabilitation centre in Coffs Harbour.

About : The Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is situated at the Orlando region of Coffs Harbour City and is home to the native marine animals. The park attractions include Penguin Feeding, Dolphin Kisses, Visit at the Solitary Reefs etc. Why Should You Visit : You can visit the Dophin Marine Park to enjoy your day out with the native marine species of Australia.

Conservation and education are the focus at this unique marine park. Kids can see dolphins, penguins, turtles and seals on display or watch one of the many daily shows. Treat the kids to an animal encounter or visit penguin beach to see the Little Blue Penguins, the smallest penguins in the world!

Enjoy the magical and unforgettable experience of a Dolphin Encounter… be touched by the magic. Dolphin Marine Magic offers the opportunity to swim with dolphins for aged six and older. This magical encounter is one that the entire family can share and have amazing memories for a lifetime.

Being a coastal town, Coffs Harbour is famous for its sea life. In fact, seasonal whale and dolphin boat tours are extremely popular. However, if you would like to guarantee to see a dolphin year-round while you are in Coffs Habour then you need to head to Dolphin Marine Conservation Park.

A visit to the Coffs Harbour Dolphin Marine Conservation Centre is a must!. It is a small centre which offers an intimate, up close experience with some beautiful marine animals. You’ll see a range of fish, turtles, feed penguins and fish and receive kisses on the cheek from a dolphin.

This unique Coffs Harbour marine park offers fun, conservation, and education. Visitors will be enthralled by acrobatic dolphins, cute penguins and turtles, plus playful seals. Also, you can enjoy daily shows and even get up close and personal.

Dolphin Marine Magic is a place where life-long memories and experience happen every day. Offering incredible dolphin swimming experiences and the opportunity to swim with dolphins for all aged six and older.

We had a wonderful time with our kids. The Seal and Dolphin shows are highlights. Keep an eye out for casual seal strolls in the picnic area. Pack some brunch and enjoy relaxed time with family on sunny warm bench. Make sure to encourage your kids to touch Dolphins and feed the fishes. Have fun and stay safe.

Today was Wet wet wet !! In more ways than one…. Pricing for experiences is a bit crazy but fun for the rich I’m sure. Kids loved the park and had a great time. They pack a lot into the very small park had wheelchair accessible exhibits.

Great experience and nice marine park. Good insight into the conservation efforts of the turtles, seals and dolphins. Hands-on experiences with a number of the creatures. Great for kids and adults alike. Dolphin show is a highlight. Really good visibility at the exhibits.

4.3(1613)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.5(1311)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

65 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450, Australia

24

Forest Sky Pier

Vista point

Sights & Landmarks

Lookouts

This lookout pier is 15 m. high, extends out 21 m. & offers sweeping views of the mountains & coast.

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Nearly every city – both capital and regional – has a single outstanding lookout point, and Coffs Harbour’s answer to this is the excellent (and entirely free) Forest Sky Pier that extends out from Sealy Lookout. If you’re looking for the ultimate “been there, done that” photo of Coffs Harbour, the view from Forest Sky Pier ranks up there as a must-do for first-time visitors to the Coffs region. Part of the Orara East State Forest, the lookout point is just a short drive from central Coffs Harbour and offers an outstanding aspect overlooking the city of Coffs Harbour and extending outwards to the open ocean.

Do yourself a favour and take the 6km drive off the Pacific Highway (north of Coffs Harbour) through the banana plantations and into the lush green Orara East State Forest. Sealy Lookout is 310m above Coffs Harbour and the view is spectacular, giving you great perspective of the area, including the Solitary Islands Marine Park; on a clear day you can see 100km to the south. The Sky Pier itself is an impressive structure, it projects 21.6m from the original lookout.

The Coffs Coast is the only region in New South Wales where the mountains of the Great Dividing Range meet the Pacific Ocean. This makes for some unforgettable scenery, as you’ll discover at the Sealy Lookout, a short drive up from Coffs Harbour through banana plantations. Here in the Orara East State Forest the Sky Pier is set atop an escarpment, 310 metres above the coast and projecting more than 20 metres over the edge of the lookout.

The award-winning Forest Sky Pier offers visitors a unique view of the Coffs coast and the mountains offering a great opportunity to take photographs of the picturesque landscape. It is located within the Bruxner Park Flora Reserve in the vast Orara East State Forest. The pier projects 21.6 meters beyond the Sealy Lookout at a height of 310 meters above sea level.

