A NSW north coast adventure with Reflections Holiday Parks
Spring is indeed a time for tourers to dust off the winter chills, prepare their vans and embark on a journey to their favourite coastal locations to relax in the sunshine and enjoy outdoor activities.
One of the largest accommodation providers in New South Wales, Reflections Holiday Parks boasts 37 holiday parks with two unique stay environments — choose between the 27 parks located along the pristine coastline or the 10 inland — and this time of year they are popular destinations for tourers and families alike.
From Eden on the South Coast to Brunswick Heads on the North Coast, Reflections are in some of the most sought-after beachside havens and captivating landscapes in NSW. Each park gives guests a range of nature-based activities in which to take part, a convenient hub from which to explore the quaint coastal towns or nearby iconic destinations, as well as the opportunity to rest, relax and soak in the sun.
Whether it’s watching whales on their annual migration, fishing, surfing, birdwatching, swimming, stargazing, hiking, or relaxing by the ocean with some local fish and chips, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Once they have found their piece of sun-soaked paradise, Reflections’ guests often return year after year, bringing multigenerational family groups with them to enjoy their special holidays together. With a ‘life’s better outside’ ethos, guests say that they enjoy the stunning scenery and the opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities that the parks offer — disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with friends, family and nature.
No matter what kind of tourer you are, Reflections' range of accommodation options will have you covered. These include:
Powered, unpowered and ensuite sites
Beach houses and unique accommodation
- Tiny homes
- A range of cabins, from deluxe to budget options
- Glamping tents
So, pack your bag, get your rig ready and join us as we explore the northern NSW coast with a choice of many Reflections at which to stay along the way.
The Mid North Coast
Reflections North Haven
Nestled between Laurieton and Camden Head on the NSW Mid North Coast, Reflections North Haven is a short drive (30 minutes) from Port Macquarie and a four-hour drive north of Sydney. This park sits on about 15 acres of shady bushland and it’s a great location from which to explore all the local region has to offer. This includes the nearby golden sands and pet-friendly Grants Beach, where you can go for a surf or just take a leisurely stroll. Relax and unwind as you enjoy the local pleasures of the region’s extensive fish-rich waterways, national parks and beach-to-beach walking paths and bikeways. North Haven and Laurieton communities have an array of restaurants, cafes, clubs, pubs and a retro-style local cinema. Club North Haven is within walking distance and there is a regular courtesy bus for a safe trip back to camp.
Things to do:
Grants Beach Coastal Walk
For a more tranquil beach experience, consider taking a leisurely walk along the Grants Beach Coastal Walk, which stretches north–south for about 3.5km, running parallel to the beach through lush forest and heathland.
Perpendicular Point
Perpendicular Point is a great spot and a favourite among locals and visitors, featuring a viewing platform for whale watching. As you wander through the shaded grove on this short walk, you'll emerge at the lookout point, where you can enjoy panoramic views to the north towards Port Macquarie, to the south towards Diamond Head and southwest towards the dramatic North Brother Mountain in Dooragan National Park.
Birdwatching
Twitchers will see plenty of birdlife as honeyeaters come in to feed off the banksias and glossy black cockatoos nibble at the black she-oaks. If you're a native flower lover, this easy walk is a must in early spring. You’ll see boronia, flannel flowers, everlasting daisies and wedding bushes dotted among the bushes.
Rainforest Loop Track
Located in Dooragan National Park (an easy 15-minute drive from the park), this relaxed walk features a small remote lookout platform that offers views over Diamond Head. On the southern side of the loop, the rainforest — with its suspended gallery of bird’s nest ferns, as well as orchids and other plants — immerses you in an amazing green cathedral.
If walking or surfing is not your thing, how about a swim, a relaxed morning of beach fishing or exploring the area by bike or kayak?
The Coffs Coast
Reflections Moonee Beach
As you continue your journey north along the Coffs Coast, approximately a two-hour drive north of North Haven, you'll come across Reflections Moonee Beach, a haven for fishing and surfing enthusiasts. With the hinterland close to the coast, there are abundant adventures to be had in close proximity.
Reflections Moonee Beach offers excellent facilities and amenities, including:
A spacious enclosed camp kitchen overlooking the clear water
- Firepits
- A community ping pong table
- Tennis courts
- Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) and kayak rentals
Additionally, Moonee Beach Hotel is just a short walk away. It’s the ideal spot for the whole family, with a putt-putt course, indoor TV/activity room, outdoor play equipment and fabulous food options. The hotel is also pet-friendly, making it convenient for visitors travelling with their dogs.
Things to do:
Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours
Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours provide thrilling excursions for guests to embark on: paddle tours, acquire Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) skills, savour seasonal bush foods and gain insight into traditional bush medicines.
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Take a stroll to Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, also known as Giibany Miirlarl, where you can revel in the blue skies and breathtaking views spanning from the coastline to the surrounding islands.
Moonee Market Shopping Centre
This local shopping centre is a short walk from Reflections Moonee Beach and offers more than 29 stores to explore, including a cafe and bakery for some indulgent treats, a supermarket and a selection of other specialty stores.
Reflections Corindi Beach
Next up, just a convenient 20-minute drive from Moonee Beach, you'll find Reflections Corindi Beach. This pet-friendly, laid-back destination is not only welcoming but also stunningly beautiful. It boasts spacious and easily accessible sites, making it a perfect hub for you to fully immerse yourself in all that this region has to offer.
