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Galleries, Museums and Collections
The Big Wednesday Art Studio is located in the heart of Crescent Head and connects creative communities through art and design. Situated inside a beautiful historic building in the village of Crescent Head, this quaint art gallery hosts a variety of different mediums of art created by local artists and makers.
Crescent Head NSW
0.4 km away
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Natural Attractions
Whether you’re a social golfer or a seasoned professional, playing the six-hole course at the Crescent Head Country Club is arguably one of the best golfing experiences in Australia and a must-do while you’re in the Macleay Valley. With spectacular, sweeping views of the Pacific Coast and beautifully manicured grounds the Crescent Head Golf Course provides a thoroughly picturesque location to play golf. During the whale migration seasons of late May to early July and October to early November, see the passing whales from the golf course. The course is well maintained to ensure optimum playing conditions all year round and there is a golf pro shop on-site where you can hire all your equipment. After your round, retire to the clubhouse and have a quiet drink at the bar or bite to eat at the restaurant and gaze out over the rolling waves while you watch the Malibu riders surf the breaks.
Crescent Head NSW
0.6 km away
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Sports and Recreation Facilities
Crescent Head Country Club has a brand-new Mini Golf and BBQ Gazebo area. Featuring an 18-hole course, come and relax with family and friends while you take in the surroundings and show off your golf skills. Book for an event or enjoy a social hit, this course is not to be missed while you are in Crescent Head.
Crescent Head NSW
0.6 km away
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Natural Attractions
Killick Beach is 14 kilometres long at Crescent Head is a picturesque white sand beach that is home to the Crescent Head Malibu Classic. Famous for a long, slow right-hand wave that peels off the point, working in almost any sized swell it is best suited to longboards. The tidal Killick Creek opens into the Pacific Ocean and provides sheltered swimming for children. In front of the surf club is a beach break that is home to left and right-hand waves depending on the direction and size. This is Crescent Head’s most popular family beach as it provides easy access to the centre of town, plenty of parking, barbecue facilities and a playground for the children. Four-wheel drive access is available for beach permit holders from Richardsons Crossing to the Hungry Camp Area. Surf Lifesaving Patrol is available on weekends (October to April) and during the holiday season.
Crescent Head NSW
0.7 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
*Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that the following listing contains creative works of a person who has passed away. Kempsey Aboriginal artist Milton Budge was commissioned to create two murals in the Kempsey region. The first commission in 1987 was for the Booroongen-Djugun Aboriginal Corporation’s Aged Care Facility at Kempsey and the second mural in 1989, was painted onto the Water Towers at Crescent Head. The massive water tower mural is combined with mosaics, overlooks the ocean and is a spectacular place to not only take in the artwork but also the stunning vista of the Crescent Head coastline and beyond.
Crescent Head NSW
0.7 km away
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Natural Attractions
Surfers travel from around the world to experience the breaks of the Crescent Head Surfing Reserve. Home of the Malibu Classic, the beaches here have been a mecca for surfers for generations. Make sure to take a surfing lesson in town, there are several operators in Crescent Head that will teach you how to catch the perfect wave. The popularity of the area has been marked with the beach declared a National Surfing Reserve in 2008. The surfing reserve is in the heart of the town in Crescent Head Reserve. There is a kids playground and boat ramp close by as well. Crescent Head (or Creso as the locals call it) is well-protected with Goolawah Reserve and Limeburners Creek Nature Reserve edging it to the north and the south. Little Nobby is at the eastern end of the reserve and is a fantastic short walk with spectacular views of the reserve and the coastline and is a must when in Creso. In the winter months it's also a perfect spot for whale watching. It's also popular with families who enjoy the safe waters of the creek and seaside camping.
