Buyers discover coastal gem: Land selling on the Coffs Coast

Developer, Clarence Property has struck a chord with land buyers as the first release of its $110 million master planned community, Swell Woolgoolga, approaches sell-out, with over 70% of the first 30 homesites now sold.
Exceptional buyer interest at launch (over 2,000 enquiries in the first month) was driven mostly by locals getting in early, while the seaside suburb gains national attention as a premium lifestyle destination. Woolgoolga was crowned Australia’s best mainland beach in 2025 by Tourism Australia, and also recently ranked in Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit.
With construction well underway on Stage 1, Swell will ultimately deliver over 210 new homesites priced from $490,000 to the supply-constrained Coffs Coast market.
Clarence Property CEO Simon Kennedy said the positive response to Swell signifies the pent-up demand for residential options in Woolgoolga and across the Mid North Coast.
“It’s fantastic to see the first release of Swell heading toward a sell-out within months of launching.”
“Woolgoolga is a lifestyle hotspot with a severe lack of housing options – we are pleased Swell has resonated with so many who want to call this coastal community home.”
The Coffs Coast is experiencing rapid growth as buyers are drawn to the laid-back lifestyle, driving house prices up by 55% in the past five years as demand outstrips supply, creating an estimated need for 900 detached dwellings by 2041, according to a report by Urban Economics.
Joshua Binkley, Associate Director Urban Economics, said, “Swell offers an affordable alternative to nearby coastal northern NSW median vacant land prices of $680,000 in Ballina Shire, $1,000,000 in Byron Shire and $700,000 in the Tweed Shire, all as at March 2026”.
The first release of Swell consists of 30 homesites in the Retreat neighbourhood, ranging from 499sqm to 812sqm, designed to maximise liveability and connectivity.
5 Reasons to Buy New in Swell 10 Reasons Locals Love Woolgoolga
Why has Swell been so attractive to local buyers?
The first release has attracted strong local demand, with buyers drawn by the rare opportunity to build new close to Woolgoolga Beach and a range of other local convenience and lifestyle amenities. Channel 7 News Coast recently visited the Swell site and discussed the sales success with the Cardows x Swell sales team – watch below now:
Strategically positioned adjoining the Wiigulga Sports Complex, Swell’s Retreat neighbourhood, which is accessed via Newmans Road, is less than 1.5 km to the beach, an easy and safe bike ride to Woolgoolga High School, close to the town centre and Woolworths, and is just a 25-minute drive to major CBD infrastructure and employment opportunities in Coffs Harbour. Visit the link below to see what real buyers are saying about why they chose to invest in land at Swell.
Senior Development Manager Jim Hillery said, “the response to Swell from locals and relocators has been overwhelmingly positive”.
“Woolgoolga has one of the tightest land markets on the Coffs Coast with very little residential development despite the pent-up demand.”
“Swell has helped shift the market dynamic, creating housing options that are well-priced in a lifestyle-rich location that’s emerging as a premium beachside destination,” with Mr Hillery adding that Woolgoolga was recently named by Australian Traveller in the top 10 emerging places to visit in Australia.
“Swell complements the existing village character, creating a coastal community that residents will be proud to call home.”
Swell buyer Peter Hickey, who previously built a home in Clarence’s nearby Yamba Quays community, said the quality, planning and community amenity were what attracted him to buy at Swell.
“I was immediately attracted to this land purchase as I knew this development by Clarence Property would be extensively planned to a very high quality, ensuring every block available would offer potential purchasers a wonderful option to build their individual homes.”
He added, “the requirements regarding the building process gives me confidence this development will be done right and maintain its cutting-edge quality.”
Design guidelines are in place to ensure each home is thoughtful, sustainable, and aesthetically consistent to protect the investment of all owners.
Adding to its appeal, Swell also offers house-and-land packages for buyers, with prices ranging from around $1 million to $1.4 million, offering 3, 4, and 5-bedroom homes in single and double-storey configurations.
Just eight new level homesites remain for sale in the Retreat release of Swell, priced from $490,000* and expected for completion later this year.
Book a site inspection
Site inspections are strictly by appointment. We welcome potential new residents to come and see how amazing it looks on site, and get the full Swell experience for themselves. Get in touch with the Swell x Cardows team today on 1800 961 021 to book a tour or discuss availability and pricing.
Final land now selling in Release 1
- View plans and prices for all land for sale here.
Land is now selling from $490,000* – with just 8 homesites now remaining for sale in Release 1. - Ask about house & land packages now selling.
- Get in touch with the exclusive Cardows x Swell project sales team here or call 1800 961 021 to secure your preferred homesite or new home.
- Follow Swell on Facebook and Swell on Instagram for all construction updates and new neighbourhood releases as they happen.
Swell is more than just a new land release. It’s an invitation to experience coastal living with modern convenience in the heart of Woolgoolga.
