6 hidden stops on the NSW north coast
A road trip from Byron Bay to Newcastle takes you past some of New South Wales’ most beautiful national parks and beaches that are waiting to be discovered.
1. Brooms Head
For those wanting to slip off the radar, Brooms Head on Yaegl Country is an old-fashioned beach hideaway in Yuraygir National Park.
Colourful fibro shacks line the foreshore. Here, life revolves around tides, fishing and lazy afternoons.
On the way, explore the stunning Red Cliff, Grey Cliff and Lake Arragan areas before getting your bearings at Cakora Point or Brooms Head Lookout. Keep watch for whales and other wildlife at this vantage point.
Back Beach is a secluded and rugged contrast to the main beach and well worth exploring. The vast national park is also home to one of Australia’s longest coastal hikes – 65km following coastal emus’ ancient trails.
2. Emerald Beach
Before you hit Coffs Harbour, take a beat at Emerald Beach – one of the coast’s most enchanting small towns and beaches. Kangaroos graze casually at Look at me Now Headland, where a loop walk offers spectacular ocean views.
The town has great cafés, like the laid-back Emerald Beach General Store. There’s also a welcoming surf culture and scenery that feels untouched compared to its busier neighbours.
3. Valla and Scotts Head
With largely empty beaches and known for its café scene, the relaxed community of Valla is a must-stop for your itinerary. Check outt Nourish Café and Grocer and Beach House Providore for breakfast then visit South Valla Beach – a standout destination which is also perfect for a hike.
South of the river mouth lies Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park, jointly managed with the Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people. It’s a favourite with experienced surfers and beach fishers, while the calmer waters of Warrell Creek offer ideal conditions for kayaking.
Less than 30 minutes away you’ll find Scotts Head (pictured above main) – a charming beachside town wrapped around a point break. Families can swim safely in the protected main beach and kids will love to explore the Cungee Rock pool.
4. Crowdy Bay National Park
For a real treat, take the back roads through the wild coastal vegetation and pockets of forest between Crowdy National Park and Harrington Beach State Park.
Stroll the Diamond Head Loop, keeping an eye out for wildlife in the bush and, in season, whales breaching offshore.
Stop at the picturesque Crowdy Head for the rugged cliffs, rolling surf and the historic lighthouse where you can take in the sweeping ocean views.
Sitting at the northern mouth of the Manning River, the village of Harrington offers a peaceful escape to spend your days fishing, swimming and surfing.
5. Hallidays Point
Further south, spend a few days soaking up the small but spectacular headland reserve of Saltwater National Park which has special significance for the Biripi people. This is a peaceful stretch of coastline where beaches, vegetation and wetlands meet, offering uncrowded swimming spots, fishing and walks rich in birdlife.
The Hallidays Point area, located between Taree and Forster, includes the 6km-long Diamond Beach. This largely undiscovered stretch attracts morning surfers, walkers and the occasional pod of dolphins. Tackle the rainforest walking track from the southern end of Diamond Beach onto the small but pretty Shelly Beach at Red Head and plunge into the ocean pool at Black Head.
6. Myall Lakes National Park
Take a short detour from the Pacific Highway near Bungwahl to this national park which is home of the Worimi Aboriginal people and one of the state’s largest and most pristine coastal lake systems.
Canoe, fish for bream and whiting and take the vehicle ferry at Bombah Point across the lake.
Continue to the sleepy Blueys Beach, Boomerang Beach or Elizabeth Beach. The latter feels particularly tucked away, bordered by bush and loved for its calm and sheltered swimming. If you’re after an even more secluded swim, a short trail leads to Shelly Beach – a cove with pale sand and turquoise waters. Disappear into these coastal hideaways – take on a hike, get into the surf or just sit back and relax.