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Moonee Beach Nature Reserve

National Parks and Reserves

Moonee Beach Nature Reserve

At Moonee Beach Nature Reserve, the rare and unique thrive: endangered bats roost in seaside caves, pockets of coastal rainforest thrive and pandanus trees flourish. Threatened and uncommon plant communities grow on the exposed headlands of Bare Bluff and the confidently named Look At Me Now headland. This place of magnificent scenic views and glorious coastline is the traditional homeland of the Gumbaynggirr people who value Look At Me Now Headland as an important and powerful Aboriginal heritage site. There's more to make the most of in this gorgeous part of NSW. Bring along your fishing rod, surfboard, diving gear or snorkel for the ocean or more sheltered estuary, which is part of Solitary Islands Marine Park and ideal for kids. Moonee is also a great place for picnicking, hiking, canoeing, birdwatching and seasonal whale watching. Keep your binoculars out for spotting white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys and brahminy kites as they hunt along the coast.

Bucca NSW

2.2 km away

Emerald Beach — Image credit: Coffs Coast

Natural Attractions

Emerald Beach

Emerald Beach is a lovely seaside village just 15 minutes north of Coffs Harbour and stone’s throw from Woolgoolga. This stretch of the Coffs Coast known for its raw, protected coastal landscape and with fabulous café choices just a lazy walk from the beach, it is easy to spend the entire day taking in the spectacular coastal views with the whole family. Emerald beach offers soft sand to walk your dog off-leash north of Fiddamans Creek, and stretches all the way to Diggers Head in the South, giving your pooch plenty of space to run free and take a dip if they so please. It’s a quieter atmosphere than some of the other beaches along the Coffs Coast, as well as being a safe option for swimming. You can take the kids on a beach walk around to Look At Me Now Headland or head to the playground in the park behind the beach. Lifeguards patrol Emerald Beach during the summer holidays, from December to the end of January, and thanks to a southern left hand reef break as well as a beach break is a surfing hot spot for locals and tourists. Solitary Island Surf School can often be found using Emerald Beach for beginner’s surf lessons as the southern headland shelters the beach from larger swells and makes a great spot to learn.

Emerald Beach NSW

2.2 km away

Dammerels History Walk — Image credit: Photo: B Webster

Natural Attractions

Dammerels History Walk

When the Dammerel family took the job as full-time operators of the signal station here in 1884, they could not have known what lay ahead over the next 40 years. Apart from extremely hard work, which the daughters took on as well, the family had their fair share of tragedy, mishap and love stories. Dammerels history walk is a short easy stroll with a superb view out to Solitary Islands, named by Captain Cook. Learn all about the workings of an historic 19th century lighthouse with a kerosene light and the signal station that provided its only link to the mainland. Hear the story of the Dammerel family and of the collision in 1886 of Keilawarra and Helen Nicoll. Only two bodies of the 48 who died in the accident washed ashore, and their graves are on Dammerels Head. Watch for wildlife like grazing eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, goannas and pythons. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views and this fascinating portion of Australian history.

Emerald Beach NSW

2.3 km away

Look At Me Now Headland Walk — Image credit: Photo: David Young

Natural Attractions

Look At Me Now Headland Walk

Look At Me Now Headland walk is a short, easy walking route with fabulous scenic views far out to sea, a lookout and beach access. Keep your fingers crossed for a breaching whale during winter and early spring. All year round, you can see eastern grey kangaroos nibbling on the grass and white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys and brahminy kites soaring above the coastline on the hunt. Take a picnic lunch and sit between the dwarf grassy and rocky heath, which have adapted to these exposed conditions. You may spot a threatened zieria, which flowers pink and white in spring with glossy, tough leaves. Look At Me Now Headland is an important Aboriginal site of deep significance to local Gumbaynggirr people. Preservation of this natural environment is also important to the broader community, and in 1989, over 5,000 people marched in a rally in Coffs Harbour to prevent destruction of the headland and adjacent beaches. It worked.

Emerald Beach NSW

2.3 km away

Solitary Islands coastal walk

Natural Attractions

Solitary Islands coastal walk

The Solitary Islands Coastal Walk is a 60 kilometres stretch between Sawtell in the south to Red Rock in the northern beaches, linking a string of idyllic golden beaches, rocky headlands, lush rainforest, and beachside villages along the Coffs Coast. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful walk on the east coast of NSW. The Solitary Islands coastal walk links a string of idyllic golden beaches, rocky headlands and lush rainforest along the Coffs Coast. Make your way through Coffs Coast Regional Park, Moonee Beach Nature Reserve and Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve before winding up at Sawtell, near Bongil Bongil National Park. Solitary Islands and Muttonbird Island are picturesque and make for perfect birdwatching, so bring your binoculars; little terns and white-bellied eagles are often seen along the shores. Dolphins surf the waves of these beaches all year round and the headlands are ideal for whale watching. There are plenty of options for picnicking, swimming and water sports. And with loads of nearby cafes and accommodation to suit any budget, you’ll want to keep coming back to discover all the charms of this beautiful walking track. If you’re feeling energetic, pack your backpack and do the whole walk and camp over four days.