Crescent Head NSW
0.7 km away
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National Parks and Reserves
Come and be captivated by the uncrowded beaches and pristine headlands of Goolawah National Park, near Kempsey on the NSW North Coast. Roaming through these coastal surroundings, you can't help feeling you've landed in a place untouched by time. Comprising a narrow strip of mostly beachfront land, the park runs south from the outskirts of Crescent Head village to Racecourse Headland, where it links with Goolawah Regional Park. Here, biological diversity combines with significant Aboriginal heritage. The beaches are secluded and pure, bounded by exquisite native plant life rather than carparks or cafes. A left-hand point break beckons to surfers, while spectacular rocky shores, reefs and a lagoon provide the ideal setting for snorkelling or swimming. Go birdwatching or whale watching, spot dolphins and turtles, or scan the bush for koalas or dingoes. To really connect with nature, nothing compares with a night or two in the great outdoors. Head to Racecourse campground, or nearby Delicate campground in Goolawah Regional Park, for that low-key beach camping experience, followed by a beach walk, a spot of fishing, or an unforgettable moment spent watching the sun rise over this tranquil place of beauty.
Crescent Head NSW
3.6 km away
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Natural Attractions
Positioned right on Goolawah Beach, the Racecourse campground puts you in pole position for exquisite scenic views and marine wildlife spotting. Surrounded by paperbarks and coastal banksia, protected from those gusting southerlies by Racecourse Headland, this beach camping spot is a secluded gem. Try the renowned surf break, go snorkelling or fishing, or see if you can spy a dolphin or two.
Crescent Head NSW
5.5 km away
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Natural Attractions
A popular break with two campgrounds located adjacent to Delicate and Big Hill. Delicate is an unusual beach with a large rock formation dividing it into two sections. When the swell is direct you can get waves peeling off each side of the formation. Delicate is an excellent beach for walking and running with numerous walking tracks tracing their way over the headlands at either end. On a flat day, Delicate offers some excellent snorkelling opportunities. Length – one kilometre Four Wheel Drive Access – Prohibited Surf Lifesaving Patrol – None Dogs - Permitted
Crescent Head NSW
8.0 km away
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Natural Attractions
Starting at the picnic area by the beach, this short loop trail winds around the top of the headland, providing sweeping views of the pristine coastline and rocky shores below. Find a spot on the headland to sit and take in the untouched beauty around you. In winter and spring, it also makes for a great vantage point for whalewatching. The walk meanders through low heath vegetation and pandanus palms before taking you into rare coastal rainforest. The strangler figs, coastal blackbutt and large variety of rainforest species create a striking backdrop for the abundance of wildlife and birds you’ll find in the rainforest. At sunset, you might even see microbats flying through the canopy.
Crescent Head NSW
10 km away
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Natural Attractions
This short track leads gently uphill to reveal spectacular views of coastal estuaries and mountain hinterland, on the North Coast of NSW, south of Nambucca Heads. Not far from Hungry Gate campground, it’s a great introduction to the remote wilderness of the southern section of Hat Head National Park. Kinchela Trig lookout walk winds through well-established banksia groves up to the trig station, marked with a concrete plinth. In spring, the vibrant red banksia flowers make for excellent birdwatching, attracting rosellas and cockatoos. During summer, the surrounding bush comes to life with cicada song. Enjoy the fresh breeze off the ocean, as you take in the dramatic coastline stretching as far as the eye can see. Directly in front, you’ll be rewarded with a bird’s eye view of the headland. Keep your eyes peeled as sea-eagles and brahminy kites cruise the skies above this rugged stretch of coast.
Hat Head NSW
14 km away
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Natural Attractions
Tracing the rugged coastline, in northern NSW near Kempsey, this moderately challenging track offers delights all year round. Close to Hungry Gate campground in the southern section of Hat Head National Park, Connors walking track offers fantastic whale watching in autumn, brilliant wildflowers in spring, and secluded beaches in summer. In the warmer months, you might see vibrant paper daisies and pea flowers, dotted among the gnarled banksias in the heathland. Gazing across the rocky platforms, look for the nearby blowhole which puts on a spectacular show when a southerly wind blows. Winding through rainforest and sheltered gullies, you’ll be treated to spectacular coastal views. The track gently winds down to Connors Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waves. Enjoy a seaside picnic here, or continue along the headland trail to Third Beach.
