Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Coffs Harbour is a coastal gem that hits all the right notes for RV travellers. Whether you’re on a slow loop of the east coast or planning the ultimate road trip between Sydney and Brisbane, this laid-back city offers an unbeatable mix of ocean views, subtropical hinterland, family fun, and that classic Aussie beach-town feel. With its compact size, natural beauty, and excellent RV infrastructure, Coffs makes it easy to stay, play, and explore at your own pace.
One day you could be walking under rainforest canopies in Dorrigo National Park, and the next you’re kicking back on Jetty Beach with fish and chips in hand. There are well-equipped holiday parks right by the ocean, scenic drives that rival anything in Australia, and local highlights like the iconic Big Banana, whale watching cruises, and Sunday markets.
Whether you’re a seasoned grey nomad, a backpacking vanlifer, a young family, or an international tourist keen to see the real Australia — Coffs Harbour welcomes all types of road trippers with open arms, salty air, and a whole lot of banana-flavoured charm.
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ToggleWhat Makes Coffs Harbour a Great RV Destination?
Coffs Harbour is one of the most well-rounded RV destinations on the New South Wales coast. It blends beautiful beaches, lush hinterland, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly fun — all within easy reach of your campervan or caravan. For travellers road-tripping between Sydney and Brisbane, Coffs makes the perfect pit stop or even a base for a longer stay.
Geographically, it’s rare to find a place where you can surf in the morning and hike to a waterfall by afternoon. The Solitary Islands Marine Park hugs the coast, offering protected coves, snorkelling, and whale watching. Head inland just 30 minutes, and you’ll find rainforest trails, tumbling waterfalls, and elevated views along the Waterfall Way. Whether you love beach camping, rainforest drives, or local farmers markets, Coffs has a little something for every type of traveller.
Seasonal Breakdown: Best Times to Visit
Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers in the hinterland, fewer crowds, great walking conditions.
Summer (Dec–Feb): Beach weather, school holiday buzz, water sports galore. Book early.
Autumn (Mar–May): Mild, calm, perfect for hiking and quieter coastal stays.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Whale watching, crisp mornings, ideal for road trips without the heat.
Thanks to its subtropical climate, Coffs rarely gets too cold or too hot, making it a reliable year-round RV destination. Even in winter, daytime temps often sit comfortably between 18–22°C.
The Local Vibe
Coffs Harbour has that sweet balance of tourist town and working community. It’s big enough to have all your RV essentials — fuel stations, dump points, repair centres — but still small enough to feel welcoming and relaxed. You’ll find local seafood shops, Sunday markets, friendly holiday park staff, and plenty of coastal charm without the overcrowded feel of places like Byron Bay.
From rainforest to reef, surf beaches to mountain lookouts — Coffs Harbour is the kind of place that invites you to slow down, stay longer, and truly soak in the freedom of the open road.
Where to Rent an RV in Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour is a convenient location to start or continue your road trip adventure, especially if you’re travelling along the Pacific Highway between Sydney and Brisbane. Whether you’re looking for a luxury motorhome or a no-frills campervan, there are several reliable rental companies that cater to all budgets and travel styles. Here’s a list of the top RV and campervan hire options servicing the Coffs region.
1. Apollo Camper Rentals – Coffs Harbour
Location: Local depot on the northern side of Coffs
Vehicle Types: Hitop campers, 2–6 berth motorhomes, 4WD camper options
Highlights:
Trusted national brand with roadside assistance
Flexible one-way hire available
Easy online booking with extras like bedding, GPS
Visit website: https://www.apollocamper.com
2. Cruisin’ Motorhomes – Coffs Harbour Depot
Location: Close to the airport and Pacific Hwy
Vehicle Types: 2–6 berth campervans and motorhomes
Highlights:
Well-maintained, modern fleet
Competitive rates for longer rentals
Great for couples, families, and grey nomads
Visit website: https://www.cruisinmotorhomes.com.au
3. Camperman Australia – Coffs Harbour Pickup Service
Location: Nearby servicing with flexible delivery options
Vehicle Types: Budget campervans (2–5 berth)
Highlights:
Affordable for backpackers and vanlifers
18+ driver age accepted with conditions
Kitchen, bedding, fridge all included
Visit website: https://www.campermanaustralia.com
4. Wicked Campers – Budget Option
Location: Northern NSW, offers delivery to Coffs for extended bookings
Vehicle Types: Funky painted vans (2–3 berth), manual transmission
Highlights:
Ideal for younger travellers or minimalists
Cheapest option for short trips
Lightweight and easy to park
Visit website: https://www.wickedcampers.com.au
5. Coffs Coast Motorhome Hire
Location: Local business servicing Coffs and surrounds
Vehicle Types: Fully self-contained 2–4 berth motorhomes
Highlights:
Personalised local service
Great for weekenders and regional trips
Flexible pick-up/drop-off in Coffs
Visit website: https://www.coffsmotorhomehire.com.au
Rental Tips for RVers in Coffs Harbour
Licensing: A full unrestricted driver’s licence is required. International travellers should carry a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) with their home licence.
