17 Unique Things To Do In Tweed Heads

Tweed Heads, quietly making a comeback on the NSW North Coast, now boasts a collection of must-visit attractions, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination.

Nestled amidst natural splendour that stretches from the coast to the hinterland, there’s an abundance of things to do in Tweed Heads and surrounds. The Tweed beckons with its world-class luxury accommodation, renowned restaurants, and fun-filled adventures. You’ll wonder why you haven’t uncovered this paradise sooner. The best bit? It’s easily accessible from Gold Coast or Ballina airports, or just a short drive from Brisbane. Here’s our pick of the best things to do in Tweed Heads and beyond.

1. Tour, learn and taste local gin and rum at Husk Distillers

Distance from Tweed Heads: 20-minute drive

An absolute must-visit for an authentic Tweed experience, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled upon Neverland at Husk Distillers . On Sundays the scene is alive with happy patrons sipping cocktails under the sun, while families and couples lounge on the games lawn, relishing gourmet picnics and grazing platters – a testament to the locals’ pursuit of the good life.

kids running outside Husk Distillers — Head to Husk Distillers for fun family picnics. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delve into the captivating tale of Australia’s pioneering paddock-to-bottle Agricole rum distillery by reserving a tour, complete with an Ink Gin and tonic upon arrival, and a Husk rum tasting flight at the Barrell House. Open seven days a week with plenty of experiences on offer.

a couple enjoying rum tasting at Husk Distillers — Sign up for an incredible rum-tasting experience at Husk Distillers. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: Husk Distillers, 1152 Dulguigan Road, North Tumbulgum

2. Immerse in the arts at M-Arts Precinct

Distance from Tweed Heads: 30-minute drive

On the banks of the Tweed River, Murwillumbah stands as the creative and cultural epicentre of the Tweed, offering a multitude of engaging things to do. Experience the ingenious transformation of an industrial warehouse into M-Arts , a place where artists and art lovers come together amid a backdrop of creativity over delectable food and drinks.

Watch emerging artists, jewellers, and local makers in action at art studio pop-ups within shipping containers, or pop upstairs to Gallery DownTown – an extension of the Tweed Regional Gallery that aspires to make art more accessible to the community. Pick up a brochure at M-Arts and take a self-guided wander through town admiring charming Art Deco shopfronts and the historic buildings of Murwillumbah.

guests admiring artworks at Murwillumbah — Murwillumbah is the creative and cultural epicentre of the Tweed. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Address: M-Arts Precinct, Corner of Proudfoots Lane and Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah

3. Explore the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre

Distance from Tweed Heads: 30-minute drive

Perched with panoramic views of Tweed Valley and Wollumbin/Mount Warning, Tweed Regional Gallery features seven exhibition spaces, housing a rotating roster of shows, touring exhibitions, and the impressive permanent Margaret Olley Art Centre.

guests admiring artworks displayed on the walls at Tweed Regional Gallery — Admire outstanding artwork at Tweed Regional Gallery. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Explore the artist’s life and work, including a faithful recreation of her home studio, a captivating trove of paintings and household relics.

a couple visiting the yellow room at Margaret Olley Art Centre, Tweed Regional Gallery — The Yellow Room is a recreation of the home studio of artist Margaret Olley. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: Tweed Regional Art Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre, 2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah

4. Indulge in simple living at Farm & Co Kingscliff

Distance from Tweed Heads: 15-minute drive

At Farm & Co Kingscliff , a charming family farm, organic produce finds its way from the fields to the store and cafe.

cows roaming around Farm & Co Kingscliff — Unwind in a charming farm setting. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Citysiders will especially love wandering through the farm, embracing the country air, feeding the resident pigs and chickens, and stepping into the simple life amongst the sunflowers.

Address: Farm & Co, 529 Cudgen Road, Cudgen

5. Take in Mount Warning majesty at Mavis’s Kitchen

Distance from Tweed Heads: 45-minute drive

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Wollumbin/Mt Warning, Mavis’s Kitchen is an easy-going, country-style restaurant, housed in a stately old Queenslander on a 25-acre former dairy farm. The organic kitchen garden provides a substantial portion of the menu’s produce, and the culinary offerings are simple and delectable.

After your meal you can take a leisurely walk through the lush gardens, orchard, or lakeside, and revel in the serene ambience of this picturesque countryside haven. Ideal for a family catch-up or lovers’ lunch.

scenic country views of Mount Warning in the Tweed Range — The fog lifts to reveal the majestic beauty of Wollumbin/Mt Warning. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: Mavis’s Kitchen, 64 Mt Warning Road, Uki

6. Vintage forage at Heath’s Old Wares

Distance from Tweed Heads: 35-minute drive

Take the scenic drive to Burringbar and embark on a treasure hunt for vintage gems at Heath’s Old Wares . Known far and wide as a haven for antique enthusiasts, Heath’s showcases a rich array of vintage treasures, thoughtfully organised by category. For antiquing aficionados, follow ‘The Local Trail’, an expertly curated list of kindred stores assembled by Eva and Ross Heath, spanning from Chinderah Bay Antiques in the north to Ludo’s Old Wares in the south.

baskets on display at Heath's Old Wares, Burringbar — Find baskets of all kinds at Heath’s Old Wares.

