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HAT HEAD VISITOR GUIDE
EXPLORE HAT HEAD
Hat Head is one of the many beautiful beaches located in Macleay Valley located near South West Rocks. The natural paradise is a must for those travelling in the area. The beaches, sand dunes, rainforest and wetlands offer an ideal backdrop for bushwalking, camping or a quiet picnic. Hat Head is a semi-isolated coastal location, making it the perfect spot to get away from large crowds, and is certainly a favourite choice with locals.
ADVENTURE
Korogoro Creek is a sight to behold at high tide, with its pristine turquoise clear waters. Pack your snorkels and fishing gear and set up on the sand beside the creek for a day in the great outdoors. In summer, snorkelers will spot tropical fish that won’t be seen any further south than Hat Head. The beach is also an ideal spot to hit the waves. Simply relax and swim in the safety of the serene Hat Head Beach with the kids. Take a breath of fresh air and get ready for a fantastic outdoor, nature-based holiday. Bushwalkers can head out on the 2km Korogoro Point bush walk, which will take you from the town reserve through coastal rainforest delivering breathtaking views en route. For those looking to really get the blood pumping, take the 15km walk to Smoky Cape Lighthouse along the beach.
Take a day trip to Gladstone! Only 15 min drive from Hat Head. Gladstone is a local hotspot, while you are in the Macleay. The quaint village is home to 19 beautifully preserved buildings that host local art galleries, an emporium, artisan finds and boutique shopping sourced both locally and internationally. Stretching along the banks of the Macleay river it is a relaxing and beautiful village making shopping a delightful experience. The Gladstone Hub is a collective of businesses offering carefully crafted handmade products, gifts, coffee and wholesome health food. After exploring, dine out at one of the many cafes, restaurants or the local pub.
For an extra treat to the retail senses, visit on Gladstone Quality Market day, which falls on the third Sunday of the month at Gladstone Park.
ACTIVITIES
There are some key surfing spots all around the country and Hat Head has some surfing opportunities for its guests. There’s something really special about the smell of ocean air combined with riding out an incoming wave in the summer sun. Surfing at Hat Head is best when the sand bars are just right. Specifically, around the righthand beach break where swells can reach around 3 metres and travel in a southwestern direction. For those who love to fish, head to The Island, Bird Rock or Spinning Ledge to catch tuna, mackerel and more. Hat Head has a boat ramp and fish cleaning facilities, which means you can enjoy your catch for dinner. If you’re after a heart-pumping trek, then grab your hiking boots and head for Gap Beach walking track, in Hat Head National Park. Near South West Rocks, it’s a great walk for experienced bushwalkers, birdwatchers, and those who love a challenge.
FOOD & WINE
Looking for a quick and easy meal after going for a swim? Then head to Hat Head Top Shop. The classic Aussie fish and chip shop is the spot to buy a hamburger, and other hot foods. Sit outside or grab your takeaway and have a nice picnic at the park or the beach.
Looking for cold beer, delicious food, friendly people, and a great atmosphere! Hat Head Bowling Club is open every day during the school holidays for lunch and dinner. Why not plan your special occasion at the club and combine barefoot bowls with great food, cold beers, and good wines, or enjoy a splash in the surf or a walk around our stunning headland then head to the club to relax.