Things To Do on the Tweed Coast, NSW

Duranbah Beach (D'Bah) - Premier NSW Surf Break

Known affectionately as "D'Bah" by the local surfing community, this is the most northerly beach in New South Wales and a legendary surfer's paradise. The beach offers consistently excellent swells throughout the year, attracting dedicated surfers from around Australia and internationally. The sandbar formations create hollow, powerful waves perfect for experienced surfers, while the laid-back atmosphere combined with stunning sunrise views makes it equally popular with families, backpackers, and beach enthusiasts.

• Best For: Advanced surfing, spectacular sunrise photography, off-leash dog-friendly beach walks (designated areas)
• Surf Conditions: Consistent year-round swells, best at mid-tide, hollow barrels on NE swells
• Facilities: Free parking areas, outdoor showers, public toilets, nearby cafes and surf shops
• Special Features: Dog-friendly designated beach sections, excellent surf breaks for experienced riders, spectacular sunrise viewing, close to Gold Coast attractions
• Safety Note: Strong currents and rips - experienced swimmers only, check conditions before entering

Kingscliff Beach - The Crown Jewel

The undisputed jewel in the Tweed Coast crown, Kingscliff Beach features pristine white sand, year-round patrolled swimming areas, and a vibrant beachfront village atmosphere. The beach is backed by excellent cafes, award-winning restaurants, and boutique shops along the iconic Marine Parade, making it perfect for a full day combining beach activities and seaside dining. The natural rock pool at the southern end provides safe, shallow swimming ideal for young children and families.

• Best For: Safe family swimming, beachfront dining experiences, boutique shopping, people-watching
• Facilities: Year-round lifeguard patrol (daily during summer, weekends in winter), tidal rock pool, multiple cafes and restaurants, ample parking, outdoor showers, modern change rooms, BBQ facilities and picnic areas
• Swimming Conditions: Generally calm, patrolled beach with clear swim zones, rock pool perfect for toddlers
• Nearby Attractions: Marine Parade shopping and dining precinct, Salt Village lifestyle complex, coastal walking paths
• Events: Regular beach markets, Kingscliff Triathlon, community events throughout summer

Cabarita Beach - Family Paradise

A peaceful, exceptionally family-friendly beach offering calm waters perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and teaching children to surf. Cabarita Beach delivers a more relaxed, village vibe compared to its busier neighbors, with beautiful coastal walking trails and excellent cafes serving fresh local produce. The beach stretches for approximately 3 kilometers of golden sand, with the southern end offering fascinating rock pools to explore during low tide.

• Best For: Young families, beginner swimming lessons, stand-up paddleboarding, leisurely coastal walks, quiet beach days
• Beach Length: 3km of pristine golden sand
• Facilities: Surf lifesaving patrol (summer weekends), quality cafes and takeaway options, ample free parking, beach showers, public toilets
• Highlight Activities: Norries Headland coastal walking trail with panoramic ocean views, rock pool exploration at low tide, learn-to-surf conditions
• Accommodation: Range of beachfront holiday apartments and boutique accommodation options

Fingal Head Beach - Historic Peninsula Gem

This hidden gem sits on a narrow, dramatic peninsula between the mighty Tweed River and the Pacific Ocean. Fingal Head offers two distinctly different beach experiences: the ocean beach featuring rolling waves perfect for surfing and body boarding, and the river beach with calm, protected waters ideal for families with young children. The historic Fingal Head Lighthouse, originally constructed in 1878, provides a stunning photographic backdrop and is accessible via a short, scenic walk from the beach.