Emerald Beach NSW

2.3 km away

Sandy Beach — Image credit: Coffs Coast

Natural Attractions

Sandy Beach

A real hidden gem, Sandy Beach located South of Woolgoolga on the Coffs Coast is a local favourite if you are looking to avoid the crowds. Sandy Beach is a popular swimming spot for locals, with the southern end most visited due to its protection from Bare Bluff. Swimming in this section is not advised, due to rips across the rest of the beach including a permanent rip on the northern end of the beach. It is a great walking location, surrounded by trails and positioned between Dammerels Head to the North and Bare Bluff to the South which gives stunning panoramic views both up and down the coast and the hinterland in the distance. Visit the nearby Sandy Beachouse and General store for some cool refreshments and takeaway snacks.

Sandy Beach NSW

3.7 km away

Coffs Coast Regional Park — Image credit: OEH

National Parks and Reserves

Coffs Coast Regional Park

It’s easy to experience an endless summer at Coffs Coast Regional Park. Lose yourself in its string of pristine beaches which together offer everything from unbeatable surf and safe swimming to picnic areas and children’s playgrounds. Explore undulating dunes, rainforest pockets, tranquil lakes, inviting parklands and charming coastal towns along the coastal walk and discover majestic headlands ideal for whale watching and taking in sweeping views of Solitary Islands Marine Park. Take your pick of outdoor activities – either in the water or along the waterfront. Go fishing, birdwatching or bodyboarding, take your dog for a walk, or find the perfect picnic spot for a memorable family barbecue. Joint management The Coffs Coast Regional Park Trust Board is responsible for the care, control and management of the park. Implementation of park management is shared between NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and City of Coffs Harbour, on behalf of the Board.

Woolgoolga NSW

4.7 km away

Moonee Creek canoe route — Image credit: OEH

Natural Attractions

Moonee Creek canoe route

What could be more relaxing than a day paddling, kayaking or canoeing in Moonee Creek? This estuary is part of Solitary Islands Marine Park which was the first marine park to be created in New South Wales. Tranquil and tree-lined, the creek offers a way to explore the southern section of the park. You can easily spend the whole day enjoying this beautiful estuary. Pack a picnic lunch and fishing rods for catching bream and flathead. Bring along your binoculars for birdwatching – the wildlife is plentiful. The kids can swim, lilo, or wade through the shallows, and, if you check the tides, it can be a very easy trip on the gentle current. Different forest types can be found in Moonee Beach Nature Reserve, such as littoral rainforest, coastal she-oak and banksia woodland. Try and pick out which is which while passing on your canoe, and keep a waterproof camera handy for that sought-after photograph of a sleeping koala.

Moonee Beach NSW

5.0 km away

Moonee Beach — Image credit: Coffs Coast

Natural Attractions

Moonee Beach

Moonee Beach is a fabulous spot to spend time with friends and family soaking up the great outdoors. Moonee Beach Reserve, where Moonee Creek meets the beach, is a shaded, pet-friendly picnic area perfect for a day by the water. Take the kayak out for a paddle or float your way day the creek while the kids play at the waters edge. The Reserve boasts a raft facilities including a playground, picnic shelters, barbecues, toilets, beach showers and a takeaway shop. Take in the natural beauty along Moonee Creek and paddle to Moonee Beach, a highly valued Gumbaynggirr area. Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours offers paddleboard, kayak, and hiking eco-tours of this beautiful marine park creek. Catch a wave with the local surfers, try a spot of fishing or enjoy the Moonee Creek Walk around the estuary and creek. Nature lovers, keep your binoculars out for spotting white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys and brahminy kites hunting along the coast. You may even spot a whale or two! Reflections Holiday Park Moonee Beach is located on the waterfront and offers a variety of accommodation options. Need to head to the shops? Nearby Moonee Marketplace has a chilled vibe making shopping a breeze.

