Nothing captures the spirit of New South Wales quite like the Big Banana, a larger-than-life theme park celebrating the state's favourite fruit. The attraction is set in a working banana plantation and greets visitors with a 13-metre-long, five-metre-high banana.

The park is an iconic stop along the Coffs Coast and lures visitors in with its array of family-friendly attractions, including four thrilling water slides that reach speeds of up to 60 kilometres per hour. You can tee off on the miniature golf course, ice skate on the indoor rink and play a game of laser tag. Other highlights include a cheesemaking workshop, opal centre and candy kitchen.

For a glimpse at the state's flourishing banana industry, catch an educational movie at the on-site theatre. Sessions include a short plantation walk and a glimpse at the enormous banana packing stations. Feeling hungry? Stock up on banana pancakes, banana splits, banana smoothies and banana ice cream at the on-site cafe.

Getting there

The Big Banana is halfway between Sydney and Brisbane on the Pacific Highway. The park is a 10-minute drive from Coffs Harbour and two hours from Port Macquarie. There's ample on-site parking available.