• Best For: Surfing ocean waves, snorkeling around rocky headlands, fishing from beach or rocks, lighthouse photography, dual beach options
• Unique Feature: Two beaches in one location - choose ocean surf or calm river depending on conditions and preferences
• Facilities: Basic facilities including toilets, parking areas, public boat ramp for river access
• Special Features: Historic 1878 lighthouse with interpretive displays, excellent snorkeling around the headland rocks (when calm), productive fishing spots, relatively uncrowded even in peak season
• Wildlife: Dolphins frequently spotted in river mouth, sea birds, occasional whales offshore (May-Nov)

Other Notable Tweed Coast Beaches

• Pottsville Beach: Quiet southern Tweed beach perfect for surf fishing, beachcombing, and escaping crowds. Features natural rock formations and excellent seafood at local clubs.
• Hastings Point: Small, sheltered beach ideal for snorkeling and rock pool exploration. Popular with locals, less touristy atmosphere.
• Cudgen Headland Beach: Secluded beach accessed through Cudgen Nature Reserve. Pristine and often deserted, perfect for peaceful beach walks.

🐋 Humpback Whale Watching (May-November)

Between May and November each year, majestic humpback whales migrate along the Tweed Coast, traveling approximately 5,000 kilometers each way between the icy waters of Antarctica and the warmer breeding grounds near the Great Barrier Reef. This represents one of the longest migrations of any mammal on Earth, with over 30,000 whales passing the Tweed Coast annually during peak season.

For the ultimate bucket-list experience, Cooly Eco Adventures offers unique swimming-with-whales experiences, allowing participants to enter the water wearing snorkel gear and observe these magnificent 30-40 tonne creatures in their natural habitat—an incredibly rare and intimate wildlife encounter offered by very few licensed operators worldwide.

Land-based viewing is excellent from Point Danger Lookout, which sits on the NSW-Queensland border and provides panoramic 180-degree ocean views perfect for spotting whale spouts, breaches, and tail slaps.

• Migration Season: Northbound May-July, Southbound August-November (peak viewing July-September)
• Best Land Viewing Spots: Point Danger Lookout, Fingal Head Lighthouse, Norries Headland, all Tweed beaches
• Marine Tours: Half-day and full-day whale watching cruises departing from Tweed Heads
• Swimming Tours: Licensed swimming-with-whales experiences (age 8+, confident swimmers only)
• What to See: Spectacular breaching, tail slapping, spy hopping, pectoral fin slapping, mother-calf interactions
• Success Rate: 95%+ sighting rate during peak season (July-September)
• Booking: Book 2-4 weeks advance during peak season, weather-dependent cancellations possible

🐢 Swimming with Sea Turtles - Year-Round Adventure

The Tweed Coast's pristine, clear waters provide important habitat for several species of sea turtles, including green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and endangered loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta). These ancient mariners have inhabited Earth's oceans for over 100 million years, and encountering them in their natural environment is truly unforgettable.

Professional half-day snorkeling tours take participants to the best locations for respectful turtle encounters, with experienced marine guides ensuring wildlife interactions that don't disturb these protected species. Tours often combine turtle swimming with exploring vibrant coral gardens and spotting tropical fish, dolphins, and rays.

• Tour Duration: Half-day tours (approximately 3-4 hours including briefing)
• Best Time: Year-round encounters possible; warmer months (Oct-Apr) offer best water visibility and temperature
• Age Requirements: Suitable for confident swimmers aged 8+ (some operators 12+)
• Included: All snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, marine guide, light refreshments
• Conservation: All tours follow strict wildlife interaction guidelines to protect turtles
• Combo Tours: Often combined with dolphin watching and reef snorkeling
• Photography: Underwater cameras available for hire or BYO
• Success Rate: 80-90% turtle encounter rate depending on season and conditions

🚤 Tweed River Cruises & Experiences

The mighty Tweed River meanders 80 kilometers from its headwaters on the slopes of Wollumbin (Mount Warning) through subtropical rainforest, extensive mangrove systems, and fertile sugarcane fields, creating a spectacular, ecologically diverse waterway perfect for exploration.

Tweed Eco Cruises offers leisurely journeys showcasing the river's natural beauty and abundant wildlife, with sunset cruises providing particularly stunning photography opportunities as golden light illuminates the water and surrounding mountains.

