Nestled on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, Scotts Head is a picturesque seaside village that offers visitors a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere.
It is best known for its stunning coastline, pristine beaches, and breathtaking ocean views, which make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a relaxing getaway or outdoor recreational, coastal experience.
Whether you’re a keen surfer, a nature lover, or simply seeking some respite away from the pressures of everyday life, Scotts Head has something for everyone.
In this article, we will explore the best things to see and do in Scotts Head, from traversing the rugged coastal trails and enjoying the local cuisine to whale watching and surfing some of the best waves on the east coast of Australia.
So, pack the car, put on your sunglasses, and get ready for a road trip to remember!
Where is Scotts Head?
Scotts Head is a quaint coastal village about 485 km north of Sydney and 130 km south of Coffs Harbour.
The village sits between the Pacific Ocean and the Nambucca River and is part of the Nambucca Shire Council.
It is a popular holiday destination for residents of New South Wales and Queensland due to its stunning natural beauty and relaxed coastal lifestyle.
How To Get To Scotts Head
Scotts Head can be reached in several ways.
From Sydney, you can take a flight to Coffs Harbour Airport and then hire a car to drive the remaining 1.5 hours to Scotts Head.
Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus from Sydney to Kempsey and then transfer to a local bus that services Scotts Head. This option may take longer but can be more affordable.
If you intend to drive from Brisbane or Sydney, you can take the Pacific Highway and then follow the signs to Scotts Head. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours in each direction, depending on traffic. However, there are lots of interesting places you can stop at on the way.
Finally, if you are travelling from within the region, you can take a local bus or drive to Scotts Head from nearby towns such as Nambucca Heads, Macksville, or Bowraville.
Regardless of how you get there, the journey to Scotts Head is a scenic one, characterised by stunning coastal views and lush green countryside along the way.
What To Do in Scotts Head
Once at Scotts Head, you’ll find there are plenty of things to see and do to keep you occupied. Here are some of the main activities you can enjoy:
Beaches
Most people come to Scotts Head for its beautiful beaches, of which there are plenty.
Overall, the area offers a range of different beaches to suit all preferences, from calm and sheltered coves to open stretches of surf beaches. One of the most popular beaches in Scotts Head is Main Beach, a long, sandy beach that offers great swimming, surfing, and fishing opportunities. The beach is patrolled during the summer months and is known for its clean and clear waters, making it a great spot for families.
For those looking for a quieter, more secluded beach experience, Little Beach is a lovely option. A sheltered cove, it is protected from the wind and waves, making it a great spot for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing in the sun.
Another popular beach in Scotts Head is Wakki Beach, a secluded and pristine beach that can only be accessed on foot. This beautiful beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers stunning views of the ocean, making it a great spot for a picnic or a peaceful day by the sea.
Surfing
Scotts Head is a popular destination for surfers, thanks to its excellent surf conditions and variety of breaks suitable for all skill levels. The beach at Scotts Head is a long, sandy beach that offers several different peaks for surfers to choose from. The southern end of the beach is generally better for beginners, while the northern end is more suitable for experienced surfers.
One of the best surf breaks at Scotts Head is the point break, which is located at the northern end of the beach. The point break offers long, clean waves that are ideal for longboarding and has been known to produce waves over six feet in height. The break is best on a southeast swell and a mid to high tide.
In addition to the point break, there are several other surf breaks in the area, including Wakki Beach and Little Beach, which are both popular with local surfers. Wakki Beach offers a variety of peaks suitable for both longboarding and shortboarding, while Little Beach offers a smaller, more sheltered wave that is ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.
If you’re new to surfing, there are several surf schools in the area that offer lessons and equipment hire. Additionally, Scotts Head is also a great place to meet other surfers and enjoy the laid-back surf culture of the NSW coast.
Fishing
Scotts Head is a popular fishing destination for both locals and visitors, offering a range of fishing opportunities from the beach, rocks, and the nearby river.
One of the most popular fishing spots in Scotts Head is the beach, which is a long, sandy stretch that
offers plenty of space for anglers to cast their lines. The beach is known for its variety of fish species, including bream, whiting, flathead, and tailor. The best time to fish from the beach is generally early morning or late afternoon when the tide is low.
Another popular fishing spot in Scotts Head is the rocks, which can be accessed from either end of the beach. The rocks offer a range of species, including luderick, drummer, and bream. It’s important to exercise caution when fishing from the rocks, as they can be slippery and dangerous, especially during high tide.
The nearby river, the Nambucca River, is also a great spot for fishing. The river is home to a range of fish species, including flathead, bream, whiting, and bass. The best way to get onto the river is by boat, and there are several boat ramps in the area providing easy access.
If you’re new to fishing or don’t have your own equipment, there are several fishing charter operators and tackle shops in the area that offer gear hire and guided tours.
Bushwalking
Yarriabini National Park, located near Scotts Head, is a beautiful natural park that offers a collection of bushwalking trails for visitors to explore. The park features a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tall eucalyptus forests, heathlands, and rainforest gullies, and is home to a range of bird species, wallabies, and other wildlife.
One of the most popular bushwalking trails in the park is the Yarriabini Lookout Walk, a 1.5 km return walk that takes visitors to the park’s stunning lookout. The walk takes approximately 45 minutes to complete and is suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, walkers will pass through breathtaking tall eucalyptus forests and pockets of rainforest.
