The grass is growing faster and the days are getting longer, the heat of summer has arrived. This year we’re planning to play it cool here in the Coffs Harbour hinterland. With plenty of waterholes, rivers, and secret waterfalls to explore, we’ll help you escape from the heat of the day. Join us for a dip in the fresh waters of our top five places in the Orara Valley to cool down this summer.
Located just 1.6km walk from the eastern park entrance of Bindarri National Park, Bindarray Picnic Area is exactly where you want to be at noon on a hot summer day. How does picnicking under the shade of Bangalow palms and old growth tropical forest on the banks of the Urumbilum River sound? Better yet, make sure to wear you swimmers for a dip in the creek crossing and crystal clear river pools nearby.
Directions from Friday Creek Retreat (25 min):
Turn right out of the FCR entrance onto Fridays Creek Rd. Turn Right onto S Island Loop Rd. Turn Left onto Upper Orara Rd. Turn Left onto Dairyville Rd to the eastern precinct entrance of Bindarri National Park. 2 wheel drive vehicles must park here at the entrance to the park and walk the beautiful 1.6km along Jersey Bull Rd (lower road on the left) through a creek crossing to the Bindarray picnic area.
If you’re up for a journey to explore a rough track leading to crystal clear waters, then you’ll love magic pools. Located in Orara West State Forest, this secret spot is dog friendly and just the beginning for exploring even more off the beaten track waterfalls and waterholes nearby.
Directions from Friday Creek Retreat (20 min):
Turn right out of the FCR entrance onto Fridays Creek Rd. Turn Left onto S Island Loop Rd. Turn Left onto Dingo Creek Rd. then take 4WD Carmadys Rd. to Frontage Creek Rd. The magic pools are on the Right.
Easily accessible from the centre of Coramba, this locals favourite is a refreshing spot on the Orara River for a swim. Enjoy all that Coramba has to offer, including the dog friendly alfresco seating at the Coramba Hotel, then mosey on down to the river with your furry friend. Relax under the tall trees shading the banks and enjoy the gentle rapids flowing into deeper waters.
Directions from Friday Creek Retreat (20 min):
Turn right out of the FCR entrance onto Fridays Creek Rd. Turn Right onto S Island Loop Rd. Turn Left onto Upper Orara Rd., travel for 8.5km. Turn Left onto Coramba Rd., travel for 5.2km. Upon entering the town of Coramba continue to Gale St.. After 140 metres turn Right onto Martin Street or park in town and walk down to the River via Martin Street.
If you’re up for getting on the water instead of in it, local equipment hire and tour company C-Change Adventures offers kayaks and standup paddle boards (SUP) for hire. Hartley’s bridge is one of many put-in points for a leisurely journey down the beautiful Orara river.
Directions from Friday Creek Retreat to Hartley’s Bridge (20 min):
Turn right out of the FCR entrance onto Fridays Creek Rd. Turn Right onto S Island Loop Rd. Turn Left onto Upper Orara Rd., stay on this road for 8.5km. Turn Left onto Coramba Rd., travel for 1.3km. Turn Left onto Hartleys Rd. The bridge put in point is about 1km on Hartleys Rd.
For those guests that are content with staying close to their cottage and opting for stillness instead of adventure, the retreat pool will leave you rejuvenated. Surrounded by valley views, manicured gardens and lounges with umbrellas to shade. There’s no shame in relaxing by the pool all summer’s day. No need to beat the crowds here, as use of the pool and facilities are only available for current guests of Friday Creek Retreat.
Please make sure to take care of these majestic places by practicing leave no trace principles. Pack it in and pack it out, dispose of waste properly, respect wildlife and be considerate of other visitors. So that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty.
There’s plenty more Coffs Hinterland and beyond activities and places to explore. And don’t forget we’re pet friendly too! Secure your extended getaway for summer, and take advantage of our current midweek special.