For a more hands-on culinary experience, "Catch a Crab" eco-tours teach participants traditional crabbing techniques for catching delicious mud crabs, sand crabs, and spanner crabs. Your fresh haul is expertly prepared aboard the vessel, followed by visits to local oyster farms where you can enjoy freshly shucked Pacific oysters straight from the pristine waters—farm-to-table doesn't get fresher!

Alternatively, hire a fully-equipped houseboat from Berger Houseboat Holidays and captain your own floating accommodation. No boat license required—explore the river system at your own pace, stopping to fish, swim, or kayak whenever inspiration strikes. Perfect for families or groups seeking adventure.

• Cruise Options: Eco wildlife cruises, sunset dinner cruises, fishing charters, private charters, crabbing tours
• Wildlife Spotting: Bottlenose dolphins, white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys, Australian pelicans, water dragons, flying foxes
• Cruise Durations: 2-hour eco cruises to multi-day houseboat adventures
• Houseboat Capacity: 2-person romantic getaways to 12-person family vessels
• Departure Points: Tweed Heads Marina, Fingal Head boat ramp
• Best Time: Sunset cruises year-round; dolphin activity highest early morning
• Accessibility: Most cruise vessels wheelchair accessible with advance notice

🏄‍♂️ Surfing & Surf Schools

The Tweed Coast's geographic position and offshore reef systems create consistently excellent swells and a variety of surf breaks suitable for all ability levels, from complete beginners to professional surfers. The region has produced numerous champion surfers and hosts regular surfing competitions.

Duranbah Beach offers powerful, hollow waves ideal for experienced surfers seeking challenging barrels and high-performance conditions. Kingscliff provides gentler, more forgiving waves perfect for intermediate surfers developing their skills. Cabarita Beach delivers mellow, rolling waves excellent for beginners taking their first lessons.

Several professional surf schools operate year-round along the coast, offering group lessons, private coaching, multi-day surf camps, and surfboard/equipment rentals. Most schools guarantee first-timers will stand up on their first lesson!

• Best Surf Spots by Level:
  • Beginners: Cabarita Beach, Kingscliff southern end
  • Intermediate: Kingscliff main beach, Salt Beach
  • Advanced: Duranbah Beach (D'Bah), Fingal Head
• Surf Schools Available: Group lessons from $65, private coaching from $120, multi-day camps available
• Equipment Rental: Surfboards $25-40/day, wetsuits $15-25/day, packages available
• Best Surf Season: Year-round waves; optimal swells March-May and September-November
• Water Temperature: 18°C (winter) to 26°C (summer) - wetsuit recommended May-September
• Lesson Inclusions: All equipment, qualified instructors, safety briefing, beach insurance

🛶 Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

The Tweed Coast offers exceptional paddling opportunities in diverse environments—from calm river mangroves to protected beaches and coastal lagoons. Kayaking and SUP provide peaceful ways to explore wildlife habitats and access secluded spots unreachable by foot.

• Popular Paddling Locations:
  • Tweed River & Terranora Creek: Calm waters, mangrove tunnels, dolphin encounters
  • Cabarita Beach: Protected waters perfect for beginners
  • Cudgen Creek: Scenic paddling through nature reserve
• Rentals Available: Kayaks from $30/hour, SUPs from $25/hour, guided tours from $75
• Guided Eco Tours: 2-3 hour wildlife spotting tours through mangroves
• Best Time: Early morning for wildlife and calm conditions
• Suitable For: All ages and fitness levels (calm water options available)

🎣 Fishing Experiences

The Tweed region offers exceptionally diverse fishing opportunities from beach casting to deep-sea charter fishing. Target species include jewfish (mulloway), flathead, bream, tailor, and offshore species like marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi.