Tolls: Coffs Harbour has no toll roads. If your journey includes Sydney or Brisbane legs, register with Linkt at https://www.linkt.com.au to avoid toll fines.
Insurance & Inclusions: Always check what’s covered — damage excess, tyre/windscreen protection, roadside assistance, and kilometre limits.
Self-Contained Vans: Some free camps in the Coffs region require self-contained certification — ask the rental company to confirm suitability.
Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour is a dream destination for RVers, with a wide range of holiday parks and campgrounds that cater to every kind of traveller. From beachfront powered sites to peaceful forest retreats, you’ll find plenty of options with dump points, camp kitchens, and easy access to attractions. Whether you’re travelling with pets, kids, or simply looking for a quiet spot to unwind, Coffs has you covered.
1. BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park
Location: Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour
Why Stay Here: Prime beachside location just minutes from the Jetty and coastal walks. Great for families.
Facilities: Powered sites, dump point, camp kitchen, pool, water playground, BBQs
Pet-Friendly: Yes (off-peak only)
Visit website: https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/nsw/north-coast/park-beach
2. NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Resort
Location: Arrawarra Beach (30 mins north of Coffs)
Why Stay Here: Set in a beachfront nature reserve with excellent wildlife, family facilities, and large RV bays.
Facilities: Powered/unpowered sites, camp kitchen, dump point, kangaroo spotting, pool, golf course
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au/darlington-beach/
3. Sawtell Beach Holiday Park
Location: Sawtell (south of Coffs)
Why Stay Here: Tucked behind the dunes in a charming beachside village with shops, cafés, and a cinema.
Facilities: Powered sites, modern amenities, laundry, BBQs
Pet-Friendly: Yes (conditions apply)
Visit website: https://coffsharbourholidayparks.com.au/sawtell-beach/
4. Woolgoolga Lakeside Holiday Park
Location: Woolgoolga, north of Coffs
Why Stay Here: Quiet, peaceful, and close to the beach — ideal for a slower pace and nature-focused travellers.
Facilities: Powered sites, dump point, BBQs, lakeside trails
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://coffsharbourholidayparks.com.au/woolgoolga-lakeside/
5. Reflections Holiday Park – Moonee Beach
Location: Moonee Beach (15 mins north of Coffs)
Why Stay Here: Bordered by a marine estuary and national park, perfect for paddleboarding and bushwalking.
Facilities: Powered/unpowered sites, eco cabins, BBQs, walking access to creek and beach
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://reflectionsholidayparks.com.au/park/moonee-beach/
6. Coffs Harbour Showground Camping Area
Location: Howard Street, Coffs Harbour
Why Stay Here: Budget-friendly and centrally located, ideal for short stays near town.
Facilities: Basic powered/unpowered sites, toilets, showers
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://www.coffsshowground.com.au/camping/
Tips for Booking & Staying in Coffs Harbour
Booking Seasons: Peak times include NSW school holidays, long weekends, and summer (December–January). Book early, especially for beachfront sites.
Public Transport Access: BIG4 and Park Beach area parks are near buses and walkable to shops and cafés.
Free Camping Rules: Coffs Harbour Council does not permit overnight camping in public carparks or roadside locations. Use official parks or move inland where self-contained free camping may be permitted.
Use CamperMate/WikiCamps: Check real-time reviews, facilities, and availability across all Coffs Coast camping options.
