The Macleay Valley Coast is a thriving regional destination known for its rugged, bush-covered coastline, natural wonders and fabulous dining options.
Whether you’re after relaxation or an outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. Check out the best places to eat, play and stay to help you plan your next holiday.
Eat
One of the fastest growing regions on the NSW coast, the Macleay Valley is bursting with country markets, cosy cafes and delicious produce. Step into any of its charming towns and you can sample a huge range of culinary creations lovingly created by locals.
Mimi’s Coffee in Frederickton is a new hole-in-the-wall cafe brewing delicious coffee paired with classic cakes and bites. Its coffee beans are sourced from Pablo & Rusty, and it’s conveniently located next to the Garden Bar and Kitchen – a premium restaurant and wedding venue known for its modern Australian menu. Whether you want a morning pick-me-up, a craft beer, or an evening cocktail, they have you covered.
If you’re in Crescent Head, make sure to check out Blackfish Coffee for your caffeine dose. Open seven days a week, indulge in mouthwateringly good burgers, homemade soups and awesome sangas. To top things off, it’s a short stroll from one of the best surf breaks in the region.
For those after a great dinner spot, Lloydies at Gladstone serves elevated brunch, lunch and dinner. Host to a packed calendar of events including wine tastings and long lunches, there’s always something to celebrate. Regularly changing specials showcase delicious local produce, with some of the favourites being a truffle gnocchi with parmesan foam, and a 12-hour braised bolognese rigatoni.
Play
On the Macleay Valley Coast, you’ll find a range of festivals and events that the whole family will enjoy. Head to the sparkling beaches of South West Rocks for a three-week sculpture festival from Monday 16 December 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025, beautifully integrated into the grounds of the heritage-listed Maritime Museum, Arts and Craft Cottage and Art Gallery.
Sculptures Rock was previously known as Sculptures in the Gaol, but it has undergone an exciting revamp and will now be held in the Marine Precinct. Spend the day wandering among the impressive sculpture displays for a taste of the wide-ranging talents of local artists.
Travelling with energetic kids? Take them to South Kempsey Pump Track for an afternoon spent racing bicycles, skateboards, scooters and roller skates around the impressive track. Known as a ‘rollercoaster’ path, the asphalt track has sweeping, banked turns designed for speed, and the whole circuit is intended to be completed without needing to pedal or push. Parents can sit back and relax on the viewing platform while your children enjoy hours of fun.
Those who love getting into the Christmas spirit should check out the Santa Surf at Crescent Head. Each year, hundreds of Santa Clauses gather at Killuke Creek for one last surf before the delivering of presents begins. Enjoy live music, games and more on the banks of the creek, while the Santas float past, spreading some holiday cheer.
Stay
Need to fit in more of everything the Macleay Valley Coast has to offer? Stay longer at one of the new hotels along the coastline.
Sea Sea Surf Club is a boutique hotel in Crescent Head, offering 25 rooms each with warm interiors that channel the calming vibe of 1970s Aussie surf culture. It’s decked out with artisan furniture, hand-woven tapestries and collaborative pieces from some of the region’s best artists. It’s home to a popular kitchen and bar, and an event theatre that hosts exhibitions, live performances and movie nights.
Salt at South West Rocks provides luxury riverfront villas with amazing views over the water. This elegant property has two heated mineral swimming pools, sunbeds, BBQ areas and outdoor lounges. It’s the perfect base from which you can explore more of town, the stunning beaches and headlands with amazing views.
For those after something more budget-friendly, check out Hat Head Holiday Park. Only 30 minutes from Kempsey, you can take your pick from cosy cabins, and powered or unpowered camping sites. Make use of the playground, BBQ area, and laundry and kiosk, and bring your furry friends along as the entire park is dog friendly. Each site is allowed one well behaved dog, as long as they remain leashed outside of your digs.
Located between Hat Head National Park and Korogoro Creek, there is plenty of exploring to be done in the surrounding area. One thing that everyone loves about this region is that a beach is never far away!
To read about the best wedding venues on the Macleay Valley Coast, click here.
