Places worth discovering
Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.
Looking for a dated event? Explore Events621 places
Sports and Recreation Facilities
Surf, kayak, or stand up paddle board at Evans Head Surf Shack during the warmer months in Evans Head. Evans Head Surf Shack has hire and group tour options available. Take on the ocean during a group tour or, if the seas aren't your style, go on an eco-friendly river tour.
Evans Head NSW
0.2 km away
View place
Galleries, Museums and Collections
The Evans Head Living Museum is located in Clarrie Kirkland Reserve on the Evans River foreshore adjacent to Reflections Holiday Park. The Museum boasts historical photographs, newspaper articles, World War II memorabilia and items related to Evans Heads' history. The Living Museum is an excellent place to learn about the history and development of the Evans Head township.
Evans Head NSW
0.3 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
The Evans River is located in the heart of the seaside village of Evans Head. It is the ideal setting for on-water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and boating. Barbecue facilities are just a stones throw away from the sandy banks of the river, and a walking track lines the edges of this pristine waterway. Two boat ramps are located at the southern end of the Evans River, along with fish cleaning facilities and pontoon moorings.
Evans Head NSW
0.4 km away
View place
National Parks and Reserves
Dirawong is a magical place of natural beauty, comprising of approximately 300 hectares of sanctuary. A dominant feature is the Goanna Headland on the northern boundary. In the mythology of the Bundjalung Nation, the Dirawong is an unseen spiritual creature also known as the goanna spirit. The Reserve holds great spiritual significance for the Traditional Owners. Follow the designated walking tracks and discover the natural beauty of the Dirawong Reserve Follow the walking tracks and explore the headland of Evans Head. Along the way you will cross secluded beaches, caves and may spot a dolphin or whale.
Evans Head NSW
0.4 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
The small and protected beach of Shark Bay is on the south side of the Evans River mouth and below Razorback Lookout. There is a great stretch of sand here when the tide is out with the benefit of natural protection from a rocky cove. Enjoy a swim or clamber out the rocky shoreline. Shark Bay is a popular spot for families and friends to gather around and enjoy picnics and barbecues by the river. Cooking facilities are free and the area is wheelchair friendly with a ramp onto the beach and up to the picnic shelters. Access to the southern break wall has recently been concreted to allow access for all abilities.
Evans Head NSW
0.7 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
Main Beach is ideal for inexperienced surfers because it enjoys protection from the big southeast swells that get the local big-wave riders excited. The river estuary that divides the town attracts lots of ocean wildlife and there's great fishing in the river itself off the beach. Other fixtures in Evans Head are an osprey's nest near the tiny boat harbour that's home to the state's first prawn-fishing fleet. The beach is more exposed and the rips more variable the further north you go. This quiet town of around 3,000 people is home to the largest caravan park on Australia's East Coast, so the population swells whenever school's out. Bordered by National Parks on three sides, Evans Head is brilliantly situated and the caravan park/campground's beachside and river-front location means that once you arrive, you can park your car and leave it for the duration of your stay.
Evans Head NSW
0.8 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
Approximately 45 metres above sea level, Razorback Lookout overlooks the NSW North Coastline and Evans Head Township. The lookout is wheel chair accessible and is fitted with excellent barbecue and picnic facilities, public toilet facilities and ample parking spaces making it the perfect spot to enjoy the picturesque scenery of this beautiful region. Newly installed binoculars are great for whale watching and viewing the rolling hills of the hinterland. Within the park, you will find a large anchor with an interesting story dating back to the early 1900s, and a sculpture depicting the Evans Head coastline with information regarding the headland and traditional custodians.
Evans Head NSW
0.9 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
In the mythology of the Bundjalung Nation, the Dirawong (a goanna) is the Creator Being that taught the people various aspects of Aboriginal culture and customs. Goanna Headland, at Evans Head (one of the most easterly points on mainland Australia and the town where Queen Elizabeth II flew into during her Royal visit to Australia in 1954), is believed to be the body of the mythical Dirawong. Dirawong Reserve, also known as Goanna Headland, has been the mythological place of origin of the Bundjalung Nation for thousands of years. The Australian Aboriginal tribal groups of the Bundjalung Nation call it "The Dirawong". Within its landscape are many sacred, secret and ceremonial sites. To date, some 24 archaeological sites have been located on Goanna Headland to the south of Evans Head Village. The Dirawong Reserve walking trail takes you across the headland and around the breathtaking coastline, winding back through the coastal heaths. Download the walking trail brochure and plan your journey.