Hat Head NSW
14 km away
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Natural Attractions
Queens Head is a long stretch of beach divided by a fantastic rock formation. The rock formation is a sort of abstracted headland, surrounded by crystalline waters and low-lying bushland. Queens Head is quite secluded and can only be accessed by a four-wheel drive southwest of Point Plomer or a 14-kilometre four-wheel drive beach drive from the Port Macquarie North Shore ferry at low tide. Swimmers are advised to be very careful as strong rips, rocks and often high waves dominate these two beaches. Stay in the centre of the bar, if attached, and away from the side rips and rocks. This beach is not patrolled. Surfing can be done for beach breaks when conditions are suitable. A popular area to fish luderick and blackfish with deep gutters and holes abound, with the rocks between the beaches called Never Fail. The southern Queens Head has a number of difficult spots including Sloppy Rock and The Island. Care is needed when walking on the steeply sloping rocks.
Limeburners Creek NSW
15 km away
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Entertainment Venues
Truly unique Australian small batch distillery. Locally farmed, responsibly sourced, sustainably distilled. It started about 6 years ago to see if they could make Limoncello. They had just come back from holidays on the Amalfi coast and were fascinated with the way the Italians made Limoncello in big 10 Litre jars. After a few (lots) of attempts, they managed to make reasonable Limoncello in the same style as the ones from Amalfi. So they decided to have a go at making Gin…. years later, a hobby had gotten completely out of control and has taken over their lives! They also decided to grow their own botanicals and have planted junipers, coriander, cardamom, finger limes, gum trees, and myrtle on the farm. All based around the tradition of old school spirit making, everything is made on-site, in small batches. Locally farmed, responsibly sourced and sustainably distilled.
Crescent Head NSW
15 km away
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Natural Attractions
Located right on the doorstep of the camping ground, better known as Point Plomer, is a long, sandy beach featuring an excellent right-hand wave. Point Plomer is a popular beach with a cult-like status amongst the locals and visitors. If surfing at the point is overcrowded, a good alternative is the beach break further down for left and right-hand waves. Fishing, swimming, surfing, bird watching, bushwalking, picnics and camping are favourite pastimes at Point Plomer. You can get to Point Plomer straight from Crescent Head - you drive along an unsealed road, so it is best to have a four wheel drive. Or if you are chasing an adventure then catch the ferry from Port Macquarie North Shore and beach drive to Queens Head or drive along Maria River Rd straight to Plomer.
Limeburners Creek NSW
15 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Nulla the Koala is a part of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, a bold, ambitious and imaginative sculpture project, which celebrates one of Australia’s iconic animals, the Koala. Above all, it is designed to generate a sense of fun and surprise for everyone who comes across one of the creatively decorated koalas resting in parkland, lazing by the river, waiting outside the shops, or playing with children. Find Nulla, created by artist Elwyn Toby, the Macleay Valley Coast Visitor Centre at the Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey.
South Kempsey NSW
16 km away
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National Parks and Reserves
Hidden away between Crescent Head and Port Macquarie on the mid north coast, you'll find this idyllic stretch of pristine coast. Get off the beaten track and enjoy this remote piece of beachside paradise. Discover golden sandy beaches, amazing surf breaks, remote camping spots and fascinating Aboriginal cultural heritage. With options for swimming, fishing, walking or just lazing on the beach, it makes for a fantastic family holiday or a relaxing beachside retreat. The sparkling coastline of heathlands, banksia and blackbutt forest and the rare rainforests of Big Hill provide habitat to an abundance of wildlife. You'll see ospreys, pied oystercatchers, dingoes, koalas, quolls, and if you're lucky, the rare ground parrot. You may even spot majestic black swans gliding over the waters of Saltwater Lake.
Limeburners Creek NSW
16 km away
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Amusement and Theme Parks
The Kalateenee Mountain Bike Trails are made up of 20-25 kilometres of mountain bike trails in Kalateenee State Forrest just outside of Kempsey. The trails are maintained to a high standard and are available for the public and visitors to use free of charge. The tracks are set in stunning bush scenery with towering Eucalyptus, Ironbark and Bushbox trees to be seen from nearly every angle. The tracks range in levels of ability with easier tracks for beginners and some more challenging tracks for advanced riders. Users should bring their own bike, helmet and equipment along with water and enjoy! It’s great to do solo or make a day out of it with the family. The trails are located behind the Kempsey Golf Club. The Macleay Valley Mountain Bike Club has a permit from NSW Forestry Corporation to manage the trails.