For more experienced hikers, the Yarriabini circuit is a 10km loop track that takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The walk takes visitors through a range of different landscapes, including tall eucalyptus forests, heathlands, and rainforest gullies, and offers stunning views from the lookout.
The Gumma Garra walk is another popular bushwalking trail in the park, offering a 3km return walk through rainforest gullies and along the banks of the Warrell Creek. The walk is known for its stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, making it a great option for a hot day.
If you’re planning on visiting Yarriabini National Park for bushwalking, it’s important to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and pack a hat and sunscreen. It’s also recommended to check the weather conditions before setting out, as the trails can become slippery after rain.
Whale Watching
During the months of May to November, Scotts Head is an excellent destination for whale watching.
At this time, the area accommodates a range of different whale species, including humpback whales, southern right whales, and even occasional sightings of orcas who migrate to warmer waters towards the northern part of Queensland.
When this takes place, there are several different ways to spot the whales, including from land-based vantage points or from a boat. One of the most popular land-based vantage points for whale watching in Scotts Head is from the headland, which offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean.
Visitors can also take a walk along the coastal tracks, such as the Yarriabini Lookout Walk, which provides excellent views of the coastline and may offer sightings of passing whales.
For those looking to get up close to the whales, there are several whale-watching tours that depart from nearby towns such as Nambucca Heads and Coffs Harbour. These tours offer a chance to see the whales almost within touching distance and learn about their behaviour and migration patterns from experienced guides.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Not far from Scotts Head, the calm waters of the Nambucca River are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
The river is home to a range of different wildlife, including dolphins, turtles, and a variety of bird species, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Throughout its course, there are several different launching points for watercraft onto the river. One popular route for kayaking and paddleboarding is from Macksville to Nambucca Heads, which takes around 2-3 hours and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
Another popular route is from the Nambucca River mouth upriver towards Bowraville, which is a more challenging paddle but offers a chance to explore some of the quieter and more secluded parts of the river.
For those looking for a more guided experience, there are several local tour operators that offer guided kayaking and paddleboarding tours of the Nambucca River. These tours provide an opportunity to learn about the local wildlife and history of the area and may include stops at scenic locations along the river.
Alternatively, if you would prefer to venture out independently, you can rent watercraft equipment at several outlets in town.
Local Markets
The Scotts Head Markets is a popular event that takes place on the 2nd Saturday of each month at the Scotts Head Bowling Club. The markets are a great opportunity to shop for unique and locally made goods, as well as to support local businesses and artisans.
Featuring a range of stalls, they sell everything from handmade crafts and jewellery to fresh produce and baked goods. Visitors can also browse the stalls at their leisure, sample some delicious local food, and pick up some souvenirs or gifts to take home.
In addition to the stalls, the Scotts Head Markets also feature live music and entertainment, making it a fun and festive atmosphere for all ages. There are often activities for kids, such as face painting and balloon twisting, and the markets provide a great opportunity to meet and socialise with other members of the local community.
The market is located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by lush greenery and with views of the ocean in the distance. Not only a great way to support local businesses but also a chance to experience the unique charm and character of the town.
Where To Stay in Scotts Head?
For those who want to stay for a night or a few, Scotts Head offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay in Scotts Head:
Reflections Holiday Parks Scotts Head: This holiday park is located right on the beachfront and offers a range of cabins, camping, and caravan sites.
The Headland: The motel-style accommodation resides on the headland overlooking Scotts Head and offers comfortable rooms and stunning ocean views.
Scotts Head Beach House: This private holiday home is located just a short walk from the beach and offers spacious living areas and a fully equipped kitchen.
The Deck on South: This modern holiday apartment is situated in the heart of Scotts Head and features a private balcony with spectacular ocean views.
Drifted Away: This unique accommodation option is a floating cabin situated on the Nambucca River, near Valla Beach. It offers a peaceful and secluded getaway.
This is just a small selection of the many accommodation options available in Scotts Head. Wherever you choose to stay, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak holiday periods, to avoid disappointment.
Where To Eat in Scotts Head?
Scotts Head has a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. Some of the most popular places to eat include:
Scotts Hub: This cosy restaurant and bar offer a range of international dishes, including Thai curries, Mexican tacos, and Italian pasta dishes.
Club Scotts: The local bowls club presents a delicious menu of dining options that include a bistro, cafe, and restaurant that serves up internationally-inspired cuisine.
Scotts Head Sushi: A Japanese eatery that offers a delightful range of sushi rolls, tempura dishes, and other far eastern specialities.
Tasty Bites Bakery & Cafe: Located in the Reflections Holiday Park, this wonderful bakery has all your favourite pies, sausage rolls, pasties and sweet treats.
@J Cafe: Cool eatery whose menu includes a delicious range of burgers, wraps and fish and chips.
Conclusion
Overall, Scotts Head is a charming coastal village to visit for a day trip or a longer getaway. Offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, there is something for everyone to do in this beautiful part of New South Wales.
With its stunning beaches, scenic walking trails, and friendly community, Scotts Head is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous break.
Furthermore, as there are also plenty of accommodation and dining options available, you can easily plan a trip to Scotts Head to suit your budget and preferences.
All that’s left for you to do now, is to go right ahead and do it!