Broadwater National Park

Stretching along a pristine stretch of the NSW north coast, Broadwater National Park is a serene coastal haven where lush paperbark swamps meet sweeping beaches and rocky headlands. Just south of Evans Head, this is a place for quiet immersion in nature — think bird-filled wetlands, uncrowded surf breaks, and walking trails that reveal ancient landscapes. It’s the kind of park that rewards those who slow down, offering a genuine taste of the region’s raw beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Broadwater Beach: A long, wild stretch of sand ideal for solitary walks, beach fishing, and watching the waves roll in. The southern end is patrolled in summer, but the rest feels gloriously remote.
• Paperbark Swamp Walk: A short boardwalk loop leading through a fragrant paperbark forest and freshwater swamp — a magnet for waterbirds such as egrets, spoonbills, and black swans. Bring binoculars.
• Rocky Headland Lookout: At the park’s northern end, this vantage point offers sweeping views of the coast from Evans Head to Cape Byron on a clear day. Prime whale-watching spot from June to November.
• Evans Head Lookout: Just outside the park boundary, this headland provides a stunning panorama of the Richmond River mouth and the park’s coastal fringe.
• Camping at Banyula: Basic campground nestled among coastal banksias, with direct access to the beach. It’s first-come, first-served and wonderfully low-key.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a half-day is enough to explore the main highlights — take the swamp walk, stroll the beach, and gaze from the lookout. But if you’re keen on fishing, birding, or simply soaking up the coastal quiet, consider a full day and pack a picnic. Overnight campers can stretch it into a serene two-day escape, especially if you time it with a sunrise or sunset walk along the beach.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Evans Head: A laid-back seaside town with a historic fishing village vibe, excellent cafes, and a lovely riverfront — perfect for a post-park lunch or a kayak on the Richmond River.
• Bundjalung National Park: Just north, this larger park offers more walking trails, the famous Black Rocks, and the Iluka Nature Reserve with its World Heritage rainforest.
• Ballina: South along the coast, Ballina has the Big Prawn, beautiful beaches, and the Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum — a good stop for families.
• Richmond River: Explore the river by kayak or boat from Evans Head — it’s a peaceful waterway fringed by mangroves and teeming with birdlife.
• Byron Bay: About an hour’s drive south, Byron offers iconic surf, the Cape Byron Lighthouse, and a vibrant food scene — a lively contrast to Broadwater’s serenity.

Please check official sources for current details.