Driving holidays - Sydney to Coffs Harbour (NSW)

The great thing about cruising in a campervan to Coffs Harbour is that you can either do it from Brisbane or Sydney, therefore offering two very different journeys to enjoy. For us, we chose the Sydney option and while it would take about seven hours maximum with no stops, we spent five days negotiating the route along the Pacific Highway, a great option for some diverse stop-overs along the way.

Newcastle

First port of call was Newcastle after a leisurely two hour cruise. This city is one of extremes - a rougher element stemming from its early days as a shipping and commercial centre, with iron and steel mills built. While some parts of town are eyesores, the rest is beautiful, including some amazing beaches such as Stockton, Nobbies and Mereweather, while the Honeysuckle Boardwalk - an area that was a once derelict harbour area - now boasts funky restaurant-bars, a brewery and a great walk.

Forster

Second port of call the was Forster Beach Caravan Park, another two hour drive. (We find the two hour stints work best, especially if you have kids!). We caught an amazing sunset and also had the good fortune of witnessing some dolphins putting on a show after arriving. If you have time, take stroll along the Bicentennial Coastal Walk and providing your journey is around Spring you should be able to take in a whale watching cruise. Check out the Big Buzz Fun Park and car lovers will enjoy the car museum.

Coffs Harbour

Last but not least we arrived in Coffs Harbour, the highlight of our journey. This place has a to-die-for climate, sunny days most of the time (though locals told me it can get quite wet and sticky with high humidity). Though a little overrated, check out the Big Banana and slip behind this major tourist attraction for either a Harley ride or a big super slide adventure. While in Coffs there are loads of attractions but one that must be factored in is a visit to the Pet Porpoise Pool. Alone, it's worth the drive in your campervan along the Pacific Highway from Sydney to Coffs Harbour. Dolphins, seals, whales, barbecue, gift shop, shady areas - this one has the lot for families.

SCOTT PODMORE

Scott Podmore

Award-winning writer, editor, photographer, videographer and owner of October Grey Media. Specialising in travel and lifestyle content and a full member of the Australian Society of Travel Writers. Has contributed regular content for the NewsCorp stable of newspapers and magazines, TravelTalk mag, The Departure Lounge and many more publications in Australia and internationally. Follow on Twitter & instragram #scottpodmore

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