Moonee Beach NSW

5.0 km away

Simulator Hire available at REDD's

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Redd's Golf Zone

Redd's Golf Zone is a first-of-its-kind, 24/7 indoor 6 bay Trackman golf simulator facility based in Woolgoolga — designed to meet the growing demand for flexible, high-quality golf experiences. Born from a love of golf and a drive to bring the game indoors, Redd's Golf Zone started with one simple idea: make golf accessible for anyone, anytime, rain or shine. What began as a vision between friends, is now the region's biggest 24/7 indoor golf simulator hub. The offering includes 6 premium Trackman golf simulator bays (Casual Hire & Memberships), PGA coaching, club fittings, barista-made coffee, retail accessories (Adidas, Birds of Condor, Onyx, Wilson, Henry-Griffits, Srixon & Mizuno). They're building a community around golf.

Woolgoolga NSW

5.3 km away

Woolgoolga Creek picnic area

Natural Attractions

Woolgoolga Creek picnic area

Woolgoolga Creek picnic area is a delightful place for a picnic and a fantastic way to experience the plants and animals that make Sherwood Nature Reserve so special. Nestled below towering flooded gums, you'll find this secluded picnic area fringed with blue quandongs. There's plenty of space for the kids to run around, and nearby rainforest and creeks to explore, making it a great family day out. Find a spot on the grassy lawn, throw down a picnic rug and listen to the sounds of nature. Or head over to the picnic tables and cook up a storm on one of the barbecues. Goannas are regular visitors here, so you'll probably spot one wandering through while you're enjoying a picnic. You'll also see brush turkeys and butterflies while there are over 50 species of birds around Woolgoolga Creek. If you're feeling like a short walk, don't miss the superb waterfall views at the end of Falls walking track or continue exploring the nature reserve along Sherwood Forest drive.

Woolgoolga NSW

5.5 km away

Falls walking track

Natural Attractions

Falls walking track

Starting at Woolgoolga Creek picnic area, this easy walk meanders alongside Woolgoolga Creek to Woolgoolga Creek Falls. Stroll through subtropical rainforest and admire cascading vines, bangalow palm and magnificent stands of blue quandong. There are several creek crossings to navigate, so while your shoes will get wet, you and the kids will love the adventure. Along the way, you’ll see a myriad of wildlife such as goannas, pythons and butterflies and might hear the sounds of the threatened giant-barred frog. With over 50 bird species recorded in the Woolgoolga Creek rainforest, this is also a great place for birdwatching. Keep your binoculars handy to spot wompoo pigeons, rose-crowned fruit-doves, brush turkeys and grey-headed flying foxes. If you want to learn more, why not take a ranger-guided discovery tour? It’s a great way to explore Woolgoolga Creek and get some local knowledge. After your walk, explore more of Sherwood Nature Reserve along Sherwood Forest drive.

Woolgoolga NSW

5.5 km away

Packed to the rafters with all things bees — Image credit: Coffs Beekeeping Supplies

Agritourism

The Woopi Bee Shed

The Woopi Bee Shed, home of Coffs Beekeeping Supplies, specialises in educating people about European and Native Beekeeping and providing beekeepers with a wide range of equipment and supplies. Tucked away in a paperbark forest in the beachside town of Woolgoolga, The Woopi Bee Shed offers visitors the chance to purchase local honey, view hives and talk to beekeepers about the ins and outs of beekeeping. The first impression visitors have of the shed is the wonderful aroma of honey and pure beeswax coming from the onsite hives. The Woopi Bee Shed also hosts several classes and immersive workshops throughout the year focusing on different aspects of beekeeping, and also how to harvest and use beeswax. If you have an interest in beekeeping, or love the taste of raw local honey or the aroma of beeswax candles this is the perfect destination for you.

Woolgoolga NSW

5.9 km away

Sikh Heritage Museum — Image credit: Coffs coast

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Sikh Heritage Museum

Discover the rich history and spirit of the Sikh community at the Sikh Heritage Museum of Australia, located in Woolgoolga. This fascinating museum invites visitors to explore the vibrant culture, faith, and traditions of Sikh people—both in Australia and around the world. Through captivating exhibits, learn about the origins of the Sikh religion, the lives and teachings of the Ten Gurus, the rise of the Sikh Empire, and the remarkable contributions of Sikhs during the world wars, including the Sikh ANZAC legacy. The museum also tells the story of the first Sikh settlers in Australia and the growth of Woolgoolga's thriving Sikh community. Dedicated to sharing knowledge, understanding, and cultural harmony, the Sikh Heritage Museum offers a welcoming and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Woolgoolga NSW

6.2 km away

Woolgoolga Gallery Main Entrance — Image credit: Woolgoolga Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Woolgoolga Art Gallery

