Sydney to Coffs Harbour road trip: Distance, driving time and best stops
Sydney to Coffs Harbour road trip: North of Newcastle
The drive north from Sydney to Newcastle is via Ourimbah, Cooranbong and Morriset. Both the Hunter Valley wine region around Cessnock and dolphin-watching hotspot Port Stephens are short detours on the way.
9 cool Newcastle experiences you need to book in advance
- An Adventure boat cruise along the Hunter coast – with thrills and scenery.
- A mobile phone-based scavenger hunt – explore the city differently.
- An architecture and street art walking tour – see all the best murals.
- A whale-watching tour – get close to the migrating humpback whales.
- A two hour city highlights tour by bus – get orientated when you first arrive.
- A scenic helicopter flight – see the spectacular coastline from above.
- A three hour craft beer and food-matching tour – get a taste of the drinking and dining scene.
- A food, drink and history walking tour – hear stories and indulge at the same time.
But Newcastle, the second largest city in New South Wales, is in the middle of them. Things to do in Newcastle include scenic helicopter flights, true crime walking tours and whale-watching cruises.
For Newcastle accommodation options, try the apartment-style Crown on Derby, the budget-friendly Merewether Motel and the luxurious Crystalbrook Kingsley.
Otherwise, continue up the Pacific Highway via Raymond Terrace, Karuah, Bulahdelah and Taree.
Best Taree accommodation
Taree accommodation is available for from $105 per night. But the best choices are…
- For central location: In Town Motor Inn.
- For good value and a pool: Caravilla Motor Inn.
- For charm and warmth: Birches B&B.
- For distinctive character: A Railway Lodge.
Port Macquarie is the logical next stop. But there are several excellent diversions on the Newcastle to Port Macquarie leg should you choose to go along the coastal route. These include beachy hangouts Seal Rocks, Blueys Beach, Elizabeth Beach and the Booti Booti National Park around Wallis Lake.
Click through to the next section: Forster and Port Macquarie.