Rainforest-wrapped views, cascading waterfalls, incredible wild swimming spots, and too-good-to-to-true views are just a few of the many reasons to add Bellingen to your summer bucket list this year. It effortlessly ticks all the boxes but perhaps best of all, despite sharing the same breezy vibe as its more glamourous counterparts like Yamba and Byron Bay, it remains a hidden gem to most. Bellingen is also one of the original bohemian towns in NSW, that revels in its earthy, artsy side with plenty on offer for all types of travellers. Read on for how to plan the perfect summer getaway to Bellingen.
Bellingen, NSW
This naturally pristine spot in the hinterland of the mid-North Coast offers rest, reflection, and a chance to reconnect with nature. With languid hikes, organic cafes, secluded beaches, and wineries, this greenery-focused escape is perfect for when you can’t bear the summer heat. The town also has a lively downtown with plenty of vibrant cafes, cosy boutiques, and local crafts if you prefer a more urban experience — and don’t skip the weekend markets. Here are some of the best things to see, eat and do on a trip to Bellingen.
1. Cruise along the wonderful Waterfall Way
The stunning Waterfall Way is one of the best road trips in NSW packed with waterfalls and dense rainforest views in a nifty 3-hour drive. Meandering past verdant forests, gorges, national parks and small towns — one of which is Bellingen — this is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Northern Tablelands region of New South Wales, and particularly lovely after a day’s worth of rain. The drive connects the towns of Coffs Harbour and Armidale. See our full guide to Waterfall Way and must-visit highlights.
2. Take a dip in the clear waters of Promised Land
Bellingen’s swimming holes and rivers are legendary and probably the top thing you should add to your itinerary if planning a visit. The enchanting Promised Land is the most famous in the area, with stunning natural rock pools and a crystal-clear stream of vibrant blue waters. For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, a picturesque rope swing at the pool lets you leap into the cool waters below. Like the surrounding area, rainforest views are abundant here and it’s conveniently located just a short 15-minute drive from the town centre so it’s also easily accessible.
3. Shop at the Bellingen community markets
To get a closer look into that famous alternative lifestyle we mentioned earlier, head to one of Bellingen’s community markets. This is where you can get a taste of local living, handmade products, fresh local produce, and excellent coffee. Take the time to chat with the friendly stallholders and soak in the creative spirit of the small town. The popular Bellingen Community Markets are held every third Saturday of the month in Bellingen Park with delicious hot food, a variety of stalls, artisanal treats and a strong community atmosphere. Meanwhile, the weekly Bellingen Farmers and Produce Market is the place to go for fresh, farm-to-table produce and local artisan goods. It is held each Wednesday, also at Bellingen Park.
4. Hike through the Dorrigo National Park
One of Bellingen’s huge draws is its vicinity to the incredible Dorrigo National Park. Just a quick 30-minute drive from the town centre, this lush national park offers some of the best sparkling waterfalls in NSW, ancient Gondwana rainforest and jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. A must-visit highlight here is the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre’s canopy boardwalk, which offers gorgeous views of the valley and hikers will particularly love the famous Wonga Walk that leads past subtropical rainforest, 600-year-old trees and the seriously pretty Crystal Shower Falls. Drive a bit further, north of the Dorrigo town centre and you’ll find the dramatic Dangar Falls that flows into a swimming hole. Find more information on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
5. Dine at the vibrant cafes and restaurants
Bellingen boasts a collection of eclectic cafes with a distinct hippie feel and restaurants that are definitely worth exploring. Standouts include the Old Butter Factory Cafe where you can get your hands on a delightful selection of ice cream, gelato, and sorbet, along with housemade cakes, tarts, and slices and Tropical Gelato which will transport you to gelato heaven. Plus, head to the Black Bear Cafe, the town’s longest-running cafe that serves breakfast, brunch and lunch under the vines and don’t miss their locally sourced house-made organic blend and single-origin coffee. Other spots to visit are Za’atar on Hyde Street which dishes out heart Middle Eastern street food and the inviting H&S Granola and Espresso Bar.
6. Stroll the beautiful Urunga Boardwalk
The Urunga Boardwalk is one of the most iconic destinations in the Bellingen Shire and Coffs Coast drawing visitors from near and far to experience its stunning views. Starting in the town of Urunga, the boardwalk winds along the serene banks of the Kalang River, reaching the junction with the Bellinger River and extending out to the ocean. The boardwalk is flanked by lovely ocean views and plenty of rest areas for a leisurely summer stroll.
7. Witness the nightly Flying Fox spectacle
Aside from the usual attractions, Bellingen offers some off-the-beaten-path adventures which include glow worm caves and incredible sunrise spots. One slightly eccentric phenomenon that the town is known for is the Flying Fox spectacle. Grab your camera and head to the Bellingen River at dusk, where you’ll witness a natural display as thousands of bats take to the skies, soaring from their home on Bellingen Island.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Bellingen for warm-weather activities is from mid-November to early April. This is when you can enjoy natural sunshine, rainforest hikes and splashing around in the refreshing swimming holes. In winter, these same outdoor adventures may be limited, but you will be rewarded with fewer crowds and off-season prices. Find accommodation options and read more about Bellingen here.
Getting there
Bellingen sits halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, about a 5.5-hour drive north of Sydney and just 30 minutes southwest of Coffs Harbour. Conveniently, you can also catch the train from Central Station to Uranga and then hop on a bus to Bellingen but the journey would take around nine hours, so pack accordingly.