Sydney to Byron Road Trip: The Ultimate NSW North Coast Itinerary
Planning a road trip from Sydney to Byron Bay? The NSW North Coast is one of Australia’s most scenic drives, packed with laid-back beach towns, national parks, crystal-clear lakes, and iconic coastal stops. From quiet seaside campgrounds to vibrant coastal villages, this route is all about slowing down and soaking up the journey as much as the destination.
I’ve included our interactive map below so you can easily follow the route and plan your own stops along the way.
Tiona & Surrounding Coastal Adventures
Our first stop was Tiona, where we stayed at Tiona Holiday Park booked via G’Day Parks right on the edge of Booti Booti National Park, surrounded by ocean, lakes, and palm trees. Sunset at Wallis Lake was a highlight for us, with the calm waters and golden light reflecting across the lake, it creates the most perfect evenings.
Make sure you check out Seven Mile Beach, a wide, pristine stretch of sand ideal for long walks, swimming, or catching a few waves. Next, we continued to Seal Rocks, known for its rugged headlands, untouched beaches, and the iconic lighthouse walk. Number One Beach is a must see! A beautiful sheltered beach, great for kids, beginner surfers and INSANE snorkelling! You must be very careful as it can get very rough here round the headland, but if you're lucky you’ll spot turtles, wobbegong’s, thousands of fish and even whales (during migration season!)
Tamworth: Capital of Country
After a scenic 4.5-hour drive over the Barrington Tops, we arrived in Tamworth, the country music capital of Australia. The rolling hills and forests along the way made the drive as memorable as the destination itself.
We timed our visit to coincide with the Tamworth Country Music Festival, held every January, and it did not disappoint! Make sure you stay at Austin Tourist Park booked via G’Day Parks just 20 mins outside of the city, they really out did themselves in making our stay during the festival period as smooth as possible.
This time of year the town buzzes with energy, live music, and fans from all over the country! A highlight was visiting the Golden Guitar, the iconic symbol of the festival, and soaking up the history of country music in Tamworth.
For a thrilling experience, check out the Xtreme Bulls at the Equestrian Arena… OH MY this is an adrenaline-packed showcase of bull riding and country sports that kept everyone on the edge of their seats!
Tamworth also has a lively pub scene, perfect for soaking in the local culture. We spent evenings at spots like The Longyard and the Tamworth Hotel, enjoying cold drinks, live music, and a true taste of Aussie country hospitality.
Tamworth Country Music Festival Tips
Getting around: There are regular festival buses every hour from Austin Tourist Park, running from 8am until 2am. Tickets are $2.50 each way, or you can grab a $40 pass for the entire week, which makes getting around easy and stress-free.
Pack water: January in Tamworth is hot, so bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Dress the part: Embrace the country vibes — cowboy boots, hats, denim, and western-style outfits are all part of the experience and add to the fun.
Harrington Beach: Family-Friendly Coastal Escape
We stayed at Harrington Beach Discovery Parks, and it was fantastic. The park is ideal for families, with two pools, spacious deluxe powered sites, and excellent facilities. Our site was huge, giving us plenty of space to relax and unwind. It’s also in close proximity to town, making it easy to pop out for groceries, coffee, or a quick bite to eat.
The natural surroundings here are stunning. Harrington Lagoon is beautiful for a swim. Make sure you also head down to the Harrington Breakwall - it’s a great fishing spot, and we saw tons of fish while we were there!
Just a short walk from the park is Crowdy Bay National Park, with plenty to explore including 4WD tracks, beach driving access, and Crowdy Head Beach. The beach is unpatrolled, so I don’t recommend swimming there, but it is beautiful to see. Be sure to check out the short, easy Rainforest Walk, which leads out to the beach and is a beautiful, peaceful stroll. And don’t miss Crowdy Head Lighthouse, especially at sunset - the views are absolutely breathtaking.
