The Big Banana Fun Park in Coffs Harbour is one of Australia’s most recognisable “big things” and a full-day family destination combining thrill rides, water park features, mini-golf, ice skating and banana-themed fun. This practical guide provides clear information for first-time visitors about opening hours, ticket prices, parking and how to plan your visit.
History and overview of the Big Banana Fun Park
The Big Banana monument was established in 1964 by John Landi to attract traffic to a roadside stall on the Pacific Highway. Over time the site evolved into a dedicated amusement park now known as The Big Banana Fun Park, with a large selection of rides and attractions built around the notorious banana structure.
Today the park includes ten main attractions including a giant six-lane slide (“The Racer”), a 600-metre toboggan ride, 36-hole mini-golf, ice skating rink, laser tag arena, water park (seasonal), and a large banana plantation tour.
The park is located at 351 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 and welcomes day visitors, families, school groups and bus tours. The site is open rain or shine and offers both high-energy rides and laid-back banana-plantation themed experiences.
While general entry to the park grounds is free, most rides and water-based attractions are ticketed either individually or via combo/day-pass packages.
Opening hours for the Big Banana Fun Park
Each attraction has its own opening hours, which makes visiting the Big Banana frankly confusing. Some of the opening hours can be ridiculously short, others surprisingly long. For example, in October and November 2025, the water park was only open between 11.45am and 1.15pm on weekdays, while the Escape Rooms were open from 10am to 8pm on weekends.
More so than with other amusement parks, it is frankly essential to check the timetables before showing up.
The Big Banana is closed only on Christmas Day.
Ticket prices at the Big Banana Fun Park
Because the park offers multiple attractions and combinations, prices vary depending on what you choose. Some current published rates include:
- “Big Bunch of Fun Pass” (combo package): Adults (14+ yrs) A$77, Children (3-13 yrs) A$71.
- Grounds entry: Free – you can visit the banana monument, gift shop, café and plantation tour without paying for rides.
Many rides and attractions are individually priced and height/age restrictions may apply. You’ll find the latest pricing in the park’s online activity guide or when booking. But, for example, as of October 2025, it’s A$12 for the 4D ride, A$9 for the bumper cars, A$18 for mini golf and A$27 for ice skating.
How to get to the Big Banana Fun Park & parking
The address is 351 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. The park lies along the Pacific Highway just south of Coffs Harbour town centre, with good access by car.
Parking: There is a large on-site car park for day visitors. Accessible parking bays are available near the entrance café and gift shop.
If you are driving a coach or large vehicle, the site provides adequate turning room and coach parking. Booking ahead for large groups is recommended.
Accessibility and visitor facilities
The Big Banana Fun Park offers accessible parking spaces near the main entrance. The café and gift shop are wheelchair-friendly. Some rides and outdoor areas involve steep slopes or uneven surfaces; some attractions (such as toboggan rides) may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
Facilities include toilets, accessible toilets, a large café, and gift shop featuring banana-themed merchandise. The entire park is covered rain or shine, and there are shaded picnic areas. Vehicle-charging stations and coach parking are noted in the site’s facility list.
Best times to visit and how long to allow
For a more relaxed experience, visit on a weekday morning outside school holiday periods. Arriving just after opening gives you easier parking and shorter ride wait times. The busiest times are weekend afternoons and school-holiday periods.
To cover the main rides and attractions allow around 3 to 4 hours. If you plan to use the full day pass and include water park, escape rooms and other premium features, allow a full day. Families may choose to stay into early evening if the park offers extended hours.
Nearby attractions to combine with your visit
- Visit the nearby Coffs Harbour Butterfly House for a quieter nature-based experience.
- Explore the Coffs Coast beaches and the Solitary Islands Marine Reserve for a scenic stop after the fun park.
- Take a stroll in Coffs Harbour town centre and sample local seafood.
Tips for a smoother visit to the Big Banana Fun Park
- Check the park’s activity guide online before travelling. Some attractions close off-season or have scheduled maintenance.
- Book combo passes online to save money and skip some queues.
- Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes if you intend to use rides, ice skating or toboggan attraction.
- Bring swimmers and towels if you plan to use the water park (seasonal). The water park may close in winter months.
- Arriving early gives better parking location and less crowding at popular rides.
Frequently asked questions about the Big Banana Fun Park
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is entry free? | Yes, grounds entry is free and you can access the banana monument, café and gift shop without paying. Rides and attractions cost extra. |
| What are the opening hours? | Daily 9.00 am–5.00 pm; extended hours during school holidays (from 8.30 am and potentially later closing). Closed Christmas Day. Each attraction has its own hours, however. |
| How much are ride passes? | Big Bunch of Fun Pass – Adults A$77, Children A$71. |
| Is parking free? | Yes, there is free on-site day-visitor parking with accessible bays near the entrance. |
| Is the water park open year-round? | No, the water park is seasonal and may close in the winter months; check the activity guide for current status. |
More New South Wales travel
Other New South Wales travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Climbing Mt Kosciuszko – Australia’s highest mountain.
- Enjoying nature in Murray Valley National Park.
- Be surrounded by the ghosts of the wool industry at Yanga National Park.
- Why Ballina is more than just a gateway town for Byron Bay.
- Why visit Wategos Beach in Byron Bay?
