If you’re already dreaming of warmer days, you don’t need to wait for summer to plan a dreamy coastal escape. Just south of the Queensland border, Kingscliff offers the kind of laid-back beach break you might expect to find in trendy Jervis Bay, with sapphire-blue water, long stretches of golden sand and a food and drink scene just steps from the shore. Although a year-round favourite for people on both sides of the border, late winter and spring are particularly lovely times to visit, with milder days, breezy boutiques, fewer summer crowds, and the chance to spot migrating whales along the coast. Spend your days swimming in clear creeks, cycling beside the ocean or lingering over lunch at a waterfront restaurant, with plenty more to explore nearby. Here are some of the best things to do in Kingscliff this spring.
Things to do in Kingscliff in spring
With warmer days on the horizon, start by making the most of Kingscliff’s turquoise waterways. Cudgen Creek is one of the town’s standout natural wonders, flowing towards the ocean in shades of vivid blue and green. Its sheltered stretches are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, while the sandy banks provide plenty of spots to settle in for picnic by the water. Follow the creek towards its mouth and you’ll reach Kingscliff Beach, a stunning coastal spot popular for its golden sands, patrolled surf, and beachfront cafes.
Spring also falls within the annual humpback migration, so keep an eye on the horizon while exploring the coast. For a stellar vantage point, drive north to Fingal Head and follow the short walking track to the headland and historic lighthouse. From here, you can enjoy uninterrupted views across the glittering Pacific, making it an excellent place to look for whales travelling along the coast. Nearby Dreamtime Beach is worth adding to the trip too, with a long stretch of sand backed by coastal vegetation, rock formations and plenty of room for a quiet beach walk away from the crowds.
Back on land, two wheels are one of the best ways to explore the surrounding coastline. The Tweed Coast’s network of shared paths connects Kingscliff with neighbouring beach communities, providing a mostly flat ride past beaches, creeks and coastal bushland. You can hire a bike locally and make an easy morning of it, winding past beaches and headlands as you go.
Other ways to enjoy the town
Kingscliff has a surprisingly excellent dining scene for its size, with plenty of places to settle in after a morning by the water. Grab breakfast and coffee at The Salty Beardman, or head to longtime local favourite Choux Box Café for brunch. For something more substantial, Taverna serves Greek-inspired dishes in a charming setting, while Fins is a standout for fresh seafood. Nearby Paper Daisy, at Halcyon House in Cabarita Beach, is worth the short drive for a more elevated meal.
For something completely different, venture inland to Farm & Co at nearby Cudgen. The working farm opens its grounds to visitors, with seasonal fields, farm animals plenty of open countryside and paddock-to-plate dining. Its famous sunflower fields are planted at selected times of year, so check what’s on before you visit.
Save some time for browsing around Marine Parade, where you’ll find plenty of independent boutiques and lifestyle stores close to the beach. Pop into The Soho Movement for clothing and accessories, Oxley and Moss for fashion and homewares, or On Kliff for another dose of retail therapy. If you’re visiting on the second or fourth Saturday of the month, the Kingscliff Lions Beachside Markets are also worth a wander for local produce, handmade goods, gourmet food stalls and artisan finds, with a side of beautiful water views. Read more about Kingscliff and find accommodation options here.
Getting there
Kingscliff is around an 8-hour drive north of Sydney but well worth the journey. If you’re short on time, fly from Sydney to Gold Coast Airport, which is around 15 minutes from Kingscliff by car, with hire cars and transfers available from the airport. If you’re travelling from Brisbane, the drive takes around 90 minutes. Public transport options are available but limited, so having a car is recommended. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.