• Fishing Styles: Beach fishing, rock fishing, river fishing, deep-sea charters, estuary bait fishing
• Target Species: Jewfish, flathead, bream, whiting, tailor, kingfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna
• Charter Options: Half-day ($120-180pp), full-day ($200-300pp), overnight trips available
• Equipment: All tackle and bait provided on charters; rod rentals available for DIY fishing
• Best Seasons: Jewfish (winter), flathead (year-round), offshore pelagics (summer)
• Licenses: NSW recreational fishing license required ($7/day, $15/month, $45/year) - available online

🏔️ Wollumbin National Park (Mount Warning)

Rising 1,157 meters above sea level, Wollumbin (formerly known as Mount Warning) is the remnant central vent of the massive Tweed Volcano, an ancient shield volcano that last erupted approximately 23 million years ago. The enormous erosion caldera stretches across the entire Tweed Valley—over 40 kilometers in diameter—creating the region's distinctive landscape of radiating ridges and fertile valleys.

Important Cultural Note: The summit track is permanently closed out of respect for the profound cultural significance of Wollumbin to the Bundjalung Aboriginal people, for whom the mountain is a sacred ceremonial initiation site of deep spiritual importance. The closure is being managed in ongoing consultation with Aboriginal custodians through the Wollumbin Consultative Group. All visitors are respectfully asked to honor these wishes and not attempt to access the summit.

While the summit is closed, Wollumbin National Park remains open and offers beautiful World Heritage rainforest experiences:

• Lyrebird Track: Short 200m return walk through ancient World Heritage-listed rainforest to a scenic lookout (Grade 2 - Easy, 15 minutes)
• Breakfast Creek Picnic Area: Lovely spot for family picnics surrounded by towering subtropical rainforest, BBQ facilities, clean toilets
• Wildlife: Superb lyrebirds (morning calls), pademelons, brush turkeys, king parrots, crimson rosellas
• Viewing Wollumbin: Stunning mountain views available from Border Ranges National Park lookouts, Nightcap National Park, and Cape Byron Lighthouse
• Access: 14km west of Murwillumbah, 45 minutes from Tweed Coast
• Best Time: Early morning for lyrebird calls and misty atmosphere

🌳 Border Ranges National Park - Gondwana Rainforests

Part of the UNESCO Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, Border Ranges National Park protects spectacular mountain scenery, pristine ancient rainforests, and breathtaking lookouts offering panoramic views across the Tweed Caldera. The scenic rim drive (unsealed road, suitable for conventional vehicles in dry conditions) provides access to numerous viewpoints showcasing the Tweed Valley and distant coastal vistas.

• Flagship Species: Antarctic Beech (Nothofagus moorei) - remnant trees from Gondwana supercontinent, found nowhere else on Earth, over 2,000 years old
• Best Lookouts: Bar Mountain Lookout (360° views), Pinnacle Lookout, Blackbutts Lookout
• Walking Tracks: Antarctic Beech Picnic Area to Brindle Creek (2.4km return, Grade 3), Bar Mountain Track (200m, wheelchair accessible viewing platform), Pinnacle Lookout Walk (500m return through rainforest)
• Wildlife: Superb lyrebirds, red-necked pademelons, Australian brush turkeys, Richmond birdwing butterflies, pythons
• Scenic Drive: 51km loop (allow 2-3 hours), unsealed sections, 2WD suitable in dry weather
• Access: Via Kyogle or Murwillumbah, approximately 1 hour from Tweed Coast
• Facilities: Picnic areas, toilets, several campgrounds (bookings essential)
• Safety: Road can be closed after heavy rain; check conditions before departure

🪶 Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Gain profound insight into the rich 20,000+ year Indigenous heritage of the Tweed region at this important cultural center operated by the local Bundjalung people. The museum features authentic artifacts, comprehensive interpretive displays, and educational programs about Bundjalung culture, language, traditional practices, and ongoing connection to Country.

The spectacular "Walk on Water" boardwalk trail meanders 800 meters through protected wetlands and native coastal forest, with detailed interpretive signs explaining traditional bush tucker plants, medicinal uses, and sustainable Indigenous land management practices used for millennia.

Visitors can access a traditionally significant ceremonial site—a sacred bora ring where important cultural ceremonies and men's initiation rites were historically conducted. This rare opportunity to visit such a sacred site is granted with the permission and guidance of local Aboriginal custodians, making it a deeply meaningful cultural experience.

