Hat Head National Park

Stretching along the dramatic coastline between South West Rocks and Crescent Head, Hat Head National Park is a wild and beautiful slice of the Mid North Coast. This is a place of rugged sea cliffs, sweeping beaches, and ancient coastal heathland, where the only soundtrack is the crash of waves and the call of sea birds. For travellers seeking solitude and raw nature away from the crowds, this park delivers in spades.

Highlights & What to See

• Hat Head Beach & Smoky Cape: A stunning crescent of golden sand backed by dunes and the iconic Smoky Cape Lighthouse. The walk from the lighthouse offers jaw-dropping views over the Pacific.
• Goolawah Camping Area & Lagoon: Pitch your tent beside the tranquil Goolawah Lagoon – a prime spot for kayaking, birdwatching, and swimming in the calm waters.
• Korogoro Point Walking Track: A 6 km return coastal trail that weaves through heathland and rainforest, with frequent whale sightings (June–November) and seabird colonies.
• Freshwater & Saltwater Creeks: Perfect for a peaceful paddle or a picnic; the creeks are home to a variety of birdlife and offer a sheltered alternative to the ocean.
• Hat Head Village: A tiny, unpretentious settlement with a general store and a boat ramp – the gateway to the park’s southern end.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a full day is enough to experience the park’s highlights – hike the Korogoro Point track in the morning, then cool off at Hat Head Beach or Goolawah Lagoon in the afternoon. If you’re a keen bushwalker or kayaker, consider an overnight stay at the Goolawah campground to fully soak in the coastal calm. The park is also a perfect half-day detour when driving the Pacific Highway between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• South West Rocks: Just north, home to the historic Trial Bay Gaol and excellent snorkelling at Fish Rock Cave.
• Crescent Head: A legendary surf break and a laid-back village with a great café scene.
• Port Macquarie: 45 minutes south, offering the Koala Hospital, coastal walks, and a vibrant foodie scene.
• Seal Rocks & Myall Lakes National Park: A longer detour south for pristine beaches and the largest coastal lake system in NSW.

Please check official sources for current details.