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

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

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

The tastiest new players on Newcastle’s dining scene you need to try

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

2. Destination dining

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

5. Newcastle nightlife