Coastal Road Trip: Best Stops Between Newcastle and Coffs Harbour
- Apr 20
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 28
Travelling the coastline between Newcastle and Coffs Harbour offers one of the most relaxed and rewarding road trips in NSW. Whether you’re taking it slow over a few days or weaving in highlights over a weekend, this coastal route offers charming towns, nature, and memorable places to stretch your legs.
Best Stops Betweeen Newcastle and Coffs Harbour
Here’s a guide to some of the best stops between Newcastle and Coffs Harbour all ideal for travellers seeking local experiences, nature walks, great cafés, and peaceful detours.
Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest: Coastal Calm at the Mouth of the Myall River
Just under an hour from Newcastle, Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest make the perfect first stop. Visit the Singing Bridge, enjoy a coffee by the Myall River, browse the boutiques, or take a short walk to the Koala Reserve. Although you would be lucky to catch a glimpse of a Koala these days. If time allows, explore the dunes at Dark Point or stroll the long curve of Bennett’s Beach.
7 minutes from the Pacific Highway
Where to Eat in Tea Gardens and Hawkes Nest
Tillermans - French cuisine (Marine Drive)
Meme's Bakery - Cakes, pies sandwiches (Marine Drive)
Hook n Cook - Classic Fish and Chips (Marine Drive)
Two Fat Bakers - Cakes, pies, sandwiches (Myall Street)
Tea Gardens Hotel - Pub food (Marine Drive & Myall Street)
The Boatshed - Breakfast and Lunch (Marine Drive)
Thai House - Thai (Myall Street)
Mumm's on the Myall - Restaurant also takeway fish and chips kiosk (Marine Drive near the Singing Bridge)
Golden Flame - Pizza, Kebab and Burgers (Marine Drive)
Tea Gardens Accommodation
Self-contained luxury apartments with views, pool and close to cafes.
Winter specials available - prices vary depending on apartment size.
Water views, clean stunning granny flat. Highly recommended by this publisher.
Tell my beautiful friend, Trish, that Deb Carr sent you ;)
Seal Rocks: Lighthouse Views and Hidden Beaches
A detour off The Lakes Way leads to the peaceful headland village of Seal Rocks. It’s home to Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, panoramic coastal views, and a handful of quiet beaches. Great for a picnic or swim, this spot remains one of the hidden gems on the North Coast.
Where to Eat in Seal Rocks
There's not much available in Seal Rocks apart from Single Fin Coffee. Single Fin Coffee -1 Kinka Road open 7:00am to 1:00pm
Alternatively hop in the car and explore these places in the region:
Pacific Palms Bowling Club (3111 Pacific Palms): Features the Macwood Grill for lunch and dinner, plus a bar, near Seal Rocks.
Kembali Cafe (Bluey's Beach): Indonesian inspired
Blueys Italian Pizzeria and Wine Bar (Bluey's Beach): Local Italian dining options.
Blueys Cellars & Deli (Bluey's Beach): Deli and Beverages
About 30 minutes from the Pacific Highway. Bonus: Fabulous scenic drive
Seal Rocks Accommodation
Private and tranquil ideal for a couple or book next door for the family
From $424 for one night. Check for price change in peak season.
Next to the beach, stunning cabins, villas, and sites.
From $312 for two nights. Check price change in peak season.
Nabiac: Country Charm and Unexpected Finds
Further inland lies Nabiac, a small town brimming with character. It’s home to the Australian Motorcycle Museum and a great local cafe. If you love unique finds or relaxed rural vibes, Nabiac makes a refreshing change from coastal stops.
Where to Eat in Nabiac
The Greenhouse Cafe - a favourite with locals and visitors
Nabiac Hotel - affordable pub meals
The Artisan Farmer
Next to the Pacific Highway. Editor's best stop suggestion if you don't have much time.
Forster–Tuncurry: Lakes, Walks and Local Seafood
The twin towns of Forster and Tuncurry offer a mix of activity and ease. Walk the Tuncurry Rockpool, stop at the shopping centre or explore the Nine Mile Beach. Visit the village to discover cafes, gift shops and restaurants.
Central location near shops and beaches. Spacious rooms.
From $391 night but check for seasonal rates.
Beachfront stays with cabins and caravan options.
Cabins from $150 per night and subject to seasonal demand.
Where to Eat in Forster
Si Senorita - Mexican Cantina (Shop 1, Reef Apartments, Wharf Street)
Tarrt Cafe (Wharf Street)
Beach Bums (Main Beach)
Spice Monkey - Asian infused (2-6 Wharf Street)
Beach Street Seafoods (Cnr Wharf St and Head Lane)
About 25 minutes from Pacific Highway via Failford Road
Staying a bit longer in Forster? Then here's a lot more information.
Old Bar NSW – A Quiet Coastal Detour Near Taree
For a coastal stop, put Old Bar and Saltwater NSW on your itinerary. Located around four hours north of Sydney on the Mid North Coast, Old Bar is a small beach town with long beaches.
The village includes cafés, a supermarket, post office and casual dining options, making it a convenient base for a weekend or stopover.
If time permits, Saltwater National Park offers bushtracks and stunning scenery.
Accommodation in Old Bar
Fresh, light and airy, 2 bed cottage situated in the heart of Old Bar CBD.
Average $171 per night with great reviews.
Ruby's is in a stunning beachside location, with ocean views to match.
Average $431 per night and great reviews
Port Macquarie: Rainforest Walks and Riverside Energy
If you're making this a multi-day journey, Port Macquarie is an excellent overnight stop. Wander the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk, visit Ricardoes for fresh strawberries, or enjoy a sunset stroll along the breakwall. The town has a great mix of food, culture, and beaches with plenty of accommodation.
Where to Eat in Port Macquarie
The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant - 20 Park Street, Port Macquarie
Up to 15 minutes from the Pacific Highway, but be warned traffic can get heavy
Find accommodation at Port Macquarie
Recently renovated industrial unit near Flynns Beach.
Starting from $232 this varies during peak season
Tranquil home with character, white floorboards and gorgeous furniture
Starting from $379 per night depending on season
Urunga Wetlands & Boardwalk: Tranquil Stop Before Coffs
Just south of Coffs Harbour, Urunga is a peaceful place to pause. The boardwalk offers expansive views over the river and wetlands, perfect for birdwatching and a gentle leg stretch after hours in the car.
Where to Eat in Urunga
Anchors Wharf Cafe & Restaurant (4/6 Bellingen Street
Urunga, NSW)
Ocean View Hotel
Close to the Pacific Highway and about 20 minutes to Coffs
Coffs Harbour Hinterland: Rainforest, Lookouts and Giant Trees
Before you wrap up your journey, explore the Coffs Harbour Hinterland. Stop by the Butterfly House, visit Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Belligen.
Where to Eat in Coffs Harbour
The Jetty Pavilion (59/371 Harbour Drive)
Jetty Beach House (150 Jordan Esplanade)
Latitude 30 (8/1 Marina Drive)
Coffs Harbour Accommodation
An Award Winning boutique accommodation with spacious, self contained, holiday apartments.
Pricing varies on apartment choice starting at $245
Tiny house with easy access to a bustling coastal town and the peaceful charm of farm life.
Pricing starts at $299 for one night via Stayz
A road trip from Newcastle to Coffs Harbour doesn’t need to be rushed. With so many places to explore, swim, taste, and reflect, you’ll find each town and lookout along the way adds something unique to the journey.
Whether you're heading north for a long weekend or planning a full road trip adventure, these stops make the journey as memorable as the destination.