Coastbeat’s Favourite Adventure Trails on the Coffs Coast
Check out this stunning part of the world with a relaxed morning stroll, a calf-pumping bushwalk or a mountain biking expedition. Coffs Coast is surrounded by lush forests and national parks – the perfect place to get lost in nature and find your adventurous self. Here are some of Cb’s favourite trails.
Coffs Harbour
Moonee Nature Walk
This walk features coastal heath, estuary and abundant bird life with wildflowers in spring. Wade across the estuary then follow the track through the littoral rainforest to the beach. Walk along the beach or dunes until you meet a track, follow this track to the bank of Moonee Creek, then cross the estuary and return to the start. There is also a shorter walk across the bridge to the edge of the reserve.
Getting there: The Moonee Beach turn is sign-posted from the Pacific Highway and is less than 15 minutes from the heart of Coffs Harbour to the north. To begin the walk, park at Moonee Beach Reserve – past the caravan park.
Distance: approx. 5kms
Time: 4 hrs return
Grade: Medium (Low tide access only)
Look At Me Now Headland Walk
This is a short walking route with fabulous scenic views far out to sea, a lookout and beach access. You can see eastern grey kangaroos nibbling on the grass and white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys and brahminy kites soaring above the coastline. Pack a picnic lunch and blanket to sit amongst the grassy heath.
Getting there: Head north from Coffs Harbour for about 15 minutes where you’ll see the Emerald Beach exit (for those of you who have explored the Moonee Beach area, it’s just a few minutes up the highway). Heading into the village of Emerald Beach, you’ll notice Dammerel Crescent on your right before you reach the shops. Take Dammerel Crescent all the way to the end where you’ll find the car park for the walk.
Distance: 1.6 km loop
Time: 15-45 mins
Grade: Easy
Bruxner Park Flora Reserve – Orara East State Forest
Getting there: Turn west off the Pacific Highway 1km north of the Big Banana, drive through bananas and avocados to the Gap parking area. These walking tracks are only a 10-minute drive from Coffs Harbour.
Rainforest Walks: Rainforest Loop (easy) & Gumgali Track (medium)
These walking tracks lead you through the wonder of subtropical rainforest. And don’t forget the insect repellent– you’re in a rainforest and can expect mosquitoes and other insects as well as possibly leeches sometimes, particularly after rain and in Summer.
Distance: 600m – 1.6km
Time: 10 – 60 mins
Grade: Easy-Medium (varying slopes & steps)
Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout
Drive a further 2km from The Gap car park to Sealy Lookout to enjoy expansive views over Coffs Harbour with a picnic, barbecue, and toilet facilities available. An impressive new Sky Pier with viewing platform opened at Sealy Lookout in late 2011 providing awesome views over treetops.
Wheel-chair accessible
Muttonbird Island walk – Coffs Harbour Marina
This is an extraordinary spot to take a short walk and the unforgettable views will be well worth your effort. The best way to find out more about the Aboriginal stories of Muttonbird is on an award-winning guided Discovery tour conducted by local Gumbaynggirr rangers.
Getting there: Follow Harbour Drive, then take Marina Drive to the waterfront and marina.
Distance: 1.2 km loop
Time: 20-45mins
Grade: Medium (well-maintained pathways, some steep slopes)