We began our exploration of Coffs Harbour things to do at the point where I think all adventures should start in this area – at the Sealy Lookout and Forest Sky Pier. The view from the Forest Sky Pier. Within a flora reserve in the Orara East State Forest, you can find this overhanging “pier” with amazing views over the whole Coffs Harbour area.

A post shared by Nathalie Kafurt (@ennekapeapeon) on Jul 19, 2019 at 6:12am PDT. If you want to get the breathtaking view of Coffs Harbour absolutely for free, then drive up to the Forest Sky Pier!. Located at Sealy Lookout in Bruxner Park Flora Reserve, the architectural site offers a spectacular panorama of the city’s rainforest and canopy.

Inside of Bruxner Park Flora Reserve you will find one of the best places to go. It’s just a short drive from Coffs Harbour but the trip will be well worth the effort and time spent. If you think the drive up the mountain to Sealy Lookout, with its windy road and sleepy banana plantations, was spectacular, you haven’t seen anything yet.

Located in the Orana East State Forest is a spectacular skywalk, jutting out more than 20m from the edge and 300m above Coffs Harbour. The state forest is home to a number of walking tracks and lookouts, so it is easy to spend a day here exploring. Find out more about Orana East State Forest and the Sky Pier here.

About : The Forest Sky Pier is situated in the Bruxner Park Flora Reserve and is famous for standing about 15 meters above the forest floor. It gives a beautiful panoramic view of the beautiful hills and the mountains to the visitor. Why Should You Visit : Love Heights?

Wind your way through banana plantations on the 10-minute drive from Coffs Harbour to Sealy Lookout in the Orara East State Forest. A short cantilevered walkway juts out 15m above the forest with views sweeping...

Drive to Sealy Lookout for incredible views over the city and then grab a beer and toast to the first night of your Australian road trip! Byron Bay (2 nights)

明慈"This lookout pier is 15 m. high, extends out 21 m. & offers sweeping views of the mountains & coast. great place and gethering with friend!

I had an awesome visit to Sealy Lookout. It has quickly become one of my favorites places. It is worth the drive. Has an amazing little Cafe. The views are surrounding rainforest enough to lift ones spirits and set one up for an awesome day or night. Whichever the case may be. I would like to add there is no camping and the gates are locked at 5 pm

Took us 3 attempts before we got to the pier without it being head and shoulders in the clouds, but the view was worth the repeat visits. The area is well cared for and the small cafe and covered seating areas make it a good picnic spot. The car park is not large, but adequate as most people only stay long enough to take a selfie. There is a short forest walk out the back of the car park. Well worth the visit, but checkout the weather before heading up. There are a couple of drop toilets.

Worth the visit. Very solemn and beautiful look out. The mountain is a bit stif to drive but the road is nicely done enough to let 2 cars pass by. There’s a small cafe on top where you can have some coffee and cookies for the kids. The staffs are all so beautiful and kind😊 Highly suggest this place to pass by if you have time. The bananas and avocados are cheap too!🥑🍌🥳🥳🥳

4.6(1421)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.5(854)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

Coffs Harbour NSW 2450, Australia

25

The Big Banana Fun Park

Amusement park

Sights & Landmarks

Waterslides, ice skating, mini golf & laser tag are offered at this banana-themed amusement park.

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Easily the most well-known of Australia’s unusual series of “big” inanimate landmarks (avocado, guitar, prawn, et al), the Big Banana has become synonymous with everything “Coffs Harbour” since its construction back in 1964. The combination of the sheer size and conspicuousness of the landmark, as well as its location right on the highway, has led to many an impulsive roadside travel-selfie for the unaware international traveller – and is something that has become a rite of passage for Aussies making the east-coast-capitals road trip as well. Originally built in order to draw roadside traffic to a local banana stall, the Big Banana complex has since expanded significantly to include a surrounding plantation, shop, cafe, and even a hybrid amusement/water park in the modern day.

If you’ve never been to the Big Banana or haven’t visited since you were a kid, do yourself a favour and make it the first stop on your motorhome holiday. Built in 1964 as a way to encourage travellers to stop at a road-side banana stall, the Big Banana was Australia’s first ‘Big Thing’ and still manages to stop traffic today. Now boasting much more than just the giant banana, it’s also home to a water park, ice-skating rink, giant slide, mini golf course and a 650m toboggan ride overlooking the Pacific Ocean, meaning there’s plenty to see and do if you’re either young or young at heart.

