If you’re road tripping from Coffs Harbour to the Gold Coast, then finding some great spots to swim is no doubt a priority.
After all, the North Coast of NSW is home to some of the best beaches in the world.
Plus, there’s a bunch of lesser-known swimming holes inland, including places where you can take a dip under a waterfall.
Here’s your stop-by-stop guide to where to swim.
SWIMMING SPOTS IN AND AROUND COFFS HARBOUR
Don’t leave Coffs Harbour without jumping into some of its best swimming spots. For gentle waves, cafes and classic photos of Coffs’ 100-year-old timber wharf, head to Jetty Beach.
Meanwhile, at the less busy Emerald Beach, you’ll find pretty views and maybe even dolphins. But, if it’s big surf you’re after, make tracks to Diggers, which also offers spectacular sunsets.
Head north for half-an-hour to reach gorgeous Red Rock, named after its stunning rock formations. Or, go inland for a dip under Scouts Falls – one of the many unexpected adventures you can have in and around Coffs.
SWIMMING SPOTS IN AND AROUND YAMBA
Your next stop should be Yamba, which lies around 90 minutes’ drive north. Here, you’ll find nine beaches to explore.
Travelling with the family and looking for sheltered swimming spots? Go to Main Beach. Life savers are on hand, plus there’s a rockpool. Alternatively, swing by Whiting Beach, which lies on the Clarence River mouth, where it’s well protected from ocean swell.
Surfers should put Angourie Point on the itinerary. The only catch is that this 150-metre-long break can be pretty popular, so arrive early or be prepared to wait your turn.
Just behind Angourie are the famous Blue and Green Pools. These deep, stillwater pools were quarries until a freshwater spring was disturbed, transforming them into swimming holes.
SWIMMING SPOTS IN AND AROUND BYRON BAY
Another 90 minutes in the car will land you in Byron Bay. A dip at Main Beach, backdropped by the Great Dividing Range, is undoubtedly one of the North Coast’s most special experiences.
But, there’s a bunch of lesser-known spots not far away. To introduce the kids to the magic of swimming under a waterfall, head to Killen Falls, which are 30 minutes’ drive south. There’s a big pool surrounded by rainforest, as well as a cave and lookout to explore.
45 minutes’ drive west, in Nightcap National Park, are Whian Whian Falls, which are a bit of a local secret. For the best experience, visit after rain. But, even if the falls aren’t flowing at their fullest, it’s still a lovely spot for a picnic – and the drive in and out is a delight.
SWIMMING SPOTS IN AND AROUND TWEED HEADS
Your last stop before reaching the Gold Coast should be Tweed Heads, where there are 38 kilometres of coastline.
For white sands and picturesque views, swing by Kingscliff Beach. It’s also home to Cudgen Creek, a calm swimming spot that’s ideal for children.
To escape the crowds and soak up some spectacular scenery, head for Dreamtime Beach, which is just south of Fingal Head.
Another half-an-hour’s drive will you get to the Gold Coast, where you’ll be treated to 70 kilometres of uninterrupted coastline.
HOW TO ROAD TRIP FROM COFFS HARBOUR TO THE GOLD COAST
The road trip from Coffs Harbour to the Gold Coast is a 300-kilometre journey that takes you through some of Australia’s prettiest spots. For more ideas about where to stop, check out our Sydney to Gold Coast itinerary.
Don’t have time to drive all the way from Sydney? Fly to Coffs Harbour Airport or the Gold Coast Airport, and pick up a SIXT car rental.
