Sawtell
NSW 2452 • Rest of NSW
About Sawtell
Sawtell is a charming coastal suburb located 8 kilometres south of Coffs Harbour on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, approximately 528 kilometres north of Sydney. With a population of around 3,800, it has grown from a historic timber settlement into a beloved seaside village. The suburb is known for its heritage character, with Norfolk pines lining the main street and a strong community spirit. The traditional custodians of the area are the Gumbaynggirr people.
Sawtell offers an enviable coastal lifestyle with a vibrant village atmosphere. First Avenue, the tree-lined main street, is home to boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and a historic cinema. Sawtell Beach is a popular patrolled surf beach, while Bonville Creek and the nearby Bongil Bongil National Park provide bushwalking and nature experiences. The suburb hosts popular events including the annual Chilli Festival. It attracts a mix of families, retirees, and sea-changers drawn to the relaxed pace and natural beauty.
Sawtell falls under postcode 2452 and is governed by Coffs Harbour Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Coffs Harbour electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- 361 — Coffs Harbour to Sawtell via Toormina 15-20 mins
- 360 — Sawtell to Coffs Harbour direct 15 mins
Commute to Sydney CBD
🛣️ Regional coastal suburb — Coffs Harbour is the nearest major centre. Coffs Harbour Airport provides domestic flights.
Village centre with shops, cafes and beach all within easy walking distance along First Avenue
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Bayldon Public School ICSEA 8122452 Location map We are located at Lyons Rd
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26 Hi Tech Drive
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2 Eungella Street
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Crime Statistics
NSW crime data is provided by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR). Use the interactive tool below to explore recorded crime incidents in Sawtell by offence type, year and trend.
📊 View Sawtell Crime Statistics on BOCSAR ↗Data source: NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research · Search for "Sawtell" under Suburb
Housing 2021 Census
26 state housing + 55 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 136
- 2. New Zealand 56
- 3. South Africa 25
- 4. Scotland 17
- 5. Netherlands 13
- 6. Thailand 13
- 7. Canada 12
- 8. Germany 11
- 9. United States 10
- 10. Vietnam 9
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)