The Big Banana Fun Park is the BIGGEST and BEST Fun Park on the Northern NSW coast. It's a full day of family fun for the entire family set amongst the bananas, overlooking the amazing Coffs Harbour coastline. Now boasting 6 fantastic attractions including a 600m Toboggan Track, state of the art Laser Tag arena, a brand new Water Park including 4 heart stopping thrill slides and kids aqua play area, a magnificently sculpted 36 hole Mini Golf course, a Theatre and Plantation tour, an Ice Skating rink, Gift shop, Café, Candy Kitchen and Nursery.

You know I couldn’t write a guide for Coffs Harbour without mentioning the iconic Big Banana. What started out as a gimmick to draw tourist attention to the banana plantation, the Big Banana was Australia’s first “Big Thing” when it was built in 1964, leading the way in what has become a staple of road trips all over Australia. No matter if you are just stopping in to Coffs Harbour for a couple of hours or for much longer, the Big Banana has grown into a tourist destination in its own right and is well worth a visit.

zhweiei"Daxiang [Scenery] The banana is in Coffs Harbour. This is a must pass from Sydney to the Gold Coast. Coffs Harbour is also a beautiful seaside town. Because it is rich in bananas, this rhubarb banana has become a local symbol. Many people will take photos of this big banana when they come here. This is also a theme park. There is also a Dutch village not far from here, which is actually a shop selling Dutch clogs. The house has a Dutch style, and there are some mini Dutch buildings in the backyard

Dubbed the biggest and best fun park on the Northern NSW coast, it would be unthinkable to head to Coffs Harbour and not visit the Big Banana Fun Park. Set amongst the banana trees overlooking the coast, the fun doesn’t stop; complete with rides, games and adventure aplenty. Don’t miss the opportunity to slide down the biggest slide in the country, fully immerse yourself in the 4D Ride Simulator, and of course, there’s the Water Park which is an experience in itself.

The Big Banana Fun Park is the biggest water park in Sydney and the Gold Coast and it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Coffs Harbour. Be sure not to miss out on riding their world-class and thrilling slides that can stand as tall as four stories!. The water park offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy, from their wide range of attractions like the six-lane giant slide, state-of-the-art laser tag arena, and the kids aqua-play area.

The history of Coffs Harbour is rooted in bananas, as the first major industry from the region, and this fun, quirky and ever-so kitsch monument and adventure park is a celebration of this. The first of the craze of ‘Big Things’ in Australia, the Big Banana is an iconic Coffs landmark, and comes with rides, attractions, a waterpark, plantation tours, and the brilliantly-named World of Bananas Experience. A must for any visitor.

Aussie’s love their ‘BIG’ things and therefore you cannot miss The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour!. It is located roadside heading north on the Pacific Highway, not only can you not miss it visually, but you have also got to go in and have a look around. There is so much to do there, so much flexibility in buying tickets for the different attractions, which is fantastic for families travelling on a budget!

The Big Banana is an amusement park in Coffs Harbour built in 1964 and a popular family attraction among locals and tourists alike. Set within a banana plantation, the park features a large artificial walk-through banana which was among the first of Australia’s ‘Big Things’. Other attractions include an ice skating rink, a toboggan ride, and a water park.

If there is one must visit attraction in Coffs Harbour then this is it – the Big Banana!. This was the one Coffs Harbour attraction that I knew for many years before visiting. It is definitely worth a visit, if only to have your photo taken with the banana and to have a chocolate coated, frozen banana – soooooo good!

The largest amusement park between Sydney and the Gold Coast is right here in Coffs Harbour. The Big Banana Fun Park has been in business since 1964, taking shape on a banana plantation. The landmark, walk-through Big Banana may have been the first of the monumental “Big Things” that are dotted around Australia.

Visiting the iconic Big Banana is a must for visitors of all ages to the Coff’s Coast. The Big Banana has many school holiday activities, including rides, water slides, mini golf, exciting shops and small craft businesses onsite. Plus, don’t forget the photo opportunities at the big banana itself!

The Big Banana now boasts The Banana Slip Water Park (Australia’s first 3 story high inflatable waterslide – the biggest in the world), Area 351 Laser Tag Arena, Ice Skating Rink, Wild Toboggan Ride, “The World of Bananas” multimedia theatre experience, plantation.