Evans Head NSW
1.5 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
Bound by the native bushland of Bundjalung National Park and Dirawong Reserve, Chinamans Beach is a secluded beach a short drive from Evans Head township. Follow the walking track from Chinamans Beach car park, down to one of the most peaceful spots along the North Coast. You'll enjoy endless coastal views from walking trails onto Goanna Headland where interpretive signs explain this site's significance to the Aboriginal people. Snapper Rocks to the south of Chinamans Beach features large grassy headlands and spectacular views of the surrounding coastline. There are many rock pools at low tide to be explored in the area between the beach and New Zealand Beach before walking to Snapper Rock. Beaches south of Snapper Rock are closed to the public due to the proximity of the bombing range. Please note: Camping is prohibited at Chinamans Beach and Dirawong Reserve.
Evans Head NSW
1.8 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
Located just north of Main Beach in Evans Head, New South Wales, Airforce Beach is a pristine 4.6-kilometre stretch of coastline in the Richmond Valley. It is a premier destination on the NSW North Coast for 4WD beach driving, surf fishing, dog walking, horse riding, and swimming. Airforce Beach is accessible to registered 4WD vehicles via the designated entrance at Terrace Street, Evans Head. No permits are required, making it an easy stop for coastal road trips. Standard road rules, vehicle registration, and posted speed limits apply. Activities: 4WD driving, beach fishing, swimming, dog walking, horse riding 4WD Access: Entrance via Terrace Street (No council permit required) Pet Policy: Dog off-leash area extends 1.3 kilometres north from the 4WD ramp Vehicle Rules: Registered 4WDs only; standard road rules and speed limits apply
Evans Head NSW
1.8 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
If you want a water based adventure without getting your feet too wet, it could be hard to pass up the chance to paddle up the Evans River at the northern tip of Bundjalung National Park. Here, the river, ocean and rainforest meet in a festival for the senses. Paddling upstream from Gummigurrah picnic area, the outside world will melt away as you pass river islands, mangroves, rainforest as well as heathland and coastal banksia. A birdwatching paradise, listen for the distinct call of the eastern whip-bird and the toy trumpet like call of the rare barred cuckoo shrike. You might glimpse shorebirds such as the white faced heron or pied oystercatcher. At dawn and dusk, eastern grey kangaroos, red-necked wallabies and swamp wallabies often come out to feed. Scour the tops of nearby trees and there could be a sleeping koala or two. Stretch your legs along Gummigurrah walking track after returning.
Evans Head NSW
2.3 km away
View place
Galleries, Museums and Collections
Discover heritage aviation at the exciting Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Museum, which thousands of magnificent men and women called home while undergoing bombing training during World War ll. The museum features military and civilian aircraft and artefacts collected from across Australia. Get up close to real, military and civilian aircraft heritage aircrafts. Take the driver's seat of the F-111 fighter bomber. Take a personalised tour with passionate volunteers who remember the stories, the history, the tragedies and the triumphs of Northern Rivers aviation. Explore the museum, complete with interpretive signage, tour desk, free parking. The major attraction to the museum is a RAAF Canberra A84-203 and takes pride of place next to the F-111 fighter bomber. Pick up a souvenir of your visit in the museum gift shop or arrange a personalised photo session. Browse the handicrafts in the Evans Head Men's Shed annexe.
Evans Head NSW
2.3 km away
View place
National Parks and Reserves
Broadwater National Park is a great place to visit with friends and family, especially if you enjoy birdwatching. The swamps and marshlands of Broadwater are home to many waders such as ibis, herons and brolgas. The rare black-necked stork, commonly known as a 'jabiru', is occasionally sighted around Salty Lagoon. There's also a great diversity of animals in Broadwater so keep an eye out for swamp wallabies, red-necked wallabies, echidnas, bandicoots, bush rats, blossom bats and ringtail possums. Early mornings and early evenings are the times when you're most likely to see these creatures when they're feeding or hunting. There are some short walking tracks in Broadwater that lead to beaches where you'll be able to see examples of the large sand dunes and swale gullies that were formed between the ice ages some 60,000 years ago. In spring and winter, take a look out to sea while you have a picnic and enjoy some whale watching.
