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Top 10 things to do in sawtell, discover the best things to do in the unique village of sawtell.

With its pristine waterways, picture-perfect beach and the delicious eateries framed by the iconic fig trees, it’s easy to whittle away time in Sawtell. Whether you’re lucky enough to be local or simply visiting Sawtell for the weekend, this dynamic little town is packed full of wonderful activities and delivers something for everyone. Learn all about Sawtell and it’s many hidden gems throughout this article.

1. Get the heart pumping with a headland walk

There’s nothing better than exploring Sawtell in its entirety with a bird’s eye view. Start your walk at Boambee Headland Lookout where you’ll have a beautiful view of Coffs Harbour and Muttonbird Island. From here, follow the path down to the beach and continue along the main stretch. You will no doubt see plenty of surfers and swimmers in your travels. At the end of the beach, you’ll reach the base of Bonville Headland where a path leads you up to the lookout point. Soak up the panorama to the south over the rock pool, Bonville Estuary and Bongil Bongil National Park and unrivalled views of the coastline. On a clear day, you can see as far as South West Rocks.

2. Magical morning views with a side of coffee

For over 80 years the Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club has been the ideal spot to take in Sawtell’s two kilometres stretch of beach bliss. As one of the main access points to the beach, the lawn and the beachside timber deck deliver a gorgeous vista with Boambee Headland to your north and Bonville Headland to the south. At the surf club, grab a coffee or bite to eat at the recently opened, The Kiosk.

3. Take a dip in the Sawtell Memorial Rock Pool

There’s no better way to cool off after your headland walk than with a dip in Sawtell’s very own rock pool. Created more than 50 years ago, this much-loved local landmark is one of just a few ocean pools on the mid-north coast. The pool is built into the headland and offers great protection from the rip that runs out past the pool from the mouth of Bonville Creek. With ocean temperatures fairly mild all year round, the pool is perfect in springtime.

4. Surf at Sawtell’s stunning beaches

Depending on the wind direction, you’re bound to score a wave at one of Sawtell’s iconic beaches. With two headlands on offer, there’s always a protected spot to surf. Bonville Headland is a popular surfing location as well and you’ll also find keen surfers at Sawtell’s main beach.

Naturopath Nalia Kirkaldy has long relied on natural remedies and supplements for her family’s health. As the new owner of Go Vita Coffs Central, she’s excited to offer the same level of care to all customers. Coastbeat chatted with Nalia about her passion for natural health and got some tips on how to fight cold [...]

5. A novice surfer? Have a lesson with Sawtell Surf School

Whether you’ve surfed a little before or are a complete beginner, the team at Sawtell Surf School will get you up and on a wave before you’ve even had time to fret about falling off! The highly qualified and friendly instructors will give you an authentic taste of surfing, useful safety information on waves and the beach, and a top time! So be sure to give it a try. The school runs private and group lessons.

6. Indulge in Sawtell’s amazing café scene

Along with the magnificent fig trees, the streets of Sawtell are lined with a plethora of cafés and restaurants offering some of the finest food on the coast.  Coastbeat  favourites include  Treeo , Boomtown 2452,  Zest  and  Split Café & Espresso Bar . For the sweet tooth, try Treeo’s Nutella French toast (delicious!). Zest’s salt and pepper squid is also delicious and it’s hard to go past Split’s smashed avocado, dukkah spices and poached eggs! If you’re after a quick takeaway to enjoy under the shady fig trees, grab a yummy burger from  Village Takeaway  or pop across the road to  Sea Salt Fish & Chips .

Find out more about another tasty local eatery, the  new Hilltop Store here .

7. Have a picnic lunch at Boronia Park

If you’re more of an outdoors type, there’s nothing better than a picnic lunch at Boronia Park. Arguably one of Sawtell’s most popular picnic spots, Boronia Park is located on Boronia Street at the base of Bonville Headland. It features barbecues, picnic tables and chairs as well as a children’s playground. It’s also in close proximity to Bonville Creek – popular for swimming and fishing.

8. See a movie at Sawtell Cinema

Sawtell Cinema is an iconic part of this beachside village and is quaint, charming and historic in nature. Dating back to 1941, the Sawtell Cinema has had its challenges over the years – temporarily closing at one stage – but remains a thriving and proud part of the Sawtell community. From its unique décor, extra soft seats and glorious old-world feel, there’s no better way to take in the latest releases. Find out more about the  Sawtell Cinema here.