The Big Banana Fun Park has a brand new giant slide named The Racer. In addition, it has four huge thrill slides, two inflatable slides and a kids water park. Ride the famous Toboggan Ride overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

About : The Big Banana Fun Park is one of the biggest park in the North NSW Coast. It is special because it is completely dedicated to Bananas. It has many rides and attractions completely dedicated to Banana theme.

Built in 1964, the Big Banana started the craze for ‘Big Things’ in Australia. Admission is free, with charges for associated attractions, such as ice skating, toboggan rides, minigolf, the waterpark, plantation...

No trip to Coffs Harbour is complete without visiting The Big Banana. One of Australia’s original ‘big’ icons, this destination has something for everyone. There are rides, slides and of course, bananas!

Great place for family with little kids. It hasn’t change much since our last visit in 2018. Easy to walk around and if you are able to buy the unlimited pass, you will be able to try everything. The 4D theatre was amazing. The big slice was empty, it’s a shame because it was fun. The owners should consider an automatic escalator. My kids couldn’t go up to the top and carry their own mat. The mat is super heavy, I have two carry three mats all the way to the top and I was able to do it two times. I’m a fit person, but it was too much.

What a great experience for the family. All the rides were functioning well and the staff were all friendly and super helpful. My kids enjoyed every moment and as parents, it was amazing to see that even during this challenging COVID19 situation, kids having a good time with huge smiles on their faces! Highly recommend The Big Banana Fun Park!

Nice place for family holidays.What a great experience for the family. All the rides were functioning well and the staff were all friendly and super helpful. We enjoyed every moment and it was amazing to see that even during this challenging COVID19 situation, kids having a good time with huge smiles on their faces!There holidays were paid off after visiting that place.Highly recommend The Big Banana Fun Park! Make sure don't book toboggan, if weather will be rainy otherwise it was fun....

4.2(5174)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.0(1758)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

351 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450, Australia

26

The Big Prawn

Sights & Landmarks

Landmark

Built in 1989, this beloved, 9m-high prawn sculpture is a popular spot for roadside selfies.

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Ballina your everything and more! Visiting the big prawn was a great conversation starter for my little kids! What a town so much to do and see we will be back!

Now I've seen it The Big Prawn ... looks so out of place , where this Ballina tourist attraction , still stands From what I've learnt from a local ... the Big Prawn use to have a Tourist Information building on sight Now only the Big Prawn stands & the adjacent land is a Bunnings Hardware store

No adventure to Northern NSW is complete without a family photo at the giant prawn. Also the site of a geocache.

4.2(488)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.0(261)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

507 River St, West Ballina NSW 2478, Australia

27

The Farm Byron Bay

Working farm, plant nursery & sustainable market garden with tours, an onsite restaurant & a bakery.

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A community of growers and producers share this photogenic, 32-hectare green oasis just outside Byron, along with the Three Blue Ducks restaurant, a produce store, a bakery, an ice-creamery and a florist. The passionate dedication to traditional and sustainable practices here is both a working ethos and an educational mission. Pick up a self-guided-tour map and roam the veggie plots and cattle-and-pig-dotted fields. One-hour guided tours run at 9am Friday to Sunday during summer, and horseback tours happen at 7am Saturdays ($65).

Lovely place to visit. Enjoy a short walk around & see all the animals, have some fresh macadamian nuts under the trees. Enjoy meal at the three ducks cafe or get takeaway & enjoy it under the trees. Mistake, many people did: wearing white shoes, this is after all a farm, so prepare to get mud on your shoes. Will definitely go back.

Nice, rustic experience. Just be aware the Cafe and restaurant areas are separate operations so if you think you can enjoy a coffee in the restaurant area you can't. Coffee is only on front deck and inside main serving area. It's a good family venue with additional areas for kids to run around. Highly recommended.

Great idea and nice atmosphere for a cafe/restaurant. Good quality to price was much less than my expectation but overall experience would compensate for that. Consider booking in advance. Could be very crowded at times. Heads up for the holiday surcharge. Definitely enjoy the walk and explore around, otherwise, it might not be worth it as a quick bite option!

4.4(3511)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.0(1292)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

11 Ewingsdale Rd, Ewingsdale NSW 2481, Australia

28

Cape Byron Walking Track

Outdoor Activities

Hiking Trails

Popular hiking loop with ocean views, a lighthouse, wildlife sightings & picnic spots.

