Hallidays Point

Hallidays Point is a serene coastal stretch on the Mid North Coast of NSW, offering a slower pace and uncrowded beaches that feel like a well-kept secret. This is a place for long walks on sand, spotting migrating whales from clifftops, and exploring pockets of remnant rainforest. The area comprises several small villages – Black Head, Red Head, Diamond Beach and Tallwoods – each with its own character but sharing that same easy-going beachside vibe.

Highlights & What to See

• Black Head Beach: A patrolled swimming beach backed by a grassy reserve, perfect for a family day out. The headland offers a short walk with panoramic ocean views and excellent whale-watching from June to November.
• Red Head Nature Reserve: A coastal wonderland of dramatic rock platforms, secluded coves and a 3km walking track that winds through coastal heath and banksia scrub. Keep an eye out for sea eagles and dolphins.
• Diamond Beach: A long, wild stretch of sand popular with surfers and horse riders. The southern end is dog-friendly (on-leash), making it a great spot for a morning walk with your four-legged mate.
• Khappinghat National Park: Just south of Hallidays Point, this park protects a large estuarine system and offers excellent kayaking, birdwatching and bushwalks through spotted gum forest.
• Tallwoods Village: A boutique residential estate with a Greg Norman-designed golf course, a winery and a café – a surprising little hub of good food and wine in the middle of the bush.

Suggested Time to Spend

Hallidays Point is best enjoyed over a relaxed weekend. Two to three days allow you to explore the different beaches, hike a few coastal trails, and enjoy a meal at one of the local cafés. If you're on a road trip between Sydney and Byron Bay, it's a perfect overnight stop to break the journey and soak up some genuine coastal calm.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster & Tuncurry – 20 minutes north, these twin towns offer the Booti Booti National Park, the Great Lakes and a lively waterfront dining scene.
• Old Bar – 15 minutes south, a laid-back beach town with a famous surf break and a lovely coastal reserve walk.
• Port Macquarie – 35 minutes south, a larger town with the Koala Hospital, the historic Gaol and a buzzing food scene.
• Myall Lakes National Park – 45 minutes south-west, a vast system of lakes, rivers and forests perfect for canoeing, camping and fishing.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – 20 minutes north, home to the iconic 'Diamond Head' headland and beautiful coastal walks.

Please check official sources for current details.