There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Coff’s Harbour into a quick city adventure. From CFS, the Local Bus Service can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Coff’s Harbour, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Australia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Coff’s Harbour is roughly 30 minutes from CFS via Local Bus Service. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Coff’s Harbour, two standouts are:
- Coffs Harbour Jetty & Muttonbird Island Walk — Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
- The Big Banana Fun Park — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CFS, check out Cloud Cafe & Bar Relaxation or Airport Souvenir & Gift Shop to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Coff’s Harbour
You have two main options for getting from Coffs Harbour Airport into town:
- Local Bus Service: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Coff’s Harbour, local travelers recommend Latitude 30 Restaurant & Bar. If you have time for a second stop, Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-operative is another popular pick.
Back at CFS, The Cloud Cafe (Coffee & Breakfast) is the go-to. The Cloud Cafe (Lunch & Snacks) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Coff’s Harbour:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $17 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $36 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
WiFi at CFS should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Australia and you’re good to go.
Luggage Storage at CFS
Luggage storage is available at Luggage storage and lockers are generally not available at Coffs Harbour Airport due to its small size.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Coff’s Harbour.
Need a Nap? Options at CFS
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CFS, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Coff’s Harbour exploring the streets or relaxing at CFS, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.