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Absolutely fabulous walk, cannot more heartedly recommend! Please walk from the start all the way around to the lighthouse, such a beautiful landscape. Extra benefit is you walk past the most eastern point in Australia. Strong recommend from me!

Amazing views, medium walk but even our youngest made the walk. Fully recommend parking at the bottom near Clarkes Beach head left and around Palm Beach into Wategos Beach then up the headland to amazing panoramic views East to West before heading to the lighthouse. Walk back through the conservation area for another unique view, shade and steps back down to the car park again.

Well maintained.. good place to workout for free if you are living nearby. Best view as well..

4.8(534)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.5(1697)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

130 Lighthouse Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia

29

Cape Byron Lighthouse Cafe

affordable

Cafe

Sights & Landmarks

Coffee shop

Lighthouses

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Then reward yourself at the top with some ice cream from this cute café, which has a large terrace with sweeping views of the bay. Cape Byron Lighthouse Cafe sells gelato from In the Pink, which you can enjoy while looking out for dolphins and whales below. If you’re ravenous from the hike, the café also has a menu of croissants, toasties, cakes and a range of drinks.

Cape Byron Lighthouse is probably the most famous photo spot in Byron Bay. Not only is this where you will find Australia’s most easterly point, but its picturesque vantage point makes it a great spot to watch both the sunrise and sunset, whilst also dolphin spotting!. TOP TIP – Cape Byron Lighthouse is a lot busier on the weekend, so if you can I would come midweek.

The café sits atop a cliff beside the Byron Bay Lighthouse overlooking the magnificent Byron Bay coast, a great stop after a long hike. For a touristy spot, the café serves surprisingly good coffee. They also have a variety of food items and sweets as you sip and enjoy the sweeping views of the sea.

We have great organic coffee, plus decaf coffee, chai, Tumeric Lattes and a selection of fine local teas. We sell the best ice creams in the world which are locally made each day at "In The Pink" Gelateria in Byron Bay.

Popped in for a quick snack and beverage when viewing the lighthouse. Surprisingly…. Wasn’t expensive, had great food and the view is just sensational! Strong recommend from me!!!

Cape Byron Lighthouse Cafe .. is a good recovery spot .. after exploring the Cape Byron Lighthouse & the beautiful Cape Byron State Conservation Area

I love d the chicken croissant. The chicken was so juicy and yummy. The staff member was a lady with a bun, she was so lovely. The best customer service ever.

4.1(257)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

4.5(3020)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

201 Lighthouse Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia

30

Museum with a range of art exhibitions plus the art of Margaret Olley & a recreation of her studio.

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Well worth the visit, especially for the lovingly reconstruction of Margaret Olley's home/studio. The art installations are well presented and interesting. The cafe/restaurant was very good. Highly recommend.

This is an oasis. A well planned and laid out gallery with a wonderful vista over the Tweed and surrounding countryside. The cafe is great and our food and coffee well worth a decision to drive there and eat first and then visit the gallery. In such a small gallery it’s great to see such a good range of art, local or otherwise. The shop is small and well stocked with cards, ceramics, jewellery and books. All the staff were professional and very helpful. A great visit. Thank you.

I've been wanting to visit 'Margaret Olley's' home, which has been transported to the gallery, for quite a while. I had no idea that this wonderful woman was a hoarder and because of this her life was filled with many gems from flowers and statues to ewers and vases. Of course many of these things that she couldn't bare to part will be remembered forever as they became part of arrangements in her still life paintings.

4.7(929)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

5.0(514)

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

2 Mistral Rd, South Murwillumbah NSW 2484, Australia

How much does it cost to drive to Qld from Melbourne?

Road trip planner The round trip cost would be $473.13 to go from Melbourne, Australia to Brisbane, Australia and back to Melbourne, Australia again.

How many days does it take to drive from Melbourne to Gold Coast?

How long is the drive from Melbourne to the Gold Coast? The direct drive from Melbourne to the Gold Coast is 1061 mi (1707 km), and should have a drive time of 16 hrs 15 mins in normal traffic.

How much does it cost to drive from Qld to Vic?

Road trip planner The total cost of driving from Brisbane, Australia to Melbourne, Australia (one-way) is $237.14 at current gas prices.

Is it cheaper to fly than drive?

For the shortest trip, driving is more economical than flying. But for the longer cross-country trip, flying is far cheaper. And keep in mind that this only considers solo drivers. Families or friends traveling in one vehicle can save money by driving, even on longer routes.