For those seeking a quintessential Australian coastal holiday, look no further than the ever charming Crescent Head. Here you will discover a sleepy seaside hamlet on the Macleay Coast, famed for its world class surf breaks and its magnetic natural beauty. I just spent a totally stress-free weekend there and can attest that Crescent Head is a fab destination to escape from the daily grind and unwind by the sea.
Think rolling surf waves, casual seaside eateries, perhaps a spot of golf and of course, a daily vitamin sea fix spent in totally relaxed state on the pristine white sand beach. It’s a destination well suited to couples looking to reconnect in a romantic yet casual setting. Families too adore the areas pleasant range of activities here.
Outdoor adventures available at Crescent such as; kayaking in the crystal clear estuary, a spot of rock fishing and/or a gentle hike around Big Hill Rainforest walking track only add to Crescents overall attraction.
Crescent Head’s mid north NSW location makes it top spot to break up a Sydney to Brisbane road trip (or vice versa).
Many travellers choose to stay at the caravan park (absolute prime beachfront land) or hire a private home for the duration of their stay. It all depends on your preferred style of holiday, right?
Cafe’s & Dining
If you’re expecting silver service and city prices, then you’re going to be surprised for Crescent Head is a very small community with a country feel. Sure, there may be limited dining options but the eateries that are here are terrific. Here’s my rundown the best places to eat in Crescent Head.
Blackfish Café the go to eatery for a deluxe breaky and a bold barista coffee. Frequented by locals and tourists alike. Friendly staff and a chilled vibe. FYI – this place is a front runner in my unofficial ‘best veggie burger’ on the east coast poll.
Pandanus Cafe a contemporary wine bar come tapas sharing gem. Boasts an extensive (and affordable) wine list with vino’s from premier domestic and international regions. The menu flows with fresh and seasonal produce and all dishes are designed to be shared with companions. I loved the locally sourced crustacean plate of salt & pepper soft shell crab and garlic sesame, kafir lime & chili banana prawn skewers. Vegetarians are well catered for here too.
Bamboo Chinese Restaurant (Crescent Head Country Club) great for family gatherings and huge after beach day feeds. Go all in for banquet dining and/or a mix of classic Chinese meals.
Barnett’s Bakery this establishment has been trading through five generations, so they’ve got their product proper dialled. Excellent coffee, yummy pastries, healthy wraps and sandwiches and, of course their celebrated meat pie.
Travel Tip; the butcher next door is a star too, I regularly visited both places to stock up for my beachside bbq’s.
Surfari’s Surf Retreat
Surfaris welcomes lifestyle enthusiasts. Friends, families, surfers, creatives and ocean people. You can suck the marrow out of the day, or turn back the pace and cruise. Time slows down as you sink the vibe of the bush. Prepare to reset. You’ll feel a moment of effortless zen that will carry into the times ahead. You’ve arrived. And all that awaits are world-class waves and more adventures than you can poke a stick at.
Check out their upcoming retreats here – https://surfaris.com/events/
Crescent Head Activities
Connecting with nature sure does rank highly in today’s busy society. Why not check out of regular life and check into an upscale surf shanty for some well-deserved fun in the sun. Crescent Head tends to permeate a sense of freedom complimented by an omnipresent sea breeze. Fill your days with fishing expeditions – beach, rock and estuary spots are all popular here.
Or, tee off at the unique 6 hole golf course perched high on the headland (green fees; Adults $16 & under 12’s just $6 for the day). How about a learn to surf lesson at Crescent Head too! Want to focus on health and wellness? Great, book a mobile massage therapist for a blissful experience. And, be sure to swim in Crescent’s inviting sea regularly – for saltwater therapy really is a cure all.
Stay
I love to entertain outdoors and thus I chose to book the aptly named ‘Big Wednesday’ – a grand ol’ Queenslander situated right in the centre of this laid back surf hamlet. Upon arrival I was thrilled to note the spacious wraparound veranda featured amazing sunset vistas.
The owners of the property sure to have an eye for design. Inside a thoughtful blend of pastel tones and bright colorways truly compliment this home. The three bedrooms all featured slightly different themes that all align together to create a unique ‘Big Wednesday’ theme.
One of the first things you notice is the collection of retro surfboards articulately placed through the property – helping to shape each rooms identity really. Upon closer inspection the restoration of this lovely estate has most certainly been untaken by a dedicated designer. The hardwood floorboards emit a sense of comfort and history and the tiled areas with their striking prints underfoot easily catapult one back to childhood. For me the overall ambience here triggered those endless Summer memories of holidays spent at coastal towns reminiscent of Crescent Head.
Local Travel Tips
- The locals here a friendly lot with kind faces and a seemingly laconic approach to life. In saying that, one should always respect their tiny town, particularly in the surf, no one on earth likes a wave hog! Share the pointbreak swell accordingly to the line-up priority and you’ll have no worries.
- If you’re headed north next be sure to take the scenic coastal drive to neighbouring South West Rocks. It’s a far prettier route than the highway commute with its vast stretches of lush green paddocks, flowing waterways and rustic cottages lining the way.
- South bound travellers should definitely put Point Plummer on their road trip itinerary. It’s super close to Crescent and has a bunch of wildly beautiful beachside campgrounds.
Luxe Surf Style 
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