RV Facilities and Essentials in Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour offers everything RV travellers need to stay safe, self-sufficient, and road-ready. Whether you’re topping up on water, emptying tanks, refuelling, or fixing up your van, the local infrastructure is excellent. Below is a complete guide to dump points, water refill stations, fuel stops, repair shops, and the best apps to help you on the go.
Dump Points in Coffs Harbour
Woolgoolga Dump Point
Located on Boundary Street, free public access with easy drive-in/drive-out layout.Park Beach Holiday Park
For staying guests only; full service station with dump, rinse, and potable water.Coffs Harbour Showground Camping Area
Dump point available to overnight guests. Convenient location near CBD.
Tip: Use WikiCamps to check user reviews and status of dump points before arrival.
Fresh Water Refill Stations
BP North Coffs (Pacific Hwy) – Ask staff before using the outdoor tap. Easy RV access.
BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park – Water available at all powered sites (for guests).
NRMA Darlington Beach Resort – Potable water included for campers.
Woolgoolga Lakeside Holiday Park – Taps located throughout campground.
Always carry a food-grade hose for refills and ensure water is clearly marked as potable before filling.
RV-Friendly Fuel Stations
Shell Pacific Hwy, North Coffs – Wide entry, high clearance, diesel and unleaded
BP South Coffs (near Stadium Dr exit) – Easy for towing setups, close to highway
Caltex Woolgoolga – Accessible for long vehicles; useful for northbound trips
Freedom Fuels Moonee Beach – Competitive pricing, decent turning radius
Tip: Download FuelMap Australia to find the cheapest local fuel: https://www.fuelmap.com.au
RV Repairs & Accessory Shops
Jayco Coffs Harbour
RV and caravan sales, servicing, spare parts, solar installs
Visit website: https://www.jaycoffsharbour.com.auCoffs Caravans & Motorhomes
Full-service RV repair centre, accessory fitting, electrical repairs
Visit website: https://www.coffscaravans.com.auBattery World Coffs Harbour
Dual battery systems, lithium upgrades, 12V accessories
Visit website: https://www.batteryworld.com.au/stores/nsw/coffs-harbourAutobarn Coffs Harbour
General automotive parts, roof racks, towing accessories
Visit website: https://www.autobarn.com.au
Recommended Travel & Fuel Apps
WikiCamps – Campground listings, dump points, filters, reviews
https://www.wikicamps.com.auCamperMate – Trip planner, local advice, free camping legality
https://www.campermate.com.auFuelMap – Real-time fuel prices across NSW
https://www.fuelmap.com.auBOM Weather – Weather and bushfire alerts, storm warnings
https://www.bom.gov.au
Parking, Driving & Local Regulations in Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour is a relatively RV-friendly destination thanks to its spacious roads, free-flowing traffic (outside of peak holidays), and accessible parking near major attractions. However, to avoid fines and ensure a smooth trip, it’s important to understand local rules around day parking, overnight stays, road limits, and compliance.
Can You Drive an RV into the CBD?
Yes, most RVs can comfortably access Coffs Harbour’s central areas including the Jetty precinct, Park Beach, and Harbour Drive. Streets are generally wide, and there are no major tunnel or bridge height restrictions within town. However, parking a large motorhome or a towed caravan in the heart of the CBD can be tricky during business hours or weekends.
Tip: Use Jetty Beach foreshore, Park Beach Reserve, or Coffs Showground as base areas for day parking — all offer easier turnaround space and access to facilities.
Day Parking & Overnight Camping Laws
Day Parking:
Free large-vehicle parking bays are available at Park Beach, the Jetty area, and near Diggers Beach.
Use dedicated parking zones at holiday parks or beach reserves for easy walkable access to cafes, markets, and beach paths.
Overnight Camping:
Overnight stays in public areas, rest stops, or carparks are not permitted within Coffs Harbour Council limits.
Self-contained vehicle camping is allowed only in designated areas or official holiday parks.
Rangers actively patrol for violations, particularly near beaches and shopping centres.
Penalties for non-compliant camping start around $110 and can include eviction notices and repeat fines.
Local Driving Rules to Know
No Toll Roads in or around Coffs Harbour.
Speed Zones: 50 km/h in most urban areas, 100–110 km/h on the Pacific Hwy. School zones strictly enforced.
