Headlands, dunes and coastal lakes along the Coffs Coast
Overview
Coffs Coast Regional Park stretches along the Mid North Coast of New South Wales from northern Coffs Harbour to near Corindi Beach. It brings together a long run of coastal country including headlands, dune systems, coastal creeks and estuaries, with beaches and parklands threaded between nearby seaside communities.
The park covers 661 hectares and has a distinctly coastal feel from end to end. Rather than one single block of bush, it protects a chain of shoreline landscapes where open beaches, low dunes, rocky points and lake edges sit close together.
Highlights
The real character of the park comes from its variety of coastal landforms. There are broad sandy beaches, undulating dunes, rocky headlands and quieter pockets around lakes and estuaries, so the scenery shifts constantly as you move along the coast.
Some of the best outlooks are from the headlands, where long views open over the shoreline and out across Solitary Islands Marine Park. In whale season, these elevated coastal points are also among the standout natural viewing spots in the region.
Best Time to Visit
This coast can be appealing at any time of year, but the warmer months suit people who want calm beach weather and long days by the water. Winter and spring bring a different draw, with humpback whales moving along the coast from June to October and regular viewing opportunities from the headlands.
Plants and Animals
Coffs Coast Regional Park is ecologically important despite its relatively narrow coastal footprint. It protects small areas of eight threatened ecological communities, along with native plant species and habitat for threatened animals.
The park also supports the only known population of the endangered low-growing form of Zieria smithii. Birdlife is a strong feature of the coast here, and species recorded in the park include white-bellied sea eagles and yellow-tailed black cockatoos, along with frogs such as the brown-striped frog in wetter areas.
Culture and Heritage
Coffs Coast Regional Park lies within the traditional Country of the Gumbaynggirr People.