• Location: Tweed Heads Historical Site, Kirkwood Road, South Tweed Heads
• Opening Hours: Museum Monday-Thursday 10am-3pm; walking trails accessible daily dawn-dusk
• Boardwalk Length: 800m loop through wetlands (wheelchair accessible), allow 30-45 minutes
• Cultural Experiences: Bush tucker talks, didgeridoo performances, traditional dance (check schedule)
• Entry: Gold coin donation appreciated
• Essential: Bring insect repellent for boardwalk trails, especially dawn/dusk
• Best Time: Early morning for birdwatching and cooler temperatures
• Respect: Sacred sites require appropriate respectful behavior - follow all signage and guidance

🌿 Cudgen Nature Reserve

This coastal nature reserve protects critically important littoral rainforest (coastal rainforest), extensive wetlands, and pristine beach environments. The diverse ecosystems support exceptional biodiversity, making it a hotspot for birdwatching and nature photography.

Well-maintained walking trails wind through these diverse ecosystems, offering peaceful natural scenery and excellent opportunities to observe coastal wildlife in undisturbed habitats. The reserve provides important connectivity between the beach, wetlands, and hinterland forests.

• Walking Trails: Multiple track options from 1-4 kilometers
• Activities: Bushwalking, birdwatching, nature photography, beach access
• Wildlife: Over 200 bird species recorded including threatened glossy black cockatoos, wallabies, goannas, eastern water dragons
• Best For: Serious birdwatchers, nature photographers, families seeking uncrowded bushwalks
• Access: Near Hastings Point, free parking available
• Facilities: Walking tracks only - bring water, no toilets or facilities on trails
• Best Time: Early morning for bird activity and wildlife

🥃 Husk Distillers - Award-Winning Spirits

This internationally award-winning distillery has become an absolute must-visit Tweed destination, producing world-class agricultural spirits from locally grown sugarcane and botanical ingredients. Their flagship Ink Gin has won numerous international awards, while their pure cane rum rivals Caribbean classics.

Sunday afternoons see the venue transform into a vibrant social hub where locals and visitors sip expertly crafted cocktails, enjoy gourmet picnics on expansive lawns, and relax under the sun. The scene feels almost magical—like discovering your own personal paradise complete with exceptional drinks, stunning rural mountain views, and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere with lawn games and live music.

• Signature Products: Ink Gin (butterfly pea flower gin), Pure Cane Rum, agricole-style rum, liqueurs
• Activities: Guided distillery tours ($25pp), spirit tastings, cocktail masterclasses, self-guided tours
• Venue: Expansive cocktail gardens, gourmet food trucks (weekends), lawn games, live music
• Best Time: Sunday afternoons (12pm-5pm) for full social experience and live entertainment
• Location: Tumbulgum, 20 minutes from Tweed Coast beaches
• Tours: Daily 12pm, 2pm, 4pm (bookings recommended weekends)
• Family-Friendly: Children welcome on lawns; non-alcoholic refreshments available

🍽️ Beachfront Dining Excellence

The Tweed Coast's food scene rivals that of much larger tourist destinations, with strong emphasis on fresh local seafood, Tweed Valley produce, and innovative coastal cuisine.

Taverna in Kingscliff serves exceptional Greek-inspired coastal cuisine in a charming heritage cottage adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. Their celebrated Sunday "sustainable banquet" ($75pp) showcases the region's best seasonal ingredients with shared plates and natural wines.

• Top Restaurants: Taverna (Greek), Osteria (Italian), Salt Bar & Grill (modern Australian), Fleet (fine dining)
• Best Cafes: Paddock Bakery, Cabarita Beach Café, Wild Canary
• Seafood: Fish and chips at Kingscliff Beach, fresh oysters at Terranora Inlet
• Reservations: Essential for dinner Friday-Sunday, recommended all other times
• Price Range: Cafes $15-30, casual dining $30-50, fine dining $80-120

🧺 Blue Ginger Picnics - Luxury Pop-Up Dining

Experience the Tweed Coast's natural beauty with award-winning luxury picnics delivered to spectacular locations. Gourmet hampers featuring premium local produce, wine, champagne, and all the elegant trimmings.