On our way to Harrington, we visited Guulabaa – Place of Koala, just 15 minutes from Port Macquarie. The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable, and all proceeds go directly towards koala conservation. It’s such a beautiful, heartwarming, and educational stop — especially for animal lovers.
Crowdy Bay Lighthouse, Crowdy bay National Park, NSW
Port Macquarie: Adventure, Water Fun & Coastal Highlights
From Harrington, we continued to Port Macquarie, staying at Stoney Park Holiday Park in Telegraph Point, located around 15 minutes north of the Port Macquarie CBD. This riverside park is ideal for families and adventure-seekers alike, offering access to the Stoney Aqua Park, paddleboarding, aqua golf, and water skiing; a fun and active way to spend your days on the water. Even as adults, we loved the challenge and energy of the park!
Tip: Book aqua park sessions in advance during peak periods and bring plenty of sunscreen. Lifejackets are provided, making it safe for all confidence levels.
More Things to Do in Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie has a great mix of outdoor adventure, coastal walks, and relaxed seaside vibes. Here are a few highlights worth adding to your itinerary:
Coastal Walks: The Port Macquarie Coastal Walk is a must, offering scenic headlands, secluded beaches, and ocean views. You can tackle shorter sections or the full walk depending on time.
Town Beach & Flynns Beach: Perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing by the water.
Glasshouse Arts Centre: A great stop for exhibitions, live performances, or a cultural break from the beach.
Waterfront Dining: The marina and town centre are lined with cafés and restaurants — perfect for sunset dinners or relaxed brunches by the water.
Heading north along the NSW coast, we made a stop at South West Rocks, and wow — it truly felt like a hidden gem! DON’T SKIP THIS COASTAL TOWN. The water here is some of the bluest we’ve ever seen along the Mid North Coast.
A must-do is walking across Back Creek Bridge, which is also a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkelling, with crystal-clear blue water and a protected setting that makes it ideal on calm days. We could have easily spent hours here!
Another highlight is Trial Bay Gaol, a historic coastal ruin perched high above the ocean. The panoramic views over Trial Bay are incredible, and the site offers a fascinating insight into the area’s history, making it one of the most unique heritage attractions in NSW.
Nambucca Heads: Oysters, River Life & a Laid-Back Coastal Stop
Our next stop was Nambucca Heads, a relaxed coastal town where river, ocean, and local culture all come together. We stayed at Pelican Holiday Park booked via G’Day Parks, just outside the main town but still an easy drive to everything.
A highlight of our visit was Nambucca Oyster Co, a seventh-generation French family-owned oyster farm that produces some of the best oysters on the NSW Mid North Coast. Their oysters are grown in the clean, nutrient-rich waters of the Nambucca River, giving them a beautifully fresh, briny flavour… And let me tell you… they are the BEST! Antoine kindly took us out on the River and showed us the entire farming and production, it was incredible!
We visited the iconic V-Wall, a colourful breakwall of murals and messages - great for a walk, photos, or watching the waves. The Nambucca River is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkelling, with calm water and plenty of wildlife. Matilda’s Café is perfect for coffee and breakfast, and the town has great local eateries for dinner.
Coffs Harbour: Coastal Culture, Cycling & Fresh Seafood
From Nambucca Heads, we continued north to Coffs Harbour, staying at Emerald Beach Discovery Parks booked via G’Day Parks, a relaxed coastal park that makes a great base for exploring both the beaches and the town itself. Emerald Beach is quieter than central Coffs, but still close enough to easily access all the highlights.
One of the best ways to experience Coffs Harbour is by bike. The Creek Cycleway is a standout — a flat, scenic path that winds alongside the creek, through parklands and coastal sections, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Along the way, you can stop at some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, including the impressive Coffs Harbour Whale Mural and the colourful Coffs Harbour Street Art Murals, which add a creative edge to the coastal setting.
Coffs Harbour Art Mural, Coffs Harbour
We also made time to visit the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery and Arts Museum, which offers a great insight into local art, culture, and exhibitions - a nice contrast to all the outdoor adventures.
