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CRESCENT HEAD VISITOR GUIDE
EXPLORE CRESCENT HEAD
Crescent Head is a relaxed surfing town at the southern edge of the Macleay Valley, known for being one of the most famous surfing spots in the country. You will discover beautiful sandy beaches and lush national parks for bushwalking, camping and whale watching. Killick Beach is the place to be, which is Crescent Head’s most popular family beach as it provides easy access to the centre of town, plenty of parking, barbecue facilities and a playground for the children. It’s easy to see why Crescent Head is a favourite choice for family holidays or weekend getaways.
ADVENTURE
Enjoy bushwalking, swimming and fishing in the coastal national parks. To the south are Goolawah National Park and Limeburners Creek National Park, named for the lime created in colonial times from burning oyster shells. You’ll find significant Aboriginal cultural heritage sites in the parks that date back thousands of years. Positioned right on Goolawah Beach, the Racecourse campground puts you in pole position for exquisite scenic views and marine wildlife spotting. Surrounded by paperbarks and coastal banksia, protected from those gusting southerlies by Racecourse Headland, this beach camping spot is a secluded gem. Try the renowned surf break, go snorkelling or fishing, or see if you can spy a dolphin or two.
The Big Hill Rainforest walking track is a moderately challenging 1.4km loop with spectacular views. Starting at the picnic area by the beach, this short loop trail winds around the top of the headland, providing sweeping views of the pristine coastline and rocky shores below. The headland on the walk is a great vantage point for spotting whales between May and November.
ACTIVITIES
Whether you’re a social golfer or a seasoned professional, playing the six-hole course, the Crescent Head Country Club is arguably one of the best golfing experiences in Australia and a must while you’re in the Macleay Valley. With spectacular ocean views, and beautifully manicured grounds the Crescent Head Golf Course provides a picturesque location to play golf. On the water is where Crescent Head Learn to Surf was originated by legendary Australian long-boarder Dave Simons. Its tradition of good fun, surf and safety education and great results continue today. You can’t beat those amazing days on the point at Crescent during winter when the westerly is blowing, a southeast swell is running and the water is clear blue.
Looking for some retail therapy? Coastal Folk is a lifestyle store owned and operated by a local Crescent Head family. Handpicked items, reflect relaxed coastal qualities. Make sure to look out for ceramic coffee mugs, detailed cushions, rugs from wandering folk, funky serving utensils and a wide range of clothing.
FOOD & WINE
Barnetts Bakery to the perfect spot to enjoy a post-surf treat with one of the best pies and vanilla slices and doughnuts and…well let's just say the list goes on. The award-winning bakery simply is a must! Just down the road from the bakery is Blackfish Coffee here to give you your daily dose of the best that coffee has to offer. The Green Room Café and Fruit is another local spot, with healthy food, awesome coffee, smoothies and fresh fruit and vegetables. Pandanus Garden Bar and Restaurant offers a gorgeous dining setting, fabulous service, local produce and quality food. An added bonus is the craft beer on tap and a great selection of wines. Celebrating all things wonderful; Artisan gelato, local Seafood, craft beer, local vineyards, artworks, Australian designers, and international wines.
Another great spot is Lumah, located in the heart of Crescent Head fuelled by culinary passion. Lumah beats to the heart of pure food philosophy. Evolving and constantly changing, the small-batch menu depends on the season and the produce available in their own market garden. A paddock-to-plate practice guarantees customers authentic handcrafted regional cuisine.