Finding a beautiful beach town in NSW is easy but choosing which one to visit can be a challenge. Do you go for powdery white sand beaches with extraordinarily clear waters, a snorkeller’s paradise teeming with sea life or a town on the verge of becoming the next big thing? Vacationers have an embarrassment of choice. For the traveller looking to discover less-chartered territory, the state offers several under-the-radar destinations that often rival, and sometimes even surpass their more famous counterparts.
One such destination is the serene coastal town of Nambucca Heads, perched on the mouth of the Nambucca River where you can spend your days lounging on the beach, swimming in the deep blue waters, or spotting dolphins and whales. With its shimmering golden shores backed by towering rainforests, it offers a raw, natural beauty perfect for a warm-weather getaway. Here is everything you need to see, eat, and do at Nambucca Heads.
What to see and do: V-Wall, beaches, musuems and hiking trails
Just a short drive from the two more talked-about towns of Bellingen and South West Rocks, Nambucca is a haven for beach bums with plenty of outdoor enjoyment, dining options, and local shops. If you prefer to spend your summer on the beach, head to Nambucca’s patrolled Main Beach for warm, crystal-clear waters and great surf. A favourite for photo ops, Shelly Beach and Beilbys Beach provide beautiful coastal views best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand. Another must-visit is South Beach, located in the Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park, a prime spot for summer activities like kayaking, swimming, boating, fishing, coastal dunes, and quiet forest hikes to enjoy at your own pace.
The rainforest walk in Gordon Park is also highly recommended if you’re looking to cool off in nature or head to the local Nambucca Markets for your weekly supplies. Plus, don’t miss out on exploring the beautiful Nambucca River on a boat cruise.
Not up for outdoor adventures? Nambucca Heads is also quietly emerging as a cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene. A must-see attraction is the V-Wall outdoor art gallery, which perfectly captures the spirit of the town. The gallery, now a popular tourist draw, showcases painted rocks, each featuring pictures, messages and names.
Art lovers should also make a beeline to Stringer Art Gallery to see local art and paintings on display or stroll down Bowra Street and discover the colourful Nambucca Heads Mosaic and graffiti. For those who enjoy a round of golf, Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club is known as one of Australia’s most picturesque courses, surrounded by striking water views — so don’t forget to tee off while you’re in town.
Where to eat: Local cafes and restaurants
Whether you’re hankering for fresh local seafood, a wholesome breakfast with organic ingredients, or a meal with a side of ocean views, there is something for every taste and occasion in Nambucca.
Head to the V-Wall Pavillion for delicious cocktails, stunning water views, and casual menu offerings including oysters, salads and burgers. Also, a must-visit is the perfectly pink Matilda’s — a local favourite spot for get-togethers, BBQ, pizzas, and refreshing drinks.
Other top-notch spots include The Island Restaurant with lovely river views, the laidback Nambucca Boatshed & Cafe serving pancakes, burgers, wraps and light meals and the Wharf Street Cafe, located right next to the water with a stacked all-day menu to boot. For a quieter afternoon, visit the Bookshop Cafe, ideal for morning coffee as you browse through your next read.
Where to stay: Coastal retreats and family-friendly resorts
This serene hideaway boasts equally charming accommodation options with glistening water views and soft shores just minutes away.
The Valla Beach Holiday Park sits along the stunning South Valla Beach and offers a variety of cabin, caravan, and camping site accommodation, just a 15-minute drive from Nambucca Heads. Other stellar options include the Reflections holiday park nestled in lush green scenery, and the perfect setting to relax and enjoy panoramic coastal views and the 680-acre cattle farm and hardwood timber plantation in the heart of the Nambucca Valley, Yarrawin Camping for an even more nature-focused escape.
If creature comforts are a non-negotiable, head to the 60s-inspired boutique motel, The Beach Rooms surrounded by incredible views of the Nambucca waterways, or The Cubana Resort which boasts manicured gardens, a lily pond, and breezy, spacious rooms. Read more about Nambucca Heads and find accommodation options here.
The best time to visit
Summer is the perfect time to visit to experience the very best of the coastal town in all its glory. From November to April, enjoy watersports, swimming, kayaking and surfing while late May to July is the prime season for whale watching. Time your visit during spring and autumn if you want to avoid the crowds and book accommodation with off-season rates.
How to get there
Located on the Mid North Coast of NSW in the Nambucca Valley, Nambucca Heads is around a 5-hour drive from Sydney and about 40 minutes from Coffs Harbour. It’s an excellent stop on a Sydney to Brisbane road trip. Even better, it’s easily accessible via public transport with direct train services from Hornsby to Nambucca Heads.