Surf Away Holiday at Arrawarra, NSW Australia

Posted: 24 June 2026

Where the Australian surf lifestyle meets a laid‑back coastal escape

Arrawarra, on the NSW Mid North Coast, is one of those rare places that still feels like a secret. Tucked between Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay, it is a small quiet beachfront village that offers long stretches of white sand, gentle rolling waves, and a relaxed coastal rhythm that draws travellers from around the world.

It’s the kind of destination where mornings begin with the sound of the ocean, days drift between surf sessions and coastal walks, and evenings settle into campfires, sunsets and star‑filled skies.

For anyone dreaming of a surf‑inspired holiday, Arrawarra delivers the perfect blend of nature, adventure and surf breaks.

Surfing at Arrawarra

Arrawarra is famous for its gentle, learner‑friendly waves, making it one of the best places on the NSW coast to learn to surf. The beach offers long, rolling green waves perfect for practising paddling, pop‑ups and balance.

More experienced surfers will find nearby a range of great surf breaks. The area is also protected from large southerly swells, making it a reliable spot for longboarding and year‑round surf sessions.

Mojo Surf School – ASI Accredited Surf School

Arrawarra is home to Mojo Surf School’s Spot X Surf Camp, an ASI Accredited Surf School known internationally for its surf‑and‑stay programs.

Travellers can join:

· Daily learn‑to‑surf lessons with ASI‑qualified instructors

· Intermediate coaching to improve technique, timing and confidence

· Multi‑day surf camps combining lessons, accommodation and meals

· Longer surf development programs for those wanting deeper progression

· Instructor training pathways for travellers aiming to become ASI surfing instructors

Facilities at the camp include beachfront accommodation, surf equipment, social spaces, hammocks, a movie room, a camp kitchen, a café, and evening campfires — all just steps from the sand.

Mojo Surf School offers the perfect way to experience Arrawarra’s surf culture: safe, supportive, social and unforgettable.

What to Do

Arrawarra is best known for its surf, but the region offers plenty to explore beyond the waves.

Coastal Walks & Lookouts

· Wander the Arrawarra Headland for sweeping ocean views and seasonal whale watching.

· Explore the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, a spectacular trail linking beaches, forests and marine viewpoints.

Nature & Wildlife

· Visit the Solitary Islands Marine Park, home to dolphins, turtles and vibrant underwater life.

· Spot kangaroos around the dunes and bushland near the beach.

Adventure & Activities

· Kayaking, surf rafting and stand‑up paddling

· Snorkelling and swimming in sheltered coves

· Scenic drives through national parks and hinterland forests

Nearby Towns

· Woolgoolga: relaxed cafés, multicultural dining, boutique shops and a friendly small‑town vibe.

· Coffs Harbour: the Big Banana Fun Park, Butterfly House, beaches, lookouts, water activities and family attractions.

· Dorrigo National Park: rainforest walks, waterfalls and dramatic escarpment scenery.

Arrawarra is a place where you can be as active or as relaxed as you like — surf in the morning, explore in the afternoon, unwind by the fire at night.

Where to Eat

If you’re staying at the surf camp, meals are included — hearty buffet‑style breakfasts, lunches and dinners designed to keep surfers fuelled. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten‑free options can be arranged.

For those exploring the region, nearby Coffs Harbour has one of the most diverse dining scenes on the NSW Mid North Coast, offering everything from relaxed beachfront cafés to fresh seafood, multicultural restaurants and family‑friendly favourites. Whether travellers want a casual bite after a day at the beach or a more polished dining experience, Coffs Harbour delivers plenty of choice.

Where to Stay

Arrawarra is a small, peaceful coastal community, so its accommodation style reflects the area’s natural, laid‑back character. Rather than large hotels or high‑rise resorts, Arrawarra offers beachfront holiday parks, surf‑camp stays, cabins and nature‑based accommodation — perfect for travellers who want to stay close to the ocean and enjoy a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

For travellers wanting the full surf‑lifestyle experience, staying on site at Spot X Surf Camp is a great option, with dorms, tipis and upgraded cabins available.

The coastline around Arrawarra and Coffs Harbour offers the full spectrum of accommodation styles. Whether travellers want 5‑star luxury, mid‑range comfort, budget motels, or backpacker hostels, the region caters to every style and budget.

The region also features boutique lodges and coastal retreats, often set in quieter pockets near beaches or rainforest.

Getting There

Arrawarra is easy to reach:

· Coffs Harbour Airport is 38–40 km away (approx. 30 minutes).

· NSW TrainLink services stop at Coffs Harbour.

· Greyhound Australia coaches run directly to Spot X Holiday Park.

· Approx. 3 hours south of the Gold Coast and 6 hours north of Sydney.

Why Holiday in Arrawarra?

Arrawarra offers everything travellers love about the Australian coast — surf, sunshine, nature and a relaxed beach lifestyle — without the crowds.

With its beachfront surf camp, ASI‑accredited surf school, coastal walks, wildlife, nearby towns and easy access to the Coffs Coast, it’s a destination that invites you to slow down, dive in and live the surf dream.