Nambucca Heads accommodation from AU$118

Halfway between Brisbane and Sydney and roughly a five-hour drive from each, Nambucca Heads is part of the Nambucca Shire, along with other towns like Bowraville and Scott’s Head. Once the home of the Gumbaingirr people, the region still has a large Indigenous population. With only about 6,000 people living there permanently, it’s very much a holiday town, and you’ll leave the hectic pace of the big city behind when you visit. Ever wanted to learn to surf? Nambucca Beach’s gentle waves will ease you into it without being scary. Or you can just take a dip in the clear blue waters. To soak up the beachside vibe without getting wet, explore the three-kilometre Gulmani boardwalk which takes you along the path of the river through beach and bush. If you really want to get acquainted with the river, take a river cruise and enjoy a BBQ lunch while you take in the sights. You might even spot some dolphins! Head to picnic-perfect Captain Cook Lookout or Rotary Lookout for some fantastic beach views.

Nambucca Heads has a variety of public art, included painted electrical poles along Bowra Street, a mosaic mural outside the local police station called ‘The River’ featuring colourful fish and a sculpture of an octopus, and The Vee Wall, a wall of rocks by the breakwater covered in public graffiti. It’s one of few places where you won’t get in trouble for leaving your own mark. For a cup of coffee, a bite to eat or a browse through some local stores, head to Nambucca Heads’ town centre, based around Bowra Street.

You can drive to Nambucca Heads on the Pacific Highway or catch a bus from Brisbane or Sydney. While you’re there, be sure to check out some of the other towns in the Nambucca Shire region. Macksville is home to historic pubs and Rotary Park, where there’s a gorgeous lily-covered lake. Taylor’s Arm is the place that inspired Slim Dusty’s hit single ‘A Pub with No Beer’ and although that might sound like a reason to stay away, don’t worry – the pub definitely has beer now! Ready to explore this fascinating shire? Book your Nambucca Heads accommodation with us and go where the flow takes you.