Fun Things to Do in Sawtell | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Sawtell Travel Guide
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Welcome to Sawtell! Located on the stunning New South Wales coast, this charming seaside town is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant surf culture, and laid-back atmosphere, Sawtell offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a nature enthusiast looking to explore the nearby national parks, a food lover eager to indulge in the local cuisine, or a beach bum seeking the perfect wave, Sawtell has something for everyone. With its picturesque landscapes, friendly locals, and a range of activities to suit all interests, Sawtell is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic Australian experience.
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Things To Do In Sawtell
Sawtell is a charming coastal town located on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. It offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Sawtell:
1. Explore the Beach: Sawtell is renowned for its stunning beaches, so make sure to spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Sawtell Beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing.
2. Visit Sawtell Headland: Take a leisurely stroll along the Sawtell Headland and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. This picturesque spot is perfect for whale watching during the migration season.
3. Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sawtell is known for its vibrant food scene, so be sure to sample some of the local delicacies. The main street, First Avenue, is lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops offering a variety of cuisines.
4. Explore Bongil Bongil National Park: Just a short drive from Sawtell, this national park is a nature lover's paradise. Bongil Bongil National Park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
5. Play a Round of Golf: Sawtell boasts a beautiful 18-hole golf course, Sawtell Golf Club, which is set amongst lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a challenging game while taking in the natural beauty.
6. Discover Sawtell Cinema: For a unique experience, catch a movie at the Sawtell Cinema. This heritage-listed cinema offers a cozy and intimate setting, showcasing a mix of mainstream and independent films.
7. Explore the Sawtell Art Gallery: Located in the heart of Sawtell, the Sawtell Art Gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks by local and regional artists. Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art.
8. Enjoy Water Sports: Sawtell is a great destination for water sports enthusiasts. You can try your hand at kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or fishing in the nearby estuaries and rivers.
9. Attend the Sawtell Chilli Festival: If you happen to visit Sawtell in July, don't miss the annual Sawtell Chilli Festival.
Tours And Activities In Sawtell
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Best Time To Visit Sawtell
The best time to visit Sawtell is during the spring and autumn seasons, which fall between September and November and March and May, respectively. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The summer months of December to February can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. Winter, which spans from June to August, is generally cool and dry, with temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F). However, it is important to note that Sawtell is a popular tourist destination, so it can get crowded during school holidays and long weekends. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn to avoid large crowds and enjoy the pleasant weather.
Flight Calendar For Sawtell
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Best Areas To Stay In Sawtell
Sawtell is a charming coastal town located on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. It offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Sawtell:
1. Sawtell Beach: This area is perfect for beach lovers as it offers easy access to the stunning Sawtell Beach. Accommodation options here include beachfront resorts, holiday apartments, and cozy beach houses. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking ocean views, relax on the sandy shores, and indulge in water activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing.
2. Sawtell Village: The heart of Sawtell, the village area is known for its vibrant atmosphere and charming streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Accommodation options in this area range from boutique hotels to bed and breakfasts. Staying in Sawtell Village allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy delicious cuisine, and explore the unique shops and galleries.
3. Boambee Creek: Situated just south of Sawtell, Boambee Creek offers a tranquil setting surrounded by nature. Accommodation options in this area include holiday homes and cabins nestled among the lush greenery. Boambee Creek is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat, with opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching, and kayaking in the nearby creek.
4. Bonville: Located a short drive inland from Sawtell, Bonville is known for its picturesque countryside and world-class golf courses. Accommodation options in Bonville include luxury resorts and golf retreats. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf, explore the scenic countryside, and indulge in fine dining experiences.
5. Toormina: Situated just north of Sawtell, Toormina offers a range of affordable accommodation options such as motels and budget hotels. This area is ideal for those looking for a convenient base to explore Sawtell and its surrounding attractions. Toormina is also home to shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
Overall, Sawtell offers a diverse range of accommodation options in various areas, catering to different preferences and interests. Whether you prefer beachfront luxury, village charm, natural serenity, or affordability, Sawtell has something to offer for every traveler.
Hotels Map Of Sawtell
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Transportation To Sawtell
There are several transportation options to Sawtell.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Sawtell is Coffs Harbour Airport (CFS), which is approximately a 10-minute drive away. Several domestic airlines operate flights to Coffs Harbour from major cities in Australia.
2. By Car: Sawtell is easily accessible by car. It is located on the Pacific Highway (A1), which is the main coastal road connecting Sydney and Brisbane. The drive from Sydney takes around 5-6 hours, while the drive from Brisbane takes around 4 hours.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services that connect Sawtell with other major cities in Australia. Greyhound Australia and Premier Motor Service are two popular bus operators that serve this route.
4. By Train: Sawtell does not have a train station. However, the nearby city of Coffs Harbour has a train station, and regular train services operate from Sydney and Brisbane to Coffs Harbour. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Sawtell.
5. By Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available in Sawtell and can be used for local transportation or to/from nearby cities and towns.
Once in Sawtell, there are also local transportation options such as buses, taxis, and rental cars available for getting around the town and exploring the surrounding areas.
Nearby Destination From Sawtell
1. Coffs Harbour - A vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and the iconic Big Banana.
2. Bellingen - A charming town nestled in the picturesque Bellinger Valley, famous for its arts and cultural scene.
3. Urunga - A peaceful riverside village where the Bellinger and Kalang rivers meet the ocean, offering stunning natural beauty.
4. Nambucca Heads - A coastal town with pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for fishing and water activities.
5. Dorrigo - A scenic mountain town surrounded by World Heritage-listed rainforests, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
6. Woolgoolga - A multicultural beachside town known for its Indian community and delicious curry dishes.
7. Macksville - A historic riverside town with a rich heritage and a charming main street lined with boutique shops and cafes.
8. Sandy Beach - A quiet coastal village with a stunning beach, ideal for swimming, surfing, and relaxing.
9. Repton - A small riverside village with a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
10. Coramba - A quaint rural village surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, offering a peaceful escape from city life.