9. Enjoy boutique shopping

Did someone say shopping? You heard right, not only has Sawtell got the beach and café life sorted, but it’s also great for fashion and homewares with several beautiful boutiques sprawled along the main street. For the latest clothing, shoes, and accessories,  Coastbeat  loves First Avenue Boutique and Miss Minnie’s Boutique. You can also pick up some vintage homewares from the local op shop.

10. Attend a workshop at Sawtell Art Group or see an exhibition

Fancy yourself a budding Picasso? Why not try your hand at one of Sawtell Art Group’s regular classes or workshops? Classes cover a range of different styles and skills from oils and acrylic landscapes, to paint pouring, watercolour and drawing techniques. If you’d rather see art than create it, the regular exhibitions on offer may be more your speed.

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Located 10km south of Coffs Harbour, Sawtell is a vibrant little town with more than its fair share of cool cafes, galleries and boutique shopping. Flanked by idyllic beaches and wilderness where koalas nestle in the branches, it makes for a perfect seaside escape with a touch of class.

Sawtell highlights

Beach culture .

Bordered by two headlands – both perfect vantage points to spot migrating whales - Sawtell Beach is a picturesque patrolled beach, sheltered by an offshore island and rocky reef which creates a popular surf break. Learn to surf with Solitary Islands Surf School ; or take a dip in the rockpool at the base of Bonville Headland. At the front of the Surf Club is a new café, The Kiosk, the perfect place to soak up the sun over a morning coffee. 

Lifeguard tower, Sawtell Beach - Credit: Rob Cleary

South of the town is the Bongil Bongil National Park , featuring wild beaches and tranquil waterways where you can paddle a kayak with C-Change Adventures . Relax with a picnic at the Bongil Picnic Area , keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife such as koalas and swamp wallabies; or take the Bundagaree Rainforest Walk or Bluff Loop Walking Track , which both wind through rainforest behind the sand dunes. The colourful birdlife in Bongil Bongil is remarkable, and there are breeding grounds for migratory birds such as the endangered little tern. 

One of the most popular spots for kids to play at is Boambee Creek Reserve , where you can kayak, paddleboard, swim and paddle in the shallow waters. There’s also a great playground in the reserve, and it’s dog-friendly.  

Reflections Boambee Creek Reserve , Sawtell

Wine & dine 

Shaded by iconic Moreton Bay figs, First Street in Sawtell is a sophisticated strip lined with alfresco cafes, restaurants and boutiques. Local favourites include the all-day breakfast at Treeo ; the Hilltop Store , helmed by former chefs from Aria in Sydney; Lime for delicious Mexican and cocktails; and Sea Salt Fish and Chips, serving local wild-caught fish. 

Group of friends enjoying Lime Mexican Sawtell , Sawtell

Getting there

Sawtell is an easy 15min drive south of Coffs Harbour and a 5.5-hour drive north from  Sydney . Qantas has direct flights to Coffs Harbour from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane; while Rex flies daily from Sydney to Coffs Harbour Monday to Friday with select scheduled flights over the weekend. Link Airways operates direct flights between Coffs Harbour and Brisbane six days a week [*NB – flight days may vary]. 

Sawtell Beach , North Coast - Credit: Rob Cleary

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Top Things to Do in Sawtell

Things to do in sawtell.

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• Good for Kids
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• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Boambee Headland

2. Boambee Creek Reserve

3. The Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival

4. Sawtell Surf School

What travellers are saying

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• Boambee Headland
• Sawtell Surf School

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Plan Your Trip to Sawtell: Best of Sawtell Tourism

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Top Things to Do in Sawtell, Australia

Things to do in sawtell.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Boambee Headland

2. Boambee Creek Reserve

3. The Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival

4. Sawtell Surf School

What travellers are saying

• Boambee Creek Reserve
• Boambee Headland
• Sawtell Surf School

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• Sawtell Itineraries
• Sawtell Hotels

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Best Things To Do in Sawtell, Australia

Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Sawtell.

Sawtell may not be as popular as other cities in Australia, but don’t let that fool you. Sawtell is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.

You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Sawtell.

If you have plans to visit Australia and are not sure if Sawtell should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Sawtell and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.

Tourist Attractions in Sawtell

Here is the list of things to do in Sawtell and tourist attractions in city.

Sawtell Memorial Rock Pool

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• Things to do in Port Macquarie
• Things to do in Armidale
• Things to do in Grafton
• Things to do in Nambucca Heads
• Things to do in Dorrigo
• What to do in Sawtell in 1 day
• What to do in Sawtell in 2 days

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Sawtell Beach

Sawtell is a beachside community boasting a variety of visitor attractions including the main surf beach which is home to the Sawtell Surf Club.

