Emerald Beach Holiday & Caravan Park - Things to see and do

Distance from park: 20km

Located along the Coastal Waters of the Coffs Coast, Solitary Islands Marine Park is home to over 550 species of fish, 90 species of coral and other amazing wild marine plants and animals. Activities include fishing, diving, surfing, whale watching, boating and beach activities. The vastness of the Marine Park stretches from Muttonbird Island in Coffs Harbour to as far north as Sandon - meaning there are over 75 kilometres of estuaries, islands and coastal waters to explore.

Distance from park: 47km

One and two hour horse rides with breakfast or BBQ. Overnight rides, teen saddle club, 400 acre property and fully accredited. Phone (02) 6653 4301

Distance from park: 20km

Be touched by magic and experience interactive dolphin shows twice daily. Phone (02) 6659 1900

Distance from park: At the park

Emerald Beach is one of the top beaches along the Coffs Harbour coastline and it boasts among one of the best surf spots in the region. Locals flock to the surf when it’s at its peak and our guests who are looking for a place to catch a wave are not disappointed when they see the scenery that we at Emerald Beach love to call home.

Distance from park: 20km

Coffs Harbour boats a number of markets, including Growers Markets for fresh fruit and vegetables and arts & craft markets for special charms and knick knacks

Distance from park: 16km

Fun Park with ice skating, water park, toboggan rides and laser tag. Phone (02) 6652 4355

Distance from park: 17km

This is a kids dream - a place completely devoted to fun and play. Glow-in-the-dark mini golf, a Balladium Ball Blaster, jungle gym soft-play, video games and cafe. Phone (02) 6658 0924

Distance from park: 20km

Featuring a large collection of existing and new items of historical significance from the Coffs Harbour region, as well as temporary and travelling exhibitions. Phone (02) 6651 5239

Distance from park: 30km

Walk among hundreds of live butterflies - many rare and spectacular. Lyons Rd exit, 9kms south of Coffs Harbour. Phone (02) 6653 4766

Distance from park: 18km

This family fun activity nestled in the Emerald Beach area is a great way to learn how to make a delicious collection of cheeses. This cheesy workshop starts from 10am and goes right through until 4pm – tastings, morning tea and a lunch inspired by cheese is also included. Phone (02) 6656 2335

Distance from park: 20km

Drive south towards Coffs Harbour from Emerald Beach to the Bruxner Park Flora Reserve in Orara East State Forest. From the lookout you can see as far south as Toormina and as far north as Sapphire Beach. Entry is free and open to vehicles. There are rainforest walks ranging from 1 to 3 hours. Picnic tables and toilets are available.

Learn to surf at Solitary Islands Surf School. Aside from catching some waves at the Surf School, there are a range of facilities at Emerald Beach including a children’s playground, electric barbeques, picnic shelters, toilets, beach showers, a boat ramp, a general store and two great cafe/restaurants close by. Council lifeguards patrol Emerald Beach 7 days a week during the summer holidays, starting the end of December and finishing the end of January from 9am – 5pm daily.

Distance from park: Various Lengths

With most pathways in the Emerald Beach area limited to walking, there are a few cycle routes located south of Coffs Harbour that have been constructed by the Coffs Harbour City Council.

Distance from park: 123km

White water rafting, surf rafting, sea kayaking, surf lessons. Phone (02) 6658 0850

Distance from park: 22km

Everybody loves a camel ride and why wouldn’t you want to ride one of these magnificent creatures along one of Coffs Harbour's most extraordinary scenery. With 'Camel Rides' slowly making a name for itself in Coffs Harbour, it's regarded as one of the things to ‘tick’ off of your ‘to do list’.

Distance from park: 20km

This unique gallery is situated in an old World War 2 bunker that has been converted to an unusual, exciting but comfortable space. It houses the biggest collection of cartoons in Australia, as well as showing work of emerging local and visiting artists. Phone (02) 6651 7343

Distance from park: 20km

The vibrant hub of community life in Coffs Harbour, explore the diverse collection of local, national and international artists or book a spot in one of the many artist led talks and workshops.

Distance from park: Various Lengths

Every year from late May, thousands of humpback whales migrate north along the east coast of Australia. A number of whale-watching tours operate from the Coffs Harbour Marina - or head to one of the coastal headlands which also offer good viewing points.