National Park Access: Roads in Dorrigo, Bindarri, and Bongil Bongil may have restrictions for large or non-4WD vehicles. Check with NSW National Parks before attempting entry.
Bridge & Height Restrictions: None significant within the Coffs city area, but confirm vehicle height if venturing onto older hinterland roads or rural bridges.
Parking Fines & Traffic Info
No-sleep zones are clearly signed in Coffs Harbour.
Overnight parking in residential or commercial zones is subject to fines and towing.
For local parking maps and live road alerts:
Visit website: https://www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au
Tip: Before choosing a parking spot or rest stop, double-check on WikiCamps or CamperMate to confirm legal status.
RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do in Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour offers one of the most diverse collections of attractions you can explore in an RV — from iconic family fun to wild nature adventures and coastal culture. Many activities are within easy day-trip range, with scenic drives, ample parking, and plenty of spots to relax and explore at your own pace.
National Parks & Nature Experiences
Dorrigo National Park
A must-do inland adventure, about 1 hour from Coffs.
Home to waterfalls, World Heritage-listed rainforest, and the Skywalk Lookout.
Easy day trip via the Waterfall Way (suitable for most RVs).
Visit website: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/dorrigo-national-park
Bindarri National Park
Secluded, less-visited park west of Coffs Harbour.
Great for birdwatching, 4WD tracks, and quiet forest picnics.
Best accessed with off-road-capable vans or a tow vehicle.
Solitary Islands Marine Park
Stretches along the coast from Coffs to Wooli.
Offers beach access, diving, kayaking, and seasonal whale watching.
Great viewing spots include Look At Me Now Headland and Moonee Beach.
Scenic Drives for RVers
Waterfall Way Scenic Drive
From Coffs Harbour through Bellingen to Dorrigo.
Ideal RV route with lookouts, rainforest trails, and small-town charm.
Stop at Sherrard Falls, Ebor Falls, and Dangar Falls.
Coffs to Woolgoolga Coastal Route
Drive north along the coast for hidden beaches, quiet villages, and RV-friendly picnic spots.
Woolgoolga Headland is a top whale watching site (June–November).
Coffs to Bellingen & Beyond
Easy half-day loop exploring artisan cafes, markets, and the Never Never River.
Avoid towing through Bellingen’s main strip if parking is limited — use side streets.
Pet-Friendly Places
Jetty Foreshores Pathway – Leashed pets welcome, with grassy areas and beach views.
Moonee Beach Reserve – Off-leash friendly zone near the estuary.
Sawtell Headland Walk – Coastal trail with dog access and picnic areas.
Many caravan parks allow pets — always check individual policies.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Big Banana Fun Park
Coffs’ most iconic attraction with waterslides, toboggan rides, mini golf, and laser tag.
Ample parking for RVs available on-site.
Visit website: https://www.bigbanana.com
Dolphin Marine Conservation Park
Interactive experiences with dolphins, seals, and marine life.
Educational, hands-on and suitable for all ages.
Visit website: https://www.dolphinmarineconservation.com.au
Coffs Harbour Butterfly House
Tropical enclosure with hundreds of butterflies, maze, and picnic area.
Great for young families and nature lovers.
Visit website: https://www.butterflyhouse.com.au
Markets, Local Food & Events
Harbourside Markets (Jetty Foreshore)
Every Sunday, with food trucks, crafts, produce, and live music.
Dog-friendly and easy to park nearby.
Bellingen Growers Market (Sat mornings)
Short drive inland. Offers fresh organic produce, handmade goods, and live tunes.
Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-op
Buy fresh local prawns, snapper, and oysters direct from the source.
Cook them up at your caravan park BBQ.
Tip: Local events like the Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival and Sawtell Chilli Festival add even more to the experience — check local listings when planning.
Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour is a well-equipped and easygoing destination for RV travel, but like any road trip hotspot, knowing a few insider tips can make a big difference. Here are 10 expert travel tips to help you get the most from your Coffs Coast adventure.