Broadwater NSW
7.2 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
It's a short steep walk for 240m through coastal banksia and grass trees up onto Broadwater Headland. Enjoy magnificent scenic views over the Pacific Ocean and south to Evans Head and Goanna Headland. Encourage the kids to count the steps on the way to distract them from their physical exertion. Broadwater inland lookout is also a great vantage point for whale watching in spring and winter if you bring your binoculars. If you're into birdwatching you might visit specifically to see birds of prey doing their things along this gorgeous coastline. You're likely to spot white-bellied sea eagles, osprey, brahminy kites and whistling kites throughout the year. Can you tell the difference between these two types of kite? Both are a similar size and, depending on whether you're looking at a juvenile or not, it's sometimes hard to tell them apart by their markings. So have a listen and you'll know a brahminy kite because it's call is pee-ah-ah-ah and the whistling kite's is si-si-si-si-si. After your walk, try nearby Broadwater Beach picnic area to rest a relax over a picnic lunch.
Broadwater NSW
9.2 km away
View place
Galleries, Museums and Collections
The River Emporium is a unique place to stop for a browse in Woodburn. Selling unique antiques, vintage, art deco, furniture, records and decor items. For a one-off find or just curious to have a look around, make sure to pop into Woodburn off the Pacific Highway to view this emporium.
Woodburn NSW
10 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
Ready to take a break from the road and need a good picnic area? Broadwater Beach picnic area couldn't feel further from the highway despite being only a short diversion. Perhaps you're a local or staying in the area for a while and have time to relax over a leisurely picnic lunch before exploring the park or taking advantage of the nearby beach and go swimming, surfing or fishing. Plants found around the picnic area are mainly coastal banksia, tuckeroo (also called carrotwood and beach tamarind), pandanus, heath and midgen berry. Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as the birdlife around the picnic area is abundant, especially in spring when the wildflowers are blooming brightly. Midgen berry is traditional bushfood; the sweet dotted berry melts in your mouth and has a gingery flavour. Something to add to your picnic. After lunch why not take in the views from the nearby Broadwater inland lookout.
Broadwater NSW
10 km away
View place
Shopping and Markets
Numbat Hemp has reopened in Woodburn with a wide variety of hemp products available. The range of products includes hemp clothing, accessories, skincare, as well as health and body care products. With a focus on handmade and natural products, Numbat Hemp is a must see when you stop by Woodburn on the banks of the Richmond River.
Woodburn NSW
10 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
Launch a canoe or kayak from the pontoon and paddle the tranquil tea-tree lined waters of Jerusalem Creek. A popular place for paddling on the north coast, the route offers the perfect combination of convenience and seclusion. When you've finished paddling, stretch your legs along Jerusalem Creek walk, enjoy a picnic at Booroora picnic area or stay overnight at Mibanbah Black Rocks campground.
Esk NSW
13 km away
View place
Galleries, Museums and Collections
New Italy museums and facilities stand on acreage that was once part of the original New Italy settlement, on the Pacific Highway in Northern NSW, between Byron Bay and Grafton. Historic New Italy is a great place to rest, enjoy an excellent coffee at their Café and an Italian experience in the Australian bush land. Delicious home-made cakes, fulsome lunches, drinks and snacks are all available. Bring your family and friends for a leisurely lunch under the vine trellises, or call through for quality take-away for the ongoing trip, coaches and meetings. Dedicated volunteers wanting to preserve the memory of the pioneering Italian families built the mud-brick Museum/Café, Italian Pavilion, Gift Shop, Community Hall and Glass Art Workshop buildings during the 1980s and 1990s. This quiet stopover off the highway has ample free parking and space for caravans, picnic areas and room to walk your leashed dog. Often kangaroos can be seen lying about watching the site’s visitors.