Things to do:
Woolgoola Beach and Headland
On the way, stop at Woolgoolga Beach and Headland, also known as ‘Woopi’, which is renowned for its swimming, surfing, fishing, diving and snorkelling. Between May and October Woopi also boasts the best whale watching in the Coffs region, so be sure to take your binoculars for a bird’s eye view of these magnificent creatures as they meander past.
Up on the Woolgoolga Headland, you’ll find scenic walking tracks and jaw-dropping coastal views that stretch to Yuraygir National Park and the dunes and rolling hills of the Coffs Coast and hinterland.
Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Coffs Coast
Check out the nearby Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which offers cultural activities including bush tucker tasting and cultural tours. From here you can explore more of the stunning Coffs Coast with its world-famous attractions, events, delicious food and wine, shopping and endless natural delights.
Grafton
Enjoy a 40-minute detour north to check out Grafton and its historic buildings, idyllic location on the Clarence River and its many Jacaranda trees — a particular delight during the annual Jacaranda Festival (27 October – 5 November 2023).
The Far North Coast
Reflections Evans Head
Departing from Corindi Beach, a picturesque 1.5-hour drive will lead you to Reflections Evans Head on the stunning Far North Coast of New South Wales. Nestled in the relaxed beach town of Evans Head, a 35-minute drive south of Ballina, this destination is renowned for being one of the North Coast's premier holiday spots. It's also among the largest holiday parks in Australia, offering a wide range of options, from spacious caravan and camping sites to luxurious high-end cabin accommodations.
Situated at the heart of town, the park is a short stroll away from everything the charming Evans Head township has to offer. This includes an array of entertainment options and shopping opportunities. If you're travelling with a furry companion, you'll be pleased to discover that the Illawong Hotel, located directly across from the park, boasts a dog-friendly beer garden where you can spend quality time with your four-legged friend. Additionally, the RSL and the bowling club are conveniently adjacent to the park. Those with a sweet tooth should pay a visit to Wurlitzer Bakery, renowned for its delightful pastries and pies.
Evans Head and Main Beach connect seamlessly with the park, providing guests with effortless access to the water from their campsites and cabins, making it the perfect destination for those who wish to relish in the coastal beauty and local amenities.
Things to do:
Airforce Beach
If you have a passion for 4WD adventures, nearby Airforce Beach is the perfect place to indulge in some offroad driving (no permits required).
Chinamans Beach
Nature enthusiasts will love the scenic 1.5-hour nature walk to Chinamans Beach, which boasts stunning coastal scenery.
Evans Head Heritage Aviation Museum
Another must-visit attraction is the Evans Head Heritage Aviation Museum, often referred to as the F111 Museum, where you can explore a rich history of aviation heritage and learn about the fascinating world of aircraft.
Reflections Shaws Bay
Just a 40-minute drive north of East Ballina brings you to Reflections Shaws Bay, conveniently located two hours south of Brisbane. Nestled on the serene banks of Shaws Bay, it offers picturesque views of the Richmond River and easy access to renowned surf beaches.
Things to do:
Outdoor delights
Enjoy swimming in the calm waters, fishing in the river, walking your dog along dog-friendly beaches or exploring Ballina's extensive 25km cycle paths. You can also indulge in surfing, hiking, boating and paddling.
Shaws Bay Hotel
Affectionately known as ‘The Shawsy’, this iconic hotel offers a fantastic dining experience in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The Shawsy is conveniently located right next to the park, so you can walk over to enjoy to enjoy a lovely meal as you watch the sun set over the ocean.
Explore Ballina
Ballina itself is a bustling holiday town with a variety of activities to enjoy, such as visiting the dog-friendly Spit beach and exploring the restaurants, clubs and shops on River Street.
Reflections Ferry Reserve
Located 30 minutes up the coast from Shaws Bay, you’ll find Reflections Ferry Reserve. It’s found on the edge of Brunswick Heads, a delightful village that exudes a laid-back atmosphere. This park serves as an excellent starting point for your exploration of the broader Far North Coast region. You can visit Byron Bay for boutique shopping, savour fresh seafood in Ballina and discover the waterfalls, rainforests and national parks in the neighbouring hinterland towns.
Things to do:
Cape Byron Walking Track
If you're a fan of hiking, the Cape Byron Walking Track offers a rich experience, but be prepared to spend a good two hours to fully appreciate the area's natural beauty and sites. This 3.7km loop guides you through lush rainforests and along scenic clifftops, providing spectacular views of both the ocean and the hinterland.
Cape Byron Lighthouse
En route, you’ll wander through the shade of Bangalow Palms and ancient Burrawangs, across kangaroo grasslands, along beautiful beaches and up to Cape Byron Lighthouse, which stands resolute on the easternmost point of Australia. If you’d prefer an easier walk, the track can be accessed at numerous points and walked in shorter sections.
Enjoy the water
Reflections Ferry Reserve is right on the Brunswick River with direct river access and a boat ramp making it easy for paddlers, boaters and anglers to explore the river’s edge and indulge in the relaxed, sun-soaked atmosphere.
Start planning your next adventure
The northern NSW coastline is a great place for adventures of all kinds, and we hope you’ve enjoyed this guide on how best to enjoy it and the many Reflections Holiday Parks that provide the perfect basecamps along the way.
If you’ve been inspired to start planning your next coastal adventure, join the Reflections Rewards Club for free and you’ll receive a $25 guest credit plus other great rewards (T&Cs apply).
Contact information
For further information about current deals or Rewards Club membership, visit the Reflections website.
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