• Locations: Secluded beach settings, riverside spots, hinterland rainforest locations
• Packages: Romantic couples ($250-400) to large groups (custom pricing)
• Inclusions: Gourmet food hamper, champagne/wine, setup and pack-down, elegant picnic furniture, bluetooth speaker
• Popular Occasions: Proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, hen parties
• Booking: Minimum 48 hours advance notice, weather-dependent

🥬 Farmers Markets & Local Produce

The Tweed's fertile volcanic soil produces exceptional tropical fruits, vegetables, and artisan products. The Murwillumbah Farmers' Market runs every Wednesday morning (7am-11am).

• Murwillumbah Farmers Market: Every Wednesday 7am-11am
• Kingscliff Markets: Regular weekend markets (check schedule)
• Local Specialties: Tropical fruits (avocados, macadamias, mangoes), coffee, honey, artisan bread
• Best Time: Arrive early (7-8am) for best selection
• Tips: Bring reusable bags, cash preferred by many stallholders

• Tweed Regional Museum: Learn fascinating local history through interactive exhibits in the original heritage-listed Tweed Heads Court House (1911) and historic Boyd's fishing shed. Entry by gold coin donation. Open Tue-Fri 10am-4pm.
• Natural Rock Pools: Safe shallow swimming areas at Kingscliff Beach and other locations perfect for young children to splash and explore marine life
• Coastal Walking Trails: Easy, paved paths suitable for prams, strollers, and young walkers. Cabarita to Norries Headland (2.2km) offers stunning ocean views.
• Epic Skate Rink: Indoor roller skating entertainment center for families. Sessions include music, lights, and arcade games. Located in Tweed Heads South.
• Beach Safety Programs: Most major beaches offer year-round lifeguard patrols and free kids' beach safety programs (Nippers) during summer school holidays
• Picnic Areas: Numerous parklands with free electric BBQ facilities, modern playgrounds, sheltered picnic tables, and clean toilets. Best: Kingscliff Foreshore Reserve, Cabarita Beach Park.
• Animal Encounters: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (20 min north) offers kangaroo feeding, koala encounters, and native wildlife shows

• Kingscliff Triathlon (March): Unique tide-assisted creek swim, riverside cycle course, and scenic coastal run attracting 1,000+ competitors
• Tweed Coast Blues Festival (September): Multi-day music festival featuring Australian and international blues artists
• Christmas Celebrations: Carols by candlelight on beaches, festive markets, New Year's Eve fireworks
• Farmers Markets: Weekly Wednesday markets in Murwillumbah, rotating weekend artisan markets
• Live Music Events: Regular performances at local pubs, clubs, and beachfront venues
• Studio Art Trails: Open studio weekends showcasing local artists and craftspeople
• Surf Competitions: Regular surfing events at Duranbah and Kingscliff beaches

⏱️ One-Day Tweed Coast Express Experience

Perfect for day-trippers or cruise ship passengers

• 6:30am: Spectacular sunrise at Duranbah Beach with coffee from beach kiosk
• 8:00am: Gourmet breakfast at award-winning Kingscliff beachfront cafe (Paddock Bakery or Wild Canary)
• 9:30am: Scenic coastal walk from Cabarita Beach to Norries Headland (2.2km, 45 mins)
• 11:00am: Beach time and swimming at patrolled Kingscliff Beach
• 1:00pm: Fresh seafood lunch at Salt Village Kingscliff or Taverna
• 2:30pm: Visit Point Danger Lighthouse for panoramic coastal views
• 3:30pm: Explore Fingal Head Lighthouse and dual beaches
• 5:00pm: Sunset cruise on Tweed River with wildlife spotting
• 7:00pm: Dinner at beachfront restaurant in Kingscliff