Kempsey NSW
16 km away
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Sports and Recreation Facilities
Kempsey Golf Club is located on the Macleay Valley Way, five kilometres south of the Kempsey. Their facilities include an 18-hole golf course, a practice fairway/driving range, and a licensed clubhouse (gaming and bar facilities). Their golf course (par 72) has a natural bushland setting with a creek and dam which makes the course interesting and enjoyable for golfers of all standards. It includes tree-lined fairways with a gently undulating layout, some bunkers, and recycled water to greens, fairways, and trees. Resident kangaroos are a daily feature and occasionally other native fauna make an appearance. Hire of clubs, buggies, and carts are available.
South Kempsey NSW
16 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Kempsey Museum features the history of the Macleay Valley from before white settlement to the present day, including a pioneer cottage furnished using historical items. Set in South Kempsey Park, next to the Visitor Information Centre. Displays include aboriginal history, boot making, timber industry, military history, natural history, dairy industry, shipping, historical vehicles, Shorty Ranger and local country music, telecommunications, textiles, silverware, ceramics and glassware, and the Angus McNeil glass negative photography collection. Bus groups are welcome.
South Kempsey NSW
16 km away
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Natural Attractions
Nestled between rocky headlands with a backdrop of lush rainforest, Gap Beach is a beautiful place to go fishing, surfing or swimming. This basic picnic area tucked at the southern end of Gap Beach has a picnic table and non-flush toilet. It's the perfect getaway when you're staying at Smoky Cape campground or Smoky Cape Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages. With a 4WD vehicle, you can drive to the end of South Gap Beach Road, then make a short walk to this beach. Boasting pristine white sand, Please note that this beach is not patrolled. Gap Beach is also a lovely place to cool off when exploring the many walking tracks of South West Rocks.
Hat Head NSW
17 km away
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Sports and Recreation Facilities
The pump track is a 'rollercoaster' path that riders of bicycles, skateboards, scooters and roller skates can complete without needing to pedal or push. For BMX enthusiasts and families with children learning to ride, the South Kempsey pump track offers an asphalt track with sweeping, banked turns designed for speed. It also includes viewing areas for family and friends to watch and enjoy.
South Kempsey NSW
17 km away
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Natural Attractions
Korogoro Walking Track is a 3.2 kilometre Loop with panoramic coastal views are only one of the attractions on this moderate track, encircling the headland at Hat Head. Korogoro walking track, on the easternmost tip of Hat Head National Park, winds through rare littoral rainforest and heathlands, dotted with wildflowers and endangered native grasses. As the path climbs steeply, stop to catch your breath and admire the stand of she-oaks; an important food source for glossy black cockatoos. The region is also home to rare kangaroo grasses which, although threatened, are thriving in the park due to the dedicated efforts of rangers and local community groups. Emerging through windswept banksias, enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. A perfect spot for a break, take in the spectacular view over a picnic lunch. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct white flannel flowers that burst into bloom in spring.
Hat Head NSW
17 km away
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Natural Attractions
Hat Head Village is located in the heart of Hat Head National Park. The area is characterised by excellent surfing beaches, good fishing and snorkelling. It is also noted for the whales and dolphins off the coast which can be viewed from many headland points. One of the top things to do in the Macleay Valley is to snorkel at Hat Head Creek. Make sure to time it just before high tide when the creek is full and brimming with marine life. The water in the creek is picture-perfect and crystal clear and reaches up to two metres of depth in places. Keep an eye out for hermit crabs, flat heads, mullets and even octopus ( tip look for the ink in the sand and they will be nearby). There is an abundance of mangroves in the creek that are an important part of the marine ecosystem, make sure not to tread on these! They are a vital part of the habitat and fish nursery. For the more adventurous you can snorkel into the ocean which wraps around Hat Head Mountain which is frequented by Wobbegong Sharks, so keep an eye out for these.
Hat Head NSW
17 km away
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