Discover creativity at Woolgoolga Art Gallery. Located in the heart of Woolgoolga on the Coffs Coast, Woolgoolga Art Gallery is a vibrant hub for artists, makers and visitors seeking local creativity. The gallery features two exhibition spaces. The Exhibition Gallery presents a program of themed exhibitions that change every six weeks, showcasing the work of local and visiting artists. The Main Gallery operates as the Members Gallery, displaying a rotating selection of artworks by members of the Woolgoolga Art Group. The gallery also includes a retail shop offering handmade art and craft by gallery members, providing visitors with the opportunity to purchase unique, locally created pieces. Beyond exhibitions, Woolgoolga Art Gallery is home to two studio spaces. One is fully equipped for ceramics, with pottery wheels and a kiln, while the second hosts art classes, workshops and creative activities throughout the year. Whether you are an art lover, curious visitor or aspiring artist, Woolgoolga Art Gallery is a welcoming place to connect with creativity on the Coffs Coast.

Woolgoolga NSW

6.7 km away

Woolgoolga Beach — Image credit: Coffs Coast

Natural Attractions

Woolgoolga Beach

Treat the family to a day by the sea at Woolgoolga Beach and Headland. Recently voted Australia's Best Mainland Beach for 2025 this stunning location is not to be missed! Woolgoolga, also known as Woopi, is renowned for its swimming, surfing, fishing, diving and snorkelling. There's a grassy reserve with a small park nearby with play equipment and plenty of shade for a picnic as well as plenty of cafes and eateries across the road on the main street. This beach is patrolled by Lifeguards every day from the September school holidays to the end of April school holidays. Up on the headland, you find scenic walking tracks and jaw-dropping coastal views that stretch to Yuraygir National Park and the dunes and rolling hills of the Coffs Coast and hinterland.

Woolgoolga NSW

7.0 km away

Sapphire Beach — Image credit: Coffs Coast

Natural Attractions

Sapphire Beach

Just a short 9 kilometre drive north of Coffs Harbour, the panoramic views, resorts, and clear blue waters of Sapphire Beach await you. Midway along Sapphire Beach is the South Solitary Island viewing platform, where you can take in panoramic views of this historic lighthouse island and neighbouring island, Split Solitary Island. You can visit South Solitary Island by helicopter from May to August for a tour of the lighthouse and island. Take a boat tour or go diving in Solitary Island Marine Park waters surrounding the island. At the southern end of Sapphire Beach is White Bluff. Take the White Bluff Walking Track from the beach or Headland Rd to explore the rocky outcrops of the bluff, stop for a picnic and or take in the sunset views. There's accommodation for every taste and budget along this coastal strip, from luxury resorts and houses to the family-friendly Sapphire Beach Holiday Park. Enjoy lush subtropical grounds, local wildlife, and beachfront access to the pristine waters of Sapphire Beach. Sapphire Beach can be accessed from several exits off the Pacific Highway. You'll find beach access points with playground facilities, cafe, beach showers, toilets, and parking.

Sapphire Beach NSW

7.2 km away

XS Surf — Image credit: Coffs Coast

Shopping and Markets

XS Surf

XS Surf is a locally-owned surf shop in Woolgoolga village attracting visitors and surfers for decades with their great selection of surfing gear. You'll find major surf brands, including one of the Coffs Coast's largest range of ladies' swimwear, in this old-school surf shop conveniently located opposite Woolgoolga's main beach. As well as surf clothing and footwear for everyone in the family, you can also hire equipment to get you into the waves. Hire options include surfboards, body boards, stand-up paddle boards and wetsuits - enough to satisfy all saltwater enthusiasts.

Woolgoolga NSW

7.2 km away

Solitary Islands Surf School - Woolgoolga and Sawtell

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Solitary Islands Surf School - Woolgoolga and Sawtell

Solitary Islands Surf School operates at the best locations on the the Coffs Coast. Big headlands offer great protection from the wind, and the beaches are nice and flat which is perfect for surfers of all ages and ability. This combined with the fact they are located right at the heart of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, provides a unique surfing experience. Can you imagine yourself, family and friends riding a wave on the beautiful Coffs Coast? Their popular Surfing Experience's run for individuals or private groups and are available all year round for all ages and ability. You can chose your day, time and location with a Coffs Coast Experience Private Lesson or you can join a group with lessons including all equipment. Their Coffs Coast Surfing Lesson's are delivered by some of the most experienced coaches in Australia with decades of surf coaching experience and even more years of ocean experience. They believe in creating a relaxed supportive environment that will give you more confidence and help your surfing progress. Everything they do is with a smile as the best surfer is the one having the most fun.