🌊 Three-Day Nature & Marine Adventure

Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts

Day 1 - Marine Focus:

• Morning whale watching cruise or swimming with turtles experience (May-Nov whales, year-round turtles)
• Lunch at beachfront cafe
• Afternoon beach time at Kingscliff with rock pool exploration
• Sunset viewing from Point Danger Lighthouse
• Dinner featuring local seafood

Day 2 - Hinterland Exploration:

• Visit Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and walk boardwalk trail (bring insect repellent)
• Drive Border Ranges scenic rim with stops at multiple lookouts
• Picnic lunch at Antarctic Beech area surrounded by ancient Gondwana trees
• Afternoon rainforest walk through World Heritage wilderness
• Return to coast for sunset beach walk

Day 3 - River & Relaxation:

• Morning Tweed River eco-cruise or kayaking adventure through mangroves
• Lunch at riverside restaurant
• Afternoon at Husk Distillers - tour, tastings, cocktails on lawn
• Evening beachfront dining at Taverna or Fleet restaurant

💑 Weekend Romantic Getaway

Perfect for couples and anniversaries

• Luxury Blue Ginger picnic at secluded beach location with champagne
• Couples spa treatments at beachfront resort (Mantra or Peppers)
• Sunset dinner cruise on Tweed River with premium dining
• Morning beach walk followed by leisurely brunch at Cabarita Beach Cafe
• Afternoon wine tasting or Husk Distillers cocktail experience
• Fine dining at award-winning Taverna or Fleet restaurant
• Sunrise yoga session on the beach (bookings available)
• Private scenic helicopter flight over coastline and hinterland

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Five-Day Family Adventure

Designed for families with children

• Day 1: Settle in, explore Kingscliff Beach and rock pools, fish and chips dinner
• Day 2: Surfing lessons at Cabarita Beach, coastal walk, ice cream, sunset at Point Danger
• Day 3: Day trip to Gold Coast theme parks (Warner Bros Movie World or Sea World, 30 mins)
• Day 4: Tweed River cruise with dolphin spotting, Minjungbal boardwalk, museum visit
• Day 5: Beach day with bodyboarding, picnic, final swim, departure

Beyond the pristine beaches, the Tweed Coast offers excellent shopping experiences from boutique fashion to local artisan markets:

• Kingscliff Marine Parade Village: Boutique fashion, homewares, surf shops, and artisan stores lining the beachfront. Features Australian designers, jewelry, art galleries, and specialty gift shops.
• Salt Village Kingscliff: Modern lifestyle precinct featuring designer outlets including Sass & Bide, Zimmermann, Gorman, plus quality cafes and homeware stores.
• Tweed City Shopping Centre: Major retail chains including Coles, Woolworths, Big W, and 60+ specialty stores.
• Weekend Markets: Murwillumbah Farmers Market (Wed 7am-11am) - fresh produce, artisan goods; Kingscliff Markets (monthly) - handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing
• Art Galleries: Multiple galleries featuring works by regional artists. Tweed Regional Gallery in Murwillumbah (30 min) features world-class collection (free entry).
• Surf Shops: Quality surf equipment, boards, wetsuits, beachwear at competitive prices
• Local Specialty: Macadamia products, local honey, coffee, Tweed-grown tropical fruits

The Tweed Coast's pristine natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere provide the perfect setting for wellness and rejuvenation:

• Beachfront Yoga & Meditation: Multiple operators offer sunrise and sunset yoga sessions on the beach, plus meditation workshops. Group classes from $25, private sessions from $80.
• Day Spas & Wellness Centers: Numerous luxury spas offering therapeutic massages, facials, body treatments. Popular: Osprey Spa (Peppers Salt Resort), Mantra on Salt Spa. Treatments from $120-350.
• Meditation & Retreats: Hinterland wellness centers offering meditation workshops and multi-day retreats in tranquil rainforest settings. Weekend retreats from $500-1,500.
• Health Food & Cafes: Excellent selection catering to various dietary preferences including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, paleo.
• Ocean Swimming: Experience therapeutic benefits of saltwater swimming. Early morning swimming groups meet daily at Kingscliff (free, all welcome).
• Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku): Immersive guided nature experiences in ancient rainforests scientifically proven to reduce stress. Half-day experiences from $100.
• Sound Healing: Regular sound bath meditation events using crystal bowls, gongs, and voice

