In addition to beaches, the Mid North Coast of New South Wales is home to national parks, state forests, and several lake systems and major rivers. Outdoor adventurers and watersport enthusiasts enjoy hiking, jet boating, parasailing, deep sea fishing, scuba diving, and beach and estuary fishing.
Forster and Tuncurry are twin towns situated on different sides of Wallis Lake. Most dolphin watching, whale watching, and scuba diving cruises depart from Forster while Tuncurry is known for its fishing co-op that provides fresh oysters. Port Macquarie, site of Billabong Zoo: Koala & Wildlife Park, offers Camel Safaris along the sands of Lighthouse Beach.
Coffs Harbour is renowned as the banana capital of New South Wales. The Big Banana, a banana-themed amusement park, is a popular tourist attraction. Cruises depart from the city to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, and for more marine life fun, Dolphin Marine Magic offers an opportunity to swim with dolphins and seals.
National parks feature a variety of landscapes and activities. Dorrigo National Park shows off Crystal Shower Falls and Lyrebird Link Track, a great area for birdwatching. Nymboi-Binderay National Park caters to kayaking and white-water rafting enthusiasts while Hat Head National Park invites campers to its beachside facilities.
Several museums are located on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. Port Macquarie Astronomical Association Observatory, Kempsey Museum, Eliza and Joseph Newman Folk Museum, and Headland Historical Museum offer interesting displays. Mary Boulton's Pioneer Cottage is a replica of an early settler’s home.
Jetty Memorial Theatre and Manning Entertainment Centre offer live theater performances ranging from classic plays to holiday concerts. The Glasshouse is home to a theatre, regional gallery, and heritage displays. Historic Bowraville Theatre features current movies and The Players Theatre provides community sponsored entertainment.
Forest Sky Pier showcases a dramatic view of the Mid North Coast. The lookout pier is 15 metres high and extends out 21 metres. The region is a scenic paradise that offers many venues and attractions.