Book Holiday Parks in Advance During Peak Seasons
Summer holidays and Easter long weekends fill up fast, especially at beachfront parks like Park Beach and Darlington. Reserve powered sites 2–3 months ahead.Use Jetty Area and Park Beach for Easy Day Parking
These areas offer wide bays, scenic surrounds, and walking access to cafés, shops, and beaches — perfect for a midday stopover or extended lunch break.Avoid Highway Travel at Holiday Turnover Times
Northbound traffic on the Pacific Highway can get congested on Fridays and Sundays during peak periods. Travel early or midweek for smooth sailing.Top Up Fuel in Woolgoolga or Moonee Beach
Fuel is often cheaper at these stations than in central Coffs. Use FuelMap Australia to find the best local prices.Bring Insect Repellent — Especially Near Water
Wetlands around Moonee Creek and Sawtell attract mozzies and midges in warmer months. Protect yourself, especially at dusk.Buy a National Parks Pass If Visiting Hinterland Parks
Parks like Dorrigo and Bindarri require a valid NSW Parks pass. You can buy online or at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.Have a Backup Camping Plan in Peak Periods
If your preferred holiday park is full, consider heading north to Woolgoolga or inland to Nana Glen for quieter sites with good facilities.Listen to Local Radio for Traffic and Fire Updates
Especially useful during bushfire season (Nov–Feb). Tune into ABC Coffs Coast 92.3 FM or check the BOM app for alerts.Explore Surrounding Villages for a Change of Pace
Bellingen (30 mins inland) offers artsy cafés, river walks, and Saturday markets. Nana Glen is great for bush drives and farm visits.Use WikiCamps or CamperMate Daily
These apps are gold for confirming dump point access, checking real-time reviews, finding free camps, and verifying pet policies on the go.
How Coffs Harbour Compares to Other RV Destinations
Coffs Harbour holds its own against some of Australia’s most well-known RV destinations — offering an ideal mix of natural beauty, manageable traffic, and excellent facilities. Here’s how it stacks up against other popular stops along the East Coast and inland NSW:
Coffs Harbour vs Byron Bay
Coffs Harbour: Quieter, more relaxed, better availability of RV parks, and easier driving access.
Byron Bay: Trendier and highly popular, but often overcrowded, expensive, and restrictive for campers.
Verdict: Coffs is more RV-friendly with fewer crowds and more nature diversity.
Coffs Harbour vs Port Macquarie
Coffs Harbour: Greater diversity of attractions (marine park, banana plantations, rainforest drives).
Port Macquarie: Strong on history, river walks, and beaches but fewer nature-based excursions.
Verdict: Port is better for culture buffs; Coffs is stronger for outdoor adventurers and families.
Coffs Harbour vs Brisbane
Coffs Harbour: Easygoing, smaller scale, no tolls, with camps close to natural attractions.
Brisbane: Urban, busy traffic, and fewer coastal campsites near the city.
Verdict: Brisbane wins on urban attractions; Coffs offers better value and a closer connection to nature.
Coffs Harbour vs Bellingen
Coffs Harbour: Coastal, family-oriented, and full of variety.
Bellingen: Boutique, slower-paced, and popular with arts and alternative culture travellers.
Verdict: Combine both — Bellingen is a beautiful 30-minute detour from Coffs and adds inland charm to your trip.
Coffs Harbour vs Dorrigo
Coffs Harbour: Offers a wide range of activities including surfing, dining, and marine adventures.
Dorrigo: Quiet, cool, rainforest-focused with elevated views and scenic hikes.
Verdict: Dorrigo is a great day-trip destination; Coffs is the better all-round base with full RV amenities.
Overall, Coffs Harbour is the kind of place that’s easy to live in and hard to leave — especially for RVers who want a bit of everything: ocean, rainforest, scenic roads, and a laid-back pace with all the essentials.
Conclusion / Final Thoughts
Coffs Harbour is one of those rare places that caters effortlessly to all kinds of RV travellers — young road trippers chasing surf, grey nomads exploring rainforests, or families seeking fun, nature, and relaxation. Its unique geography delivers a genuine coastal-hinterland balance, and its compact layout makes exploring easy, whether you’re staying a weekend or a week.
With top-tier caravan parks, accessible scenic drives, free camp options nearby, and plenty of dump points and fuel stops, it’s clear why Coffs is a favourite stop on the Pacific Highway. You’ll find something to do in every direction — from watching whales breach offshore to driving into the misty mountains of Dorrigo.
So pack your beach towel, hiking boots, and banana bread appetite, because Coffs Harbour invites you to slow down, settle in, and explore a side of New South Wales that’s as welcoming as it is unforgettable.