7 hidden-gem villages and towns to explore on the Coffs Coast

Untapped foodie experiences and magical hinterland hamlets breathe new life into holidaying on NSW’s Coffs Coast.

There’s nothing undiscovered about beach life on the Coffs Coast, a magnet for surf-seeking holidaymakers. But beyond the bustle of Coffs Harbour lies a huddle of hinterland townships, hipster-cool craft breweries and distilleries, deeply inspired dining and an abundance of natural splendour. Add our seven favourite locales into your NSW mid-north coast itinerary for unexpected delights away from the beaten track.

1. Woolgoolga

You might know it better as Woopi for reasons spanning its traditional custodian roots and historical mispronunciation. Woolgoolga, located 20 minutes’ north of Coffs Harbour, is a thriving community offering scenic trails, water activities and handcrafted sips.

Try award-winning gin and vodka at Critters Distillery. (Image: Destination NSW)

Mark our words, this town won’t be hidden for long, particularly when news of its industrial precinct off the Pacific Highway catches on. Go warehouse wandering to find Critters Distillery’s award-winning gin and vodka, Mogul Beer for a soon-to-open cellar door and the jewel in the region’s craft crown, Woolgoolga Brewing Co. for live music and great vibes throughout its giant shed and spacious sloping lawn.

Gather at the shed or the seats that spill out onto the lawn at Woolgoolga Brewing Co.

Explorers will love the Falls Walking Track from Woolgoolga Creek picnic area and the Woolgoolga Coastal Loop, plus there’s lovely village life along Beach Street, around the corner from Seaview Tavern, one of the best pubs within the Coffs Coast.

Lake Woolgoolga flows to the creek picnic area; one of many picturesque spots to explore. (Image: Getty/ John Carnemolla)

2. Glenreagh

The historical town of Glenreagh along the Orara Valley Tourist Trail, which clusters several Hinterland villages that hug the Orara River, is a must-visit.

Located just off Orara Way at the Trail’s northern end near Grafton, it’s home to one of Australia’s most underrated Big Things — The Golden Dog Hotel’s Big Golden Dog. Guarding the pub at four metres tall and six metres long, the giant pup was constructed by one of the team who delivered the Big Banana at Coffs Harbour.

The Golden Dog Hotel’s Big Golden Dog guards the pub.

Grab a selfie before popping across the road to Glenreagh Bakery where pastry gods whip up buttery, blistery bliss from Tuesday to Saturday. Pudgy focaccia topped with roasted veg and herbs, crunchy cruffins (the muffin-croissant hybrid), Jalapeno Turkish bread and corned beef and dill pickle puffs bring big-city creativity to the humble Coffs Coast pit stop.

The humble muffin has been revamped into a cinnamon-dusted croissant and muffin hybrid.

Elsewhere, there’s the Glenreagh Memorial Museum and Post Office to transport you back in time and you can soak up the scenery on the back of a horse through the Abbotsford Park Riding Centre. Oh, and if you’re planning a winter trip, time it to Glenreagh’s Timber Festival on July 27, 2024 to catch wood chop, animal encounters, markets, live music and more.

Take the family horseback riding for a great day out.

3. Ulong

Rolling green hills, geese-freckled farm scapes and one exceptional beer garden — Ulong is another brilliant stop within the Coffs Coast and Orara Valley. You’ll need to venture just off Orara Way to reach it and if you’re coming from the north, you’ll need to navigate the extremely winding Eastern Dorrigo Way. But once you’re there, unwinding is easy.

Navigate the extremely winding Eastern Dorrigo Way to reach the charming village of Ulong.

Pine Avenue is where it’s at as the Ulong General Store and Café In The Valley are endlessly charming and it’s also where you’ll find the Ulong Ex-Services Club.

The Ulong General Store is a must-visit when in the area.

Established in 1956 and featuring the most jaw-dropping country NSW pub views, it’s the ultimate spot for lunch or sundowners. Grab a seat on the deck or pick a picnic table on the grass under the umbrellas as the kids make use of the undercover playground just a few steps away.

And don’t miss snapping panoramic town vistas from the lookout on Eastern Dorrigo Way where a tree-sheltered picnic table encourages you to savour the sights.

4. Nana Glen

You’ll recognise the name as Rusty Crowe’s home away from Hollywood but there’s more to Nana Glen than trying to spot his Coffs Coast acreage.

Pull up a chair inside the rustic Idle In Cafe.

Located within the Orara Valley along Orara Way, it’s a charming horse-dotted town that attracts visitors for the impressive Idle In Cafe, nailing top-notch coffee, fluffy homemade scones and a delicious all-day breakfast. Take a seat in the cosy courtyard and don’t leave without sussing out whatever peak local produce they’re selling on the day.

Old-fashioned treats don’t come better than those found at Idle In Cafe.

Nana Glen also houses Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD, a beautiful 230-acre property fitted with shaded campsites. Meanwhile, aimless wandering throughout Nana Glen will offer fresh country air and picturesque farm scenes (think cows dipping their hooves into trickling creeks, as spotted during our last visit) straight out of storybooks.

Push your tent pegs in at the sprawling 230-acre property.

5. Coramba

It’s the hinterland but don’t forget your cozzies. Coramba in the Orara Valley offers direct access to the soothing Orara River via Martin Street. Enjoy serene swims before grabbing a feed at the wonderful Coramba Hotel, which offers yet another atmospheric beer garden overlooking tree-lined mountains and farmland. Once you’re done gazing at Coramba’s natural beauty, get stuck into experiencing it. A stroll along Coramba Nature Reserve’s subtropical rainforest walk offers excellent birdwatching and ancient greenery.

6. Lowanna

Ulong’s next-door neighbour also follows the ever-winding Eastern Dorrigo Way from the north however you’ll hit it before you reach Ulong no matter where you’re travelling inland from. The town itself is small but don’t miss the Lowanna General Store and Box Car Café for a tasty bite, reliably lovely cuppa and great chats with endearing locals. Once you’ve filled your cup, in every sense, take advantage of Lowanna’s proximity to Little Nymboida River where tranquil waters beckon swimming, kayaking and paddling.

Lowanna General Store is the spot to stop for a meal and a yarn with locals.

7. Sawtell

Indulge in excellent seasonal produce and authentic international flavours in Sawtell, a beach town that’s emerging as a haven for winers and diners. The patrolled Sawtell Beach is a hit with surfers while Sailors Bay at the southern end offers sublime rock pool dips.

Surf the swells of Sawtell. (Image: Destination NSW)

When it’s time for a feed, there are plenty of hospitality stars to choose from. Bello e Buono is an unmissable Italian deli and café dishing up cannoli, amaretti, mortadella focaccia, al dente pasta and more with truckloads of love.

For Italian fare and excellent coffee head to Bello e Buono. (Image: Michal Kubala)

Lime Mexican rolls out classics alongside a menu of tequila, mezcal, sangria and cocktails, and Morty’s Joint is the place to be for American-style comfort food and a round of pool.

Hit up Lime Mexican for cocktails. (Image: Destination NSW)

Meanwhile, if it’s a laidback meal you’re craving, head straight to Sawtell Hotel for a reliably good pub feed.

Sawtell Hotel serves up seriously good pub food. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

For more unexpected wonders of the Coffs Coast, read our guide to Coffs Harbour and beyond.