Luxury on the North Coast is less about marble lobbies and more about space: uncrowded beaches, rainforest, volcanic hinterland and good food and wine. North Coast luxury holidays suit travellers who would rather pay for time and comfort than tick off a long list of stops.
This page covers the premium tour we list, what the region offers around it, and how to think about timing. For a wider picture, our North Coast travel guide is the place to start.
The premium tour we list
One premium tour sits at the top of our North Coast listings, so there is no long ranking to wade through.
| Tour | Length | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Day Tours Anna Bay and Nelson Bay, Port Macquarie | 12 hours | from AUD 450 |
It is a full 12-hour day, so it is a proper outing rather than a quick sample. Check the tour page for current prices and inclusions before you book.
Scenery worth paying for
The region is defined by the fertile valleys of the Clarence, Richmond and Tweed rivers and by its white sandy beaches. It is bounded by the Coral Sea and the Tasman Sea to the east, with the Great Dividing Range forming a mountainous edge to the west.
In the far north stands Mount Warning, surrounded by the remnants of the long-extinct Tweed Volcano. Just south was once the Big Scrub, an extensive area of subtropical rainforest. Much of it was cleared in the nineteenth century, but the red volcanic hills inland from Byron Bay now grow Australia's main crop of macadamias.
Experiences that suit an indulgent trip
Visitors to the wider North Coast enjoy uncrowded beaches, dolphin dives, good food and wine, and walks through ancient forests. Byron Bay has a reputation as a centre for relaxation and yoga. Nimbin, in the Lismore area, draws people interested in permaculture and sustainable living, and holds its annual MardiGrass celebration.
For culture, the Tweed Regional Gallery at Murwillumbah includes the Margaret Olley Art Centre, with examples of her work and a recreation of her home studio, including the Hat Factory and the Yellow Room. We reckon it is a better wet-day plan than most.
Where to stay and how to get around
Accommodation ranges from beachfront tourist parks to beach houses, hotels and luxury resorts and retreats in the hinterland. Browse our North Coast accommodation page, or our North Coast apartments if you want more room. The Mantra Observatory in Port Macquarie combines apartment-style living with resort facilities, in hotel rooms or one to three bedroom apartments.
The region is traversed by the Pacific Highway and the North Coast railway line linking Sydney and Brisbane. The Legendary Pacific Drive runs between Sydney and Tweed Heads past national parks, coastal hamlets and beaches. There are airports at Coffs Harbour and Ballina, near Byron Bay, and at Coolangatta just over the Queensland border. If you would rather not drive, see our North Coast transfers.
The best months to go
The region has a mild, subtropical climate, which is part of its appeal. Check conditions on Visit NSW, the official state tourism site, when you settle on dates. Byron Bay can fill with partygoers from south-east Queensland at certain times of the year, so if quiet is your idea of luxury, ask about busy periods when you book.
More ways to plan
Browse North Coast tours and rentals for other options, or North Coast specials if price matters. Background on the region is on Wikipedia: Northern Rivers.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the premium North Coast tour?
The Anna Bay and Nelson Bay day tour from Port Macquarie is listed from AUD 450 for a 12-hour day.
Is it easy to reach the North Coast?
Yes. You can come by road, by rail on the Sydney to Brisbane line, or by air via Coffs Harbour, Ballina or Coolangatta.
What is the climate like?
It is mild and subtropical, which suits a relaxed trip.