Address: Heath’s Old Wares, 19–21 Broadway, Burringbar

7. Soak up mother nature at Ecoasis in Uki

Distance from Tweed Heads: 45-minute drive

Venture into the verdant hinterland to reconnect with nature at the sweet and serene Ecoasis , a short drive from the cute and quirky town of Uki.

a couple relaxing on the balcony at Ecoasis Retreat — Spend a romantic weekend at Ecoasis Retreat.

The self-contained treehouses are enveloped by the rainforest and feature private balconies for unwinding and savouring the breathtaking vistas of Mt Warning. Perfect for a relaxed, romantic stay.

a man on the balcony at Ecoasis Retreat — Disconnect from the world at Ecoasis Retreat.

Address: Ecoasis Resort, 55 Tatyewan Avenue, Smiths Creek

8. Taste the Tweed at Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese

Distance from Tweed Heads: 35-minute drive

A simple stop on a scenic hinterland tour, make sure to check out the Harnett family’s former dairy, Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese .

the property exterior of Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese — Step into Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese to sample creamy cheeses. (Image: Mick Campbell)

Stock up on lusciously creamy cheeses and local condiments or swing by for a paddock to plate tasting experience immersed in old-school Aussie charm – perfect for the whole family.

Address: Tweed Valley Cheeses, 6091 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar

9. Live it up at Halcyon House

Distance from Tweed Heads: 20-minute drive

Halcyon House truly lives up to its reputation as one of Australia’s premier boutique hotels. The former classic motel has undergone a remarkable makeover, thanks to the visionary interior designer Anna Spiro, to become a chic beachside retreat.

the pool at Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach — Relax by the pool at Halcyon House. (Image: Destination NSW)

Boasting 19 rooms and two luxurious two-bedroom suites, a heavenly day spa, and the renowned restaurant Paper Daisy , it’s definitely worth the visit for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

the Paper Daisy restaurant located within boutique hotel Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach. — Dine at Paper Daisy Restaurant located within the boutique hotel. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: Halcyon House, 21 Cypress Crescent, Cabarita Beach

10. Ride the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Distance from Tweed Heads: 25-minute drive

Ride or walk the enchanting Northern Rivers Rail Trail, a 24-kilometre scenic path connecting Murwillumbah and Crabbes Creek. Nestled within the World Heritage territory of Northern NSW, a leisurely bike ride takes just under two hours, and walkers can plan for a four-to five-hour stroll (one way). The route boasts 18 historic railway bridges, including five heritage gems, and leads through a tunnel adorned with the radiance of glow worms.

an aerial view of the historic railway bridge at Northern Rivers Rail Trail — Cycle the historic railway bridge. (Image: Kiff & Culture)

As you meander, you’ll enjoy tranquil rivers, sweeping panoramas with the majestic Mt Warning gracing the backdrop, and discover delightful cafes and a cosy pub along the way. It’s an idyllic outing for couples or families – and the path is wheelchair and pram-friendly.

Your adventure can commence in either Murwillumbah or Crabbes Creek, though Murwillumbah is more easily reached from Tweed. Bring your own wheels or you can easily hire a bicycle, and shuttles are available for your return journey if required.

two people riding their bikes along Northern Rivers Rail Trail — Go cycling under the shade of trees along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. (Image: Kiff & Culture)

Address: Murwillumbah Railway Station, 284 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah

11. Enjoy beachfront dining at Taverna Kingscliff

Distance from Tweed Heads: 15-minute drive

Discover delectable coastal dining at its finest in the Tweed. Nestled right on the Kingscliff beachfront, you’ll find Taverna , a charming modern restaurant serving Greek-inspired cuisine, set within the most adorable little cottage. Bougainvillea elegantly adorns the white-washed walls, adding to the enchanting coastal ambience, as you dine on the freshest produce from the local region. Ideal for date night, and if you find yourself in the area on a Sunday, the chef whips up an extra special ‘sustainable banquet.’ Open Thursday – Sunday for dinner.

Menu at Taverna Byron Bay — The spotlight is firmly on local produce here. (Image: Ryan Fowler Photography)

Address: Taverna, 22 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

12. Enjoy a picture-perfect picnic

Distance from Tweed Heads: Locations around the Tweed

Picnic amidst the great outdoors with the award-winning Blue Ginger Picnics . With a range of group and couples’ packages to choose from across different locations around the Tweed, you could be sipping champagne with your lover on the beach or fishing and feasting with friends under the watchful gaze of Mt Warning. Founder Tania’s commitment to sustainability shines through in her customised menus, showcasing the very best offerings from the region’s top food producers, perfect for savouring in the open air. The idyllic backdrop is complemented by handmade plates, exquisite linens, and natural accents.

