Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
The 1892 timber jetty still anchors this harbour beach, its weathered pylons home to schools of bream and the occasional wobbegong shark visible in the clear shallows below. You can walk the full 315 metres out to the breakwater wall, where local fishermen set up camp chairs and bait buckets at first light. Behind you, the beach arcs gently northward, backed by Norfolk pines and the low-rise Jetty Strip precinct. The harbour location means minimal swell—toddlers splash in ankle-deep water while their parents spread towels on coarse golden sand. Mornings bring the pelican feeding show at 9 a.m., when dozens of the ungainly birds jostle for fish scraps at the marina's edge. By noon, the smell of frying fish drifts from the boardwalk cafés, mingling with sunscreen and seaweed. Unlike the open-ocean beaches north and south of town, Jetty Beach feels sheltered, almost lake-like. The breakwater keeps the southeastern swells at bay, and even in winter you'll find swimmers doing their morning laps parallel to the jetty. The water temperature hovers around 19°C in July, climbing to 24°C by February. Pack a mask—the jetty pylons create an impromptu snorkel trail where leatherjackets and luderick dart between encrusted posts.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Jetty Beach.
Photos
Jetty Beach is one of Coffs Harbour's safest swimming spots, particularly ideal for families. The beach is sheltered by the harbour breakwall, creating calm, protected waters with minimal waves and currents. Lifeguards patrol during peak seasons and school holidays. The gentle, shallow water near shore makes it perfect for young children. However, always swim between the red and yellow flags when lifeguards are on duty, and check local conditions as occasional jellyfish can appear during warmer months.
Jetty Beach is enjoyable year-round thanks to Coffs Harbour's subtropical climate. Summer (December-February) offers warm water temperatures around 23-26°C, ideal for swimming, though it's busiest then. Autumn and spring provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. Winter (June-August) is milder with temperatures around 17-20°C—still suitable for beach walks and activities. Early mornings offer calmer conditions and stunning sunrises, while the sheltered location ensures relatively consistent conditions regardless of season.
Jetty Beach is easily accessible in central Coffs Harbour, located at the end of High Street near the historic Jetty precinct. Multiple car parks are available along the beachfront and surrounding streets, including dedicated parking areas on Orlando Street and near the marina. Parking is a mix of free and metered spaces, with meters typically operating during peak times. The beach is also within walking distance from Coffs Harbour town centre and accessible via local bus routes that service the Jetty area.
The Jetty Beach precinct offers excellent facilities including public toilets, showers, and change rooms near the beach. The adjacent Jetty Strip features numerous cafes, restaurants, and takeaway outlets serving fresh seafood, fish and chips, and various cuisines. The Coffs Harbour Marina provides additional dining options. You'll find playgrounds, picnic areas with barbecue facilities, and grassed parklands perfect for families. Accommodation ranges from nearby motels and holiday apartments to the prominent Pacific Bay Resort, all within walking distance of the beach.
Yes, the historic 292-metre Jetty extending from Jetty Beach is open to the public for walking. Built in 1892, it's an iconic Coffs Harbour landmark offering excellent opportunities for fishing, dolphin watching, and photography. The walk provides stunning harbour views and often sightings of marine life. Adjacent to the Jetty is a marina with boats and yachts, plus the Jetty Memorial Theatre. The surrounding precinct includes heritage buildings, markets on some weekends, and interpretive displays about the area's timber industry history.
