Staying on the Coffs Coast and want to explore beyond the beaches? Just inland, Bellingen Shire offers boho towns, cool rivers, rainforest walks, music and markets within easy reach for a day trip or overnight stay.
Before travelling, check current road conditions and allow extra time if planning to move between Bellingen and Dorrigo.
The Coast — Urunga & Mylestom
Approximate drive time from Coffs Harbour:
• Urunga — 20 minutes
• Mylestom — 20 minutes
Estuary walks, quiet beaches and relaxed coastal villages define this stretch of the Mid North Coast. Walk the newly and partially opened 200m section of the Urunga Boardwalk, visit the bird watching paradise of the Urunga Wetlands, and explore the cute seaside village of Mylestom with its new netted river tidal pool, and both river and beach access. These areas are directly accessible via the Pacific Highway and make for an easy half-day or full-day outing.
Check out the Day in Urunga Itinerary and the small but mighty selection of Places to Eat in our coastal towns.
Urunga Boardwalk
North Beach Mylestom General Store
The Bellingen Valley
Approximate drive time from Coffs Harbour:
• Bellingen township — 30–40 minutes
The Bellingen Valley offers heritage streetscapes, riverside swimming spots and a strong café and food culture with boutique shops and galleries. Spend the morning browsing independent shops, cool off in the Bellinger River, and explore scenic hinterland drives. Don’t forget to check out the Growers, Farmers, and Community markets.
Check out the Day in Bellingen Itinerary and Where to Eat in Bellingen
Bellingen Brewery
Bellingen Town
Bellinger River
The Dorrigo Plateau and Gondwana Heritage Rainforest and Waterfalls
Approximate drive time from Coffs Harbour:
• Dorrigo township — 1 hour 15 minutes
The Dorrigo Plateau is known for its World Heritage-listed ancient rainforest, sweeping escarpment views and some of the region’s most iconic waterfalls. In Dorrigo National Park, the Skywalk lookout offers expansive views over the rainforest canopy and valley beyond, while walking tracks wind through the rainforest to Crystal Shower Falls. For a more adventurous outing, the hike from Never Never picnic area leads to Red Cedar Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park. Just 2 km from town, Dangar Falls is a must-visit — a striking waterfall and one of New South Wales’ best waterfall swim holes.
Check out the Day in Dorrigo Itinerary and the best Waterfalls and Secret Gems.
Skywalk in Dorrigo National Park
Crystal Shower Falls
Red Cedar Falls
Arts, Culture & Local Events
Beyond its landscapes, Bellingen Shire is known for a strong creative culture shaped by artists, musicians, growers and small producers. Galleries, studios and live music venues sit alongside historic halls and several regular markets, giving the region a year-round cultural rhythm.
Markets are a central part of local life. The Bellingen Community Markets, held monthly, bring together handmade goods, local produce and live music in the heart of town. On the Plateau, Made in Dorrigo market is held three times a year, transforming the main street into “Creative Central” and showcasing dozens of local artists and creatives. Smaller community and farmers markets across the Shire provide opportunities to meet growers and makers directly.
Festivals and events also contribute to the area’s character, from music and arts gatherings to food and seasonal celebrations. Many events are community-led and reflect the Shire’s environmental values and independent spirit.
To explore creative spaces and meet local makers, view the Arts Trail Itinerary.
For upcoming markets, performances and community events, see What’s On.
Bellingen Markets
Bellingen Memorial Hall
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re adding a day in the hinterland or extending your Coffs Coast stay, you’ll find places to stay, eat and explore across the Bellingen Shire.
Visit Bellingen Shire: Plan your trip to Bellingen Shire Visit Bellingen Shire