About this location

Sawtell Beach, Sawtell NSW 2452

• Does not cater for people with access needs
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Coming off Sawtell Headland

Surfing at Sawtell Beach

Sawtell Beach Drone shot

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Simply Perfect

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Sawtell is... simply perfect. Our beautiful beachside village has everything to offer, whether you plan to stay for a day, a week... or forever. Sawtell is a coastal town situated on the north coast of NSW Australia, surrounded by beautiful beaches, creeks and mountains and located almost centrally between Brisbane and Sydney. The 75yr old iconic fig trees shade picturesque First Avenue, with its collection of shops, boutiques, cafes, licensed restaurants, a beautiful cinema, and recreational clubs and an award winning hotel just to name a few. Sawtell is home to renowned surfing spots, safe patrolled beaches as well as a host of sporting and recreation including golf, bowls, tennis, croquet, mountain biking and fishing. So when you are ready... we have everything ready for you.

Helping business, is our business.

The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving our local community and collaborating with the businesses of Sawtell to support and promote new ideas.

We have a diverse and active membership representing a wide cross-section of large and small businesses. The Chamber is a non-profit organisation, run by a volunteer Board of Directors available to you to provide advice, assistance, or clarity on commercial interests of our area

We are firmly established as the voice of local business with Coffs Harbour City Council and other governing bodies and our primary focus is to promote trade, industry, commerce, and to encourage and support business-to-business opportunities within the local region.

Live Local - Love Local

Sawtell Business

Sawtell is home to world class, award winning business and industry.

Members of our local business community and chamber of commerce pride themselves on providing the highest quality service to Sawtell locals and visitors alike.

Discover some of the amazing businesses in the Sawtell community.

2 July 2022

6 July 2024

Things are heating up....

The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the annual Sawtell Chilli Festival, now in its 25th year.

On the first Saturday in July, picturesque First Avenue is transformed into a carvinal of all things hot and spicy.

Attracting over 13,000 people on the day, the Chilli Festival features over 100 chilli related stalls. The festival offers a variety of foods and flavours from some of Australia’s leading chilli product manufacturers as well as our local restaurants and cafes showcasing their own famous cuisine.

Warm up your taste buds.. and see you in July!!!

To find out more visit the Sawtell Chilli Festival site.

What's on in Sawtell

Click on Event for more details

Sawtell Street Party

25 Jan 2024 - 5:00 PM

Sawtell - NSW

"Join us for a celebration at the Sawtell Street Party! Indulge in delectable street food, delight your senses with live music, and watch your children's faces light up with joy as they enjoy entertaining activities and face painting. It's an event where community comes alive – come together for a day of fun, flavor, and festivities!"

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Beautiful Sawtell

Nestled between Boambee and Bonville Creeks, just south of Coffs Harbour, Sawtell is a haven for golden beaches, fishing, golfing, swimming, surfing, boating, adventure and camping.

Our village centre boasts a picturesque shopping precinct. Under the canopy of 70-year-old fig trees, Sawtell reveals an eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, boutiques, spas, retail shops, bars and hotels to perfectly cater to your retail therapy and relaxation.

Surrounded by safe surf beaches to the east, unspoilt waterways and National Parks to the north and south, and scenic mountain ranges in the west. This unique geographic location makes Sawtell a natural beauty.

Take a deep dive into the beauty, culture and treasures of Sawtell...

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Vision and Passion

The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting Sawtell as not only a world-class tourist destination but as a flourishing business and industry hub and a beautiful place to live, raise a family or just relax and enjoy the simple things in life. If you are new to Sawtell in business, we would love you to be a part of our active and motivated Chamber of Commerce. We offer valuable networking opportunities at our meetings on the third Monday of each month, held at the Sawtell RSL Club, and provide support across a wide range of areas. Please hit the button below to become a member of our Chamber of Commerce and let us grow together. Also please head to our contact page, we would love to hear from you, if you have thoughts or ideas on keeping Sawtell...

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All the latest news, events and cool things happening, in our beautiful village of Sawtell!

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DISCOVER SAWTELL

THE BEST Family & Kid Activities in Sawtell

Things to do in sawtell with kids.

• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Boambee Headland

2. Boambee Creek Reserve

Top Things to Do in Sawtell

Things to do in sawtell.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Boambee Headland

2. Boambee Creek Reserve

3. The Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival

4. Sawtell Surf School

What travellers are saying

• Boambee Creek Reserve
• Boambee Headland
• Sawtell Surf School