The Big Banana

The Big Banana Review

Just north of the city, impossible to miss, is the Big Banana—the symbol of Coffs Harbour. This monumental piece of kitsch has stood at the site since 1964. It welcomes visitors to the Big Banana complex, which takes a fascinating look at the past, present, and future of horticulture. There's a multimedia display called "World of Bananas" and a walkway that meanders through the banana plantations and banana packing shed. A lookout high on the plantation hill provides great views to the coast, and is a good whale-watching vantage point July-November. The park also includes toboggan rides (A$5), a waterslide (A$16 for 1.5 hours), and an ice-skating rink (A$14.50). There's a café on the premises, as well as the Banana Barn, which sells the park's own jams, pickles, and fresh tropical fruit.