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The Big Banana

The Big Banana

The Big Banana — Iconic roadside attraction in Coffs Harbour, opened in 1964.

Attraction · Big Thing in New South Wales

Jake MitchellWritten by Jake Mitchell

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About The Big Banana

Iconic roadside attraction in Coffs Harbour, opened in 1964. One of Australia's first and most famous Big Things, featuring a fun park with water slides, ice skating, and toboggan rides alongside banana-themed exhibits.

About

Iconic roadside attraction in Coffs Harbour, opened in 1964. One of Australia's first and most famous Big Things, featuring a fun park with water slides, ice skating, and toboggan rides alongside banana-themed exhibits.

History & Significance

Opened in 1964, The Big Banana was one of Australia's first and most iconic roadside Big Things. Built to promote the local banana growing industry, it became a legendary stop on the Pacific Highway. The site has evolved to include a fun park with rides whilst maintaining its original banana-themed attractions and exhibits.

Getting There

Map of The Big Banana

Located on the Pacific Highway (Hwy 1) in Coffs Harbour, about 430 km north of Sydney. Easy highway access; on the main north-south route. Local buses service the area but a car is most practical.

Parking

Free on-site parking available with good capacity for cars, coaches, and caravans. Wheelchair accessible parking provided. Overflow parking adjacent to main area.

Visitor Tips

  • Arrive early (9-10am) to avoid crowds and queues on rides
  • Water slides and toboggan are most popular — do these first
  • Bring swimwear and towels if planning water slide rides
  • Allow 2-3 hours for a full visit including rides and photo stops
  • Ice skating and toboggan rides have separate charges beyond entry

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
National

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
2-3 hours
Best Time
September to November (spring) or March to May (autumn) for mild weather. Summer (Dec-Feb) is hot and crowded. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Visit mid-morning to avoid opening crowds.
Hours
Generally daily 9am-5pm. Hours vary by season and activity.

Good to Know

Wheelchair AccessibleAll ages; rides have varying height restrictions (toboggan and water slides best for ages 5+)

Highlights

Giant BananaToboggan RidesIce SkatingWaterslidesCandy Making

Activities

RidesPhotography

Family & Visitor Info

Ages
All ages; rides have varying height restrictions (toboggan and water slides best for ages 5+)
Shade/Cover
Moderate shade
Pram Friendly
Yes
Lockers
Available

Food & Drink

CafePicnic AreaBYO Food OK

Cafe on-site for drinks and light meals; BYO picnic and picnic areas available

Features

Available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Available:Lockers Available

Facilities

ParkingToiletsCafeGift Shop

Nearby

Dump Points(5)

2.2km

Coffs Harbour Moonee Street Tourist Park

caravan-park · 2.2km

5.1km

Coffs Harbour Dump Point

Free · 5.1km

25.3km

Arrawarra Rest Area

Free · 25.3km

26.2km

Urunga Recreation Reserve

Free · 26.2km

27.8km

Bellingen Showground

Free · 27.8km

Nearby

Dump Points(5)

2.2km

Coffs Harbour Moonee Street Tourist Park

caravan-park · 2.2km

5.1km

Coffs Harbour Dump Point

Free · 5.1km

25.3km

Arrawarra Rest Area

Free · 25.3km

26.2km

Urunga Recreation Reserve

Free · 26.2km

27.8km

Bellingen Showground

Free · 27.8km