The splendid Macleay Valley Coast is picture-perfect in spring, so what better time to tie the knot!
From secluded bush retreats to elegant beachfront locales, these enchanting wedding venues on the Macleay Valley Coast are just perfect for springtime nuptials.
Opening image: Garden Bar & Kitchen.
Love at first sight
For wedding venues with on-site accommodation for your loved ones, we’ve got you covered.
Goolawah Bush and Beach Retreat is all about soaking up the magic of the outdoors: just 2.5km from Crescent Head, this gorgeous 28-acre property is a stone’s throw from pristine beaches and national parks. There are several ceremony sites to choose from with either leafy outlooks or ocean views. The rustic pavilion and courtyard can seat up to 90 guests or 120 standing, and offers a stunning space to take your first dance under glimmering fairy lights. There are five beautiful self-contained cottages on-site, each sleeping six people, and guests are also welcome to camp on the property’s rolling lawns.
For those seeking a venue as unique as they are, Surfaris Retreat is the place for you. Celebrating couples who march to the beat of their own drum, Surfaris creates non-traditional, timeless and tailored celebrations for your big day. With a lush bushland setting, Surfaris offers exclusive use of the entire wedding venue, including guest accommodation for 30 people, a whimsical ceremony area, covered reception and pool area draped in festoon lights and complete with white umbrellas. There is also the option of onsite catering made with fresh local produce, a full-service tiki bar, and cafe.
Why fly off to Greece or Italy when you can have a touch of Mediterranean flair on the Macleay Valley Coast? The Med is a chic motel-style venue providing a fun and stylish setting for weddings. Guests can take advantage of the 200 square-metre courtyard, alfresco area and 50-seat La Costa Cantina: a Mexican restaurant and bar serving delicious tacos and authentic cuisine. It’s also perfect for overnight guests with a selection of stunning suites, a three-bedroom penthouse, two-bedroom cottage or the quirky holiday containers.
Happily ever after
For those looking for beautiful venues without accommodation included, check out these top spots around the region.
The Garden Bar and Kitchen in Frederickton offers a picturesque riverside setting in the historic Old Cheese Factory. Accommodating up to 200 guests standing or 120 seated, you can exchange your vows in The Old Shed, followed by a waterfront reception in the restaurant. The Garden Bar chefs offer innovative and shareable menus bursting with locally sourced ingredients. From setup to cleanup, and everything in between, The Garden Bar team has an impeccable eye for detail, and will ensure your day goes off without a hitch!
Situated near Kempsey on 130 acres, The Sherwood Estate offers picturesque views, beautiful gardens and a unique reception area for an utterly unforgettable wedding. Surrounded by rolling fields, lovely lakes and even a kangaroo or two, the spacious grounds have plenty of opportunities for outdoor ceremonies and receptions – and the most gorgeous pagoda to say “I do.”
For a beachside celebration with local charm, you can’t beat the Kempsey Crescent Head Surf Club. Overlooking the pristine beaches of Crescent Head, this award-winning venue had a $2.5 million rebuild in 2015, with the elegant Pandanus Room offering extensive views up to Smoky Cape Lighthouse. Whether you’re interested in a casual beachfront affair or a more formal reception, the surf club’s laidback atmosphere and ocean vistas are the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Explore in your free time
Why not make a weekend of it? You and your guests will find plenty to explore during your free time on the Macleay Valley Coast.
Tee off for a round at Crescent Head Country Club’s mini golf course, great fun for little kids and big kids alike. The beautifully designed course promises plenty of dips and turns, with water features, bridges, rock gardens and lovely views over Killick Creek.
To hit the road and see some of the region’s stunning coastal scenery, take a scenic drive to Smoky Cape Lighthouse along Tourist Drive 12. This heritage lighthouse was built in 1891, and promises panoramic views of Hat Head National Park’s cliffs, beaches and hinterland.
Art lovers can discover local talent at Nulla Nulla Regional Gallery within the Slim Dusty Centre at Kempsey. With a range of exhibitions throughout the year, there is always something new to enjoy.
For a laidback lunch on the veranda, a wholesome pub dinner or just good vibes, unwind with live performances and refreshing drinks at Crescent Head Tavern. Located near one of Australia’s most iconic surf breaks, it’s the perfect place to sit back and soak up the joy of being surrounded by family and friends for your special day.
Enjoyed reading about wedding venues on the Macleay Valley Coast? For more to explore in the region, check out the best outdoor adventures and top spots to eat.
Travel to the Macleay Valley Coast
Rex flies to Port Macquarie, and from there it is an easy 40-minute drive to the Macleay Valley Coast. Book your tickets here and check out the route map below.
