Tweed Head

Perched on the far north coast of New South Wales, Tweed Head is a laid-back coastal town where the Tweed River meets the Pacific Ocean. With its subtropical climate, golden beaches, and lush hinterland, it's a gateway to some of the most stunning scenery in the state. The town itself has a relaxed vibe, with a smattering of cafes and boutiques, but the real draw is the surrounding natural beauty — from the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests to the volcanic peak of Mount Warning.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Warning (Wollumbin): The remnant of an ancient volcano, this iconic peak offers a challenging sunrise hike with panoramic views over the caldera and out to the coast.
• Point Danger Lookout: At the tip of the headland, this spot provides sweeping ocean views and is a prime whale-watching vantage point during migration season (June–November).
• Rainbow Bay & Snapper Rocks: World-class surfing breaks that are part of the famous Superbank — even if you don't surf, watching the pros from the beach is mesmerising.
• Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre: A bright, airy gallery showcasing local and Australian art, with a dedicated centre to the late painter Margaret Olley.
• Hastings Point: A quieter beach ideal for swimming, with a rock pool at low tide and a chance to spot sea turtles in the clear waters.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal to soak up the coastal atmosphere, tackle a sunrise hike up Mount Warning, and explore the nearby national parks. If you're short on time, a long weekend allows a relaxed pace — spend one day on the beaches and headlands, another in the hinterland, and a third pottering around the town and riverfront. The area is compact enough that you can base yourself in Tweed Head and day-trip to Byron Bay or the Gold Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Byron Bay: A 30-minute drive south, with its famous lighthouse, lively markets, and excellent dining scene.
• Gold Coast: Just across the border in Queensland, offering theme parks, surf beaches, and the buzzing nightlife of Surfers Paradise.
• Nimbin: A quirky hippie town in the hinterland, known for its alternative culture and the Nimbin Museum.
• Murwillumbah: A charming country town on the Tweed River, with art deco buildings and access to the Tweed Valley.
• Border Ranges National Park: Ancient rainforest with walking trails, waterfalls, and incredible birdlife — part of the Gondwana Rainforests.

Please check official sources for current details.