New Italy NSW
14 km away
View place
Natural Attractions
Jerusalem Creek walk traces the water’s journey to its connection with the sea. This is an important wetland area for many shorebirds, which roost and nest along the creek banks. Watch out for the pied oystercatcher and beach stone-curlew. The full circuit is nearly 10.3 kilometres, so it makes a nice day walk, but if you’re feeling like a shorter hike, you can take the easier option of starting and finishing from Black Rocks campground. Make sure you take a picnic or barbecue hamper to enjoy a feast at Booroora picnic area when you’ve finished the walk. Bring the canoe for a paddle along Jerusalem Creek paddle route or pack the tent and stay overnight at Black Rocks campground.
Esk NSW
14 km away
View place
National Parks and Reserves
If you enjoy holidaying on the water, you'll love Bundjalung's combination of river, beach and freshwater lagoons. This north coast park stretches north from Iluka to Evans Head with the Pacific Ocean as its eastern boundary. Spend a day canoeing along Evans River or Jerusalem Creek, mountain biking the Macaulays Lead or Serendipity fire trail, or walking along Ten Mile Beach. There are also boat launching facilities, snorkelling on the shallow reefs and fishing. If you'd like to spend longer exploring, head to one of the beachside campgrounds in the park, or book into one of the Woody Head cabins. In the evening enjoy a barbecue dinner before gathering around the campfire with a local Bundjalung guide to listen to stories of their culture, values and connections to this park.
Esk NSW
19 km away
View place
Galleries, Museums and Collections
Tucked beneath the Wardell Bridge and best viewed from the pedestrian underpass, this vibrant painted mural reflects the energy and creativity of the Wardell youth community. Created through a series of hands-on art workshops facilitated by the Ballina District Community Services Association, young locals came together to design and paint two central themes that capture the heart of their town — a love of music (from hip hop and dancing to local bands) and the importance of the Richmond River, including its cane fields and seasonal fires. The project supported by the Northern Rivers Community Foundation, provided participants with the opportunity to learn new artistic skills, express themselves, and build friendships in a supportive environment. Today, the mural stands as a colourful celebration of youth creativity, connection, and pride in place, transforming a once-ordinary space into a living artwork that tells the story of Wardell's next generation. Developed as a community youth art initiative, the Wardell Bridge Mural highlights the power of art to connect people, inspire confidence, and bring vibrancy to shared public spaces across the Ballina Shire.
Wardell NSW
19 km away
View place
Galleries, Museums and Collections
Bright, bold, and brimming with community spirit, Wonderful Wardell is a large-scale digital mural created by local artist Kate Stroud in collaboration with the Wardell community. Developed during the Wonderful Wardell event in June 2024 — a celebration of local pride and creativity — Kate invited residents to share what their river town means to them through a creative design workshop. The result is a joyful artwork that combines these community contributions into a single vibrant piece adorning the Wardell Bridge abutments. Drawing inspiration from vintage Australiana tea towels and featuring culturally significant local symbols, the mural captures the personality, humour, and warmth of Wardell. It's a colourful reminder of connection — to place, to people, and to the stories that make this riverside town unique. Kate Stroud is a Northern Rivers artist, signwriter, and large-scale muralist celebrated for her joyful, rebellious, and community-led artworks. Her murals and designs enliven laneways, shopfronts, and public spaces from Lismore to Perth. Passionate about creativity as a form of identity and connection, Kate's work is a vibrant celebration of local culture, resilience, and place.
Wardell NSW
19 km away
View place
National Parks and Reserves
New Italy Mountain Bike Forest is a cross-country trail network located within beautiful sclerophyll forests. There is about 30 kilometres of purpose-built single-track mountain bike trails. The trail network has been designed for the enjoyment of cyclists of a variety of abilities. A number of trails, including 'Burntwood Frenzy', 'Yabba Dabba Do', 'Knobby Mayhem', 'Crumplstiltskin', 'Snakes N Ladders' and 'Pocket Rocket' are suitable for some types of adaptive cycles. Some trails will be more difficult than others. The network includes natural terrain, constructed technical features, obstacles, drop-offs, bridges and steep land. The trail surface may change over time and make riding more difficult. Take care at all times and always ride within your ability. The New Italy Mountain Bike Forest Trail Network is built and maintained by volunteers for the exclusive use of mountain bike riders/cyclists only. The trails are managed under a Forestry Corporation NSW occupation permit by Northern Rivers Dirty Wheels Mountain Bike Club Incorporated.
Tabbimoble NSW
19 km away
View placeSearch dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.
Explore EventsUse Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.
