Photo: Shiftchange / CC0
Stretching some 60 kilometres from Kingscliff to Pottsville, the Tweed Coast Walk is a spectacular multi-day hiking trail that hugs the pristine shoreline of northern New South Wales. This coastal gem rewards walkers with endless golden beaches, rocky headlands, and lush coastal heath, all while offering a genuine sense of escape. Unlike busier routes, this path feels wonderfully uncrowded, making it perfect for travellers seeking a peaceful connection with nature.
Highlights & What to See
- Kingscliff to Cabarita Beach: The easy opening section passes the Cudgen Nature Reserve, where you can spot sea eagles and wallabies, and enjoy sweeping views from Norries Headland.
- Cabarita Beach to Hastings Point: This stretch crosses the iconic Cudgen Creek via a footbridge, then winds through littoral rainforest before arriving at the rock pools and blowhole at Hastings Point.
- Hastings Point to Pottsville: The trail climbs over Rocky Point for dramatic ocean vistas, then drops into the quiet, surf-washed beaches around Pottsville, a charming village with a laid-back vibe.
- Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for dolphins, migrating whales (June–November), and the occasional sea turtle. The coastal heath is alive with wildflowers in spring.
- Indigenous heritage: The walk passes through Bundjalung Country, with several interpretive signs explaining traditional uses of plants and significant sites.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most walkers complete the full trail in three days, averaging 20 kilometres per day. This allows time for swims, photography, and exploring the small towns en route. If you prefer a shorter taste, the Kingscliff to Cabarita Beach section (about 12 km) makes an excellent day walk, with easy access to cafes and public transport at both ends. For a relaxed pace, plan for four days, staying overnight in holiday parks or B&Bs along the way.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Byron Bay: A 40-minute drive south, this iconic town offers world-class surf, the Cape Byron Lighthouse walk, and a vibrant food scene.
- Mount Warning (Wollumbin): For early risers, a sunrise hike up this ancient volcanic plug provides breathtaking views over the caldera.
- Gold Coast: Just 30 minutes north, the bustling Gold Coast offers theme parks, shopping, and the lush hinterland of Springbrook National Park.
- Nightcap National Park: Home to the magnificent Minyon Falls and ancient rainforest, ideal for a day trip from the Tweed Coast.
- Brunswick Heads: A sleepy river town with a lovely pub, good fishing, and calm waters for kayaking.
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Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Kingscliff — Dinkum / CC0
- Cabarita Beach — Poyt448, Peter Woodard / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Hastings Point — SteepSixx / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Pottsville — Dave Keeshan / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Byron Bay — Kpravin2 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Gold Coast — Jordan Gellie jordan_gellie / CC0