Woolgoolga NSW

7.3 km away

Woolgoolga Beach and Headland — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary

Natural Attractions

Woolgoolga Beach and Headland

Woolgoolga Beach and Headland has the best whale watching in the Coffs Region, plus great surfing, fishing and picnics and scenic views. Treat the family to a day by the sea at Woolgoolga Beach and Headland. Woolgoolga, also known as ‘Woopi’, is renowned for its swimming, surfing, fishing, diving and snorkelling. There’s a small park nearby with play equipment and plenty of shade for a picnic. Up on the headland, you find scenic walking tracks and jaw-dropping coastal views that stretch to Yuraygir National Park and the dunes and rolling hills of the Coffs Coast and hinterland. Between May and October, Woolgoolga Headland is the place to be for the best whale watching in the Coffs region. Be sure to take your binoculars for up close views of these amazing creatures and don’t forget to tweet about what you’ve seen.

Woolgoolga NSW

7.6 km away

Woolgoolga Lake — Image credit: Photo: Rob Cleary

Natural Attractions

Woolgoolga Lake

Woolgoolga Lake is a great place for canoeing, kayaking, swimming and birdwatching. Make a day of it - pack a picnic or barbecue to enjoy at this scenic spot. Switch to a slower pace of life at Woolgoolga Lake on the north coast. You’ll find a family-friendly picnic area, shielded from the sun by shady eucalypts and paperbarks. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a lazy afternoon, serenaded by waterbirds, children laughing, barbecues sizzling and waves crashing nearby. The lake is a calm tidal inlet so it’s great for a spot of paddling in a canoe or kayak, swimming and fishing or just floating along on a lilo. There’s a wealth of resident birdlife to watch. And, if it’s low tide, you can take the short stroll across the mouth of the lake and then onto the beach - it’s almost like walking on water.

Woolgoolga NSW

7.9 km away

Safety Beach Golf Club — Image credit: SB Golf Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Safety Beach Golf Club

Safety Beach Golf Club is a picturesque 18-hole course situated between the Pacific Ocean and Darkum Creek south of Woolgoolga and run by Woolgoolga Diggers Club. The par 72 course caters to golfers of all abilities, featuring generous fairways and inviting, reachable greens. Strategic bunkers, water hazards, subtle pin placements and ever-changing ocean breezes add an extra challenge, rewarding accurate and thoughtful play. The signature holes are the short par three 11th which is reached by hitting over water onto it's difficult sloping multi-level green, and the long par four 8th which features the out-of-bounds fence running down the left-hand side, with a creek and a network of bunkers guarding the smallish green. The course also features a vast array of native wildlife including a huge population of kangaroos. The clubhouse has a fully stocked bar and offers a limited range of food including fresh sandwiches and rolls, pies, sausage rolls, and hot chips. The clubhouse features a large undercover area where members and guests can enjoy a relaxing drink while watching the 9th Green.

Safety Beach NSW

8.3 km away

welcome to Spa Elements — Image credit: Heritage Healers

Spas and Retreats

Spa Elements

Spa Elements offers visitors to the region a unique wellness experience - a combination of holistic healing therapies together with the latest anti-ageing technologies; embracing indigenous healing rituals and modern skin science. Supported by local skincare company Heritage Healers, and a team of dedicated beauty and wellness professionals, our specialty is highly personalised spa rituals, treatment programs and special events, all focused on restoring your life balance and well-being. Spa Elements can also cater for all your special occasion beauty needs, including group bookings. Located at Opal Cove Resort the Spa is set on 36 hectares of lush coastline; just seven kilometres North of Coffs Harbour city centre, and less than 15 15-minute drive from Coffs Harbour Airport.

Korora NSW

9.7 km away

Mt Coramba Downhill — Image credit: Coffs Coast

Natural Attractions

Mt Coramba Downhill

One of Australia's most renowned and long-standing downhill trails is surrounded by the beauty of the Coffs Harbour forested areas, with spectacular views of the mountains and the sea. The trail has a rich history and is known for its amazing build quality and attention to detail. It is a pure downhill trail built and managed purely for the advanced gravity rider by Dozer's team at Coffs Downhill who have twenty-five years of experience racing, constructing and maintaining the finest quality of trails. The exciting trail contains an abundance of features, including smooth jumps, exciting drops, fun fast sections and challenging natural obstacles planned and built around the natural shapes of our beautiful forest. The track has played host to some record-breaking major events over the years, thanks to Coffs Downhill, with exciting future events to be staged in conjunction with Clarence Valley Mountain Bike Club. The vast experience of the two parties ensures a great future for downhill mountain biking in our area for a long time to come.

Karangi NSW

11 km away

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