For seafood lovers, Fisherman’s Co-op is a must. This local institution serves some of the freshest seafood on the Mid North Coast, and it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch by the water. In the evening, we headed to Stef & Co, a fantastic Italian restaurant set right on the creek. The combination of incredible food, waterfront views, and relaxed atmosphere made it one of our favourite dinners of the trip.
If you have extra time, make sure you check out Look At Me Now Headland just 15 mins from Coffs in Emerald Beach. This headland is a MUST at sunset, you will be surrounded by kangeroos (but please don’t touch) and watch the sky absolutely light up with colours!
Tip: Hire bikes early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays. Bring a reusable water bottle and sunscreen as the while the cycleway is scenic and peaceful, there aren’t many shops directly along the route.
Ballina: Coastal Vibes, River Adventures & Local Eats
From Coffs Harbour, we headed to Ballina, staying at Ballina Discovery Parks booked via G’Day Parks, a family-friendly park near the Richmond River and just a short drive from the beaches.
The Richmond River is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a scenic river cruise, with calm waters and plenty of native birdlife. For beach lovers, Shelly Beach, Seven Mile Beach, and Lighthouse Beach are all worth visiting — perfect for swimming, surfing, or long coastal walks. Don’t miss Sharpes Beach Lookout for panoramic ocean views and the chance to spot dolphins in the wild.
For unique landmarks, Ballina Head Lookout offers sweeping views of the coastline, while the North Wall is a great spot for a stroll or watching boats and local fishermen at work. And of course, you can’t visit Ballina without stopping at the quirky Big Prawn, a fun photo opportunity and local icon.
Tip: Head out on the river in the morning when waters are calm. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for the lookouts and beaches.
Byron Bay: Popular Beaches, Coastal Walks & Local Flavours
From Ballina, we continued just 30 mins north to the popular Byron Bay, staying at Byron Bay Discovery Parks, a spacious and well-equipped base that makes it easy to explore both the beaches and the town itself. Byron Bay is a vibrant coastal town known for its relaxed, bohemian vibe, world-class surf, artisanal food scene, and stunning natural beauty…. and oh my word does it live up to it’s name. It quickly became our favourite stop so far!
A must-visit is the Cape Byron Lighthouse & Coastal Walk, and it may be touristy but I understand the hype at arriving for sunrise… it is MAGICAL! We were skeptical and it ended up being the best day of the trip. You met with sweeping ocean views, we saw turtles, manta rays and dolphins from above. The lighthouse sits at Australia’s easternmost point, and the surrounding walking trails provide breathtaking views over rugged cliffs and beaches.
For beach time, Main Beach is perfect for surfing or a casual swim, while Wategos Beach feels more secluded and serene - ideal for sunbathing or a quiet picnic. Surfers will also love The Pass and this is a famous spot for good reason! Beautiful long, rolling waves suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders, with stairs up to a fantastic look out over the beach. You can’t miss this!!!
Food and local experiences are highlights in Byron Bay. The Farm is a working farm with cafés, markets, and fresh produce, offering a taste of rural Byron Bay life. Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss the Oyster Bar, where fresh, local oysters and coastal dishes make for an unforgettable meal. And if you’re visiting over the weekend, the Byron Bay Markets are the perfect place to pick up handmade goods, fresh produce, and soak in the local culture.
Tip: Stay at Byron Bay Discovery Parks for easy access to all the main beaches and attractions. Arrive early at the lighthouse for sunrise and quieter trails, check tide times before swimming or surfing, and bring cash for the markets and café stops.
The Pass, Byron Bay
From Sydney’s vibrant city energy to Byron Bay’s iconic beach culture, this Sydney to Byron Bay road trip showcases some of the best coastal scenery, food, and laid-back coastal towns along Australia’s east coast. This road trip is all about exploring local gems, stunning beaches, national parks and enjoying the drive just as much as the destination!
Next up, we’re heading north as the adventure continues through the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast - stay tuned for the next blog!
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