The Mid-North Coast of NSW remains a gentler counterpart to the busier coastal areas of the state but it offers a tranquil version of coastal living you’ll want to explore. Here you will find glorious windswept beaches, rainforest-fringed small towns, expansive national parks with swimming holes, and plenty of clear, pale-blue waters — a perfect respite from the scorching sun. One of its best-hidden gems is South West Rocks — a sleepy coastal town with a deceptively laidback vibe that offers much more than meets the eye. Pristine beaches, campgrounds, historic attractions, and a smattering of swimming and snorkelling spots make this the ideal summer getaway, free from the crowds of tourists. Ready to slip into summer holiday mode? Here is everything you need to see, eat, and do in South West Rocks.
Things to do in South West Rocks
Beyond its remarkable views, walking trails, and coastal activities, South West Rocks is an excellent place to relax and recharge, the kind of place you can go to without a plan and still have a memorable time. Fresh sea breeze, crashing waves, dramatic cliffs, cracking sunsets, and underwater adventures are on offer in this seaside town. It’s located between the more popular towns of Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie so between the two regions, you’ll never run out of things to do. Here are some of our top recommendations on what to do in this coastal destination.
1. Discover the incredible beaches
South West Rocks is home to at least a dozen lovely beaches so there are plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic, splash in clear, shallow waters or go on a meandering walk along the beach. The most popular is the picture-perfect Horseshoe Bay. Surrounded by towering pines, this small beach offers a sheltered cove, perfect for families, a kiosk serving delicious food and drink and sweeping views. Other beautiful beaches to explore include the family-friendly Trial Bay Beach, Little Bay where you can see kangaroos and the secluded Gap Beach which is accessible by 4WD only. Back Creek is another superb spot for swimming with a picturesque walk across the bridge through stunning mangroves.
2. Explore the historical attractions
South West Rocks boasts stellar historical attractions, one of which is the Trial Bay Gaol. The heritage-listed former prison opened in 1886 and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area. The well-preserved spot is framed by stunning coastal views and you can even stay overnight at the beachside Trial Bay Gaol Campground if you want to soak up the surroundings. Another must-visit historical attraction is the beautiful Smoky Cape Lighthouse, a heritage-listed active lighthouse that was built in 1891. Here you can breathe in the fresh sea air, spot migrating whales, or stay overnight at the lighthouse keepers’ cottage.
3. Go scuba diving with sharks
If you love a bit of adventure in your summer trips, you can’t miss the famous South West Rocks Dive Centre. Offering an unforgettable ocean cave dive experience with local guides who are happy to take you out, rain or shine, this is one of the best wildlife experiences you can have in NSW. Enter the 125-metre-long Fish Rock Cave and see a stunning variety of marine life up close including giant bull rays, grey nurse sharks and thousands of wobbegong sharks, a sight you need to experience to believe. Diving at Fish Rock is great year-round so you can plan your trip anytime.
4. Browse the boutiques and beachside markets
If like me, you prefer to stay dry on land, South West Rocks offers a variety of boutique stores selling clothes, jewellery, giftware and more. Head to Good Vibes Homewares for a collection of home decor and furnishings or make a beeline to Somewhere Clothing for ethically sourced, Australian fashion. Two of the quirkier places to visit are The Shell Shop which sells rare shells of different sizes, colour and shapes and Opals, Gems and Things for a range of gemstones and handmade jewellery. If you enjoy being by the beach, head to the local Beachside Markets at Horseshoe Bay for fresh produce, handmade goods, delicious food and drink and plenty of good vibes.
5. Dine at the quality cafes and restaurants
South West Rocks has a variety of delicious restaurants and quaint cafes with an abundance of fresh, local fare. Quietly making a name for itself on the dining scene on the Macleay Valley Coast, the town features everything from homegrown eateries to seaside cafes and upscale options, catering to all kinds of foodies. Recommended hotspots include The Riverside Tavern serving delicious food with a side of ocean views, Malt & Honey for delicious breakfast and coffee, Chillati Gelato if you’re keen to cool off with some ice cream and gelato smoothies, Fuller Food and Co. for refreshing drinks and sweet treats, and Social Alley Diner for modern American and classic Aussie fare.
6. Hike the nearby national parks
One of South West Rocks’ biggest draws is its proximity to the Arakoon National Park which makes for a wonderful day trip option. Here, you can take advantage of beachside camping, walking along the picturesque foreshore, turquoise-hued beaches perfect for a few laps and go whale watching. The national park is also famous for its excellent walking tracks including the 5.5km Smoky Cape Range walking track with spectacular ocean views and the short 1.1km Powder Magazine walking track that leads to the historic powder magazines on the headland at Arakoon National Park, running past native flora and cool patches of rainforest. The nearby Hat Head National Park is also packed with serene adventures. Read more about South West Rocks and find places to stay here.
How to get there
South West Rocks is a 5.5-hour drive from Sydney and a perfect addition to a Sydney to Brisbane road trip. You can also catch a train from Central to Kempsey, then hop on a bus towards South West Rocks. If you’re short on time, you can fly into Port Macquarie and hire a car. Summer is the best time to visit for water activities while spring and autumn offer mild temperatures for bushwalking and outdoor exploration.