The Tweed Coast is a photographer's paradise with exceptionally diverse subjects, dramatic light, and stunning natural beauty:

• Sunrise Locations: Duranbah Beach (spectacular ocean sunrise), Point Danger Lighthouse (first mainland light), Kingscliff Beach (golden reflections). Best Oct-Mar for sun rising directly over ocean.
• Sunset Spots: Tweed River (golden hour reflections), Point Danger (hinterland mountain backdrop), Fingal Head Lighthouse (dramatic silhouettes). Best Apr-Sep.
• Seascapes: Dramatic waves at Duranbah (long exposure), serene beach scenes at Cabarita, rock formations at Fingal Head
• Wildlife Photography: Humpback whales May-Nov (telephoto 300mm+ recommended), Dolphins year-round, Sea turtles (underwater housing), Abundant birdlife - sea eagles, ospreys, pelicans
• Landscape Photography: Wollumbin mountain views from Border Ranges, rainforest walks through ancient forests, Tweed River meanders, coastal headland panoramas
• Architectural Subjects: Historic Fingal Head Lighthouse (1878), Point Danger Lighthouse, charming beach village buildings
• Night Sky & Astrophotography: Dark sky areas in hinterland national parks perfect for Milky Way photography. Best Apr-Sep.
• Photography Tours: Guided workshops covering landscapes, wildlife, techniques. Half-day from $150.

The Tweed Coast is committed to providing accessible, inclusive experiences for all visitors:

• Beach Access: Kingscliff Beach features beach wheelchair hire (free, book with surf club), Beach matting pathways at major beaches, Accessible change rooms and showers
• Accessible Accommodation: Many hotels and resorts offer fully accessible rooms. Recommended: Peppers Salt Resort, Mantra on Salt, Beach Suites Cabarita.
• Parking: Designated accessible parking bays at all major beaches, lookouts, and attractions. ACROD permits honored.
• Walking Trails: Minjungbal Cultural Centre boardwalk - fully wheelchair accessible (800m loop), Kingscliff foreshore paths - paved, flat, Bar Mountain Lookout viewing platform - wheelchair accessible
• Tours: Many tour operators accommodate accessibility needs with advance notice. Tweed River cruises are wheelchair lift equipped.
• Public Facilities: Accessible toilets with change facilities at most major beaches and parks. Companion Card accepted.
• Public Transport: Surfside buses (Route 700) are wheelchair accessible
• Information: Contact Tweed Visitor Information Centre (07) 5536 4244 for specific queries

Help preserve the Tweed Coast's pristine natural beauty and support sustainable tourism for future generations:

• Leave No Trace: Take all rubbish with you from beaches and trails. Participate in beach cleanup events if available.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe from safe distances. Never feed wildlife. Report injured wildlife to WIRES: 1300 094 737.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Use mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen. Avoid chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate which damage coral and marine life.
• Support Local Economy: Choose local businesses, farmers markets, and eco-certified tour operators. Buy directly from producers.
• Protect Fragile Ecosystems: Stay on designated walking tracks to prevent erosion. Don't remove plants, rocks, or shells.
• Conserve Resources: Conserve water and energy at accommodation, Choose refillable water bottles, Bring reusable shopping bags, Dispose of recyclables properly
• Eco-Certified Operators: Choose tour operators with Ecotourism Australia certification
• Cultural Respect: Honor Aboriginal cultural sites with appropriate respect. Follow all guidance at Minjungbal Cultural Centre.
• Minimize Carbon Footprint: Consider carpooling for hinterland trips. Use local bus services. Offset flight emissions.