13. Soak up the rays at D’Bah

Distance from Tweed Heads: Right in the heart

Duranbah Beach, affectionately known as D’Bah by the locals, is a top surf destination along the Tweed Coast, offering up consistently good swells year-round.

a scenic morning view of Duranbah Beach, Tweed Heads — Catch the early morning waves at Duranbah Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

The most northerly beach in NSW, it’s just a skip and a hop to the Gold Coast and neighbouring town Coolangatta (which boasts some pretty good beaches too).

D’Bah is dog friendly and oozes laid-back surf vibes, drawing in families, surfers, and backpackers – especially in summer. Early birds will discover it’s among the prime spots to watch the breathtaking Tweed Coast sunrise.

14. Get off the beaten path at Fingal Head

Distance from Tweed Heads: 15-minute drive

For those yearning to escape the crowds and sink into serenity, a drive to Fingal is a must. This narrow strip of land, nestled between the Tweed River and the ocean, beckons you to explore its charm.

an aerial view of Fingal Head, Tweed — Fingal Head is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stroll by the lighthouse, take in the beautiful views, and enjoy a lazy afternoon at the quirky Sheoak Shack cafe/gallery overlooking the water.

scenic coastal views from Fingal Head at sunrise — Wake up early to admire dreamy sunrise views at Fingal Head. (Image: David Kirkland)

15. Walk on water at Ukerebagh Nature Reserve

Distance from Tweed Heads: 5-minute drive from Tweed’s centre

Best done in the drier seasons to avoid the mozzies and midges, a walk around the Ukerebagh Nature Reserve invites slow and steady steps as you explore peaceful eucalypt forests, mangroves, and a traditional Aboriginal bora ring. The trail is a cruisy 2.2 kilometres and can be explored solo or with the guidance of a local who will walk you through the cultural significance and history of the Walk on Water track. Visit the Minjungbal Museum and Cultural Centre before you begin to learn about the history of the area.

Address: 17 Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads South

16. Cruise the Tweed River

Distance from Tweed Heads: Right in the heart

Explore the waterways on a scenic river cruise with Tweed Escapes . Set foot on a classic ferry and gracefully navigate upstream along the relaxed river, whilst savouring stunning water and mountain views (you’ll find the best views of Mt Warning here). A range of cruise choices are available, from a leisurely two-hour excursion or an indulgent private charter, complete with all the bells and whistles.

friends kayaking on Tweed River — Enjoy an early morning kayak tour on Tweed River. (Image: Destination NSW)

17. Meander the markets

Distance from Tweed Heads: Right in the heart

Nestled by the charming waterfront of Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads offers day markets on the first Saturday of the month from 8am to 2pm, and twilight fun every second and fourth Friday from 4 to 8pm (from September to May). Bring a picnic blanket, get comfy, and dive into the chilled-out ambience as you feast and peruse the stalls. With music and a playground right next door, it’s the perfect recipe for a laid-back family day or evening out.

Jack Evans Boat Harbour Market — Shop the markets along the charming waterfront of Jack Evans Boat Harbour,

Address: Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Wharf St, Tweed Heads

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

17 unique things to do in Tweed Heads and beyond

Tweed Heads, quietly making a comeback on the NSW North Coast, now boasts a collection of must-visit attractions, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination.

1. Tour, learn and taste local gin and rum at Husk Distillers

2. Immerse in the arts at M-Arts Precinct

3. Explore the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre

4. Indulge in simple living at Farm & Co Kingscliff

5. Take in Mount Warning majesty at Mavis’s Kitchen

6. Vintage forage at Heath’s Old Wares

7. Soak up mother nature at Ecoasis in Uki

8. Taste the Tweed at Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese

9. Live it up at Halcyon House

10. Ride the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

11. Enjoy beachfront dining at Taverna Kingscliff

12. Enjoy a picture-perfect picnic

13. Soak up the rays at D’Bah

14. Get off the beaten path at Fingal Head

15. Walk on water at Ukerebagh Nature Reserve

16. Cruise the Tweed River

17. Meander the markets

Dive into summer with hikes, great bites and wellness in The Tweed

Found: a 1,000-bottle wine bar inside a secluded Northern Rivers rainforest retreat

Coco Pops coffee and Biscoff scrolls are luring city dwellers to a tiny Tweed Heads hole-in-the-wall

‘Australia’s best latte‘ is luring road trippers to this tiny village

Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Central Coast oyster experiences

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

Organic dining

Paddock-to-plate dining