tours south west rocks

20 Things To Do In South West Rocks NSW 2024 Guide

Discover one of the best hidden gems on the East Coast and explore the best things to do in South West Rocks in the Mid-North Coast NSW. We’ve been coming here for years because it’s home to some of the best hikes, beaches and campgrounds in Australia!

If you’re looking for your next getaway, put South West Rocks on your list to visit.

Table of Contents

Where is South West Rocks?

Never heard of South West Rocks? It’s located just over an hour’s drive South of Coffs Harbour, and the same distance North of Port Macquarie. Between these two regions, there is a lot to see and do, especially the beautifully stunning and deserted beaches. The mid-north coast is a hugely underrated area, and South West Rocks is a reason for this. It is beautiful here, and definitely worth a visit on your East Coast road trip!

20 things to do in South West Rocks

1. trial bay gaol.

The historic Trial Bay Gaol is one of the top attractions in South West Rocks which brings in visitors from all over Australia. Built in 1886, the heritage listed building housed prisoners who were brought to the area to build the breakwater to make a safe harbour between Brisbane and Sydney.

The jail then became a World War 1 prison for people of German descent. You can jump on a guided tour to learn all about the jail in Arakoon National Park.

2. Smoky Cape Lighthouse 

Smoky Cape Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Australia and is definitely one of the best things to do in South West Rocks!

The 10 minute drive up to Smoky Cape Lighthouse is gorgeous and when you get there, you’ll have a steep hill to climb. Don’t worry it’s not too far and will take about five minutes, with a few stops to catch your breath.

We saw people of all ages climbing up it. When you get to the top, you’ll get incredible views looking out to Hat Head National Park! We also really wanted to check out two awesome beaches on the other side of the lookout but we ran out of time.

South West Rocks beaches

South West Rocks is home to some beautiful beaches which you need to check out. Here’s our favourites!

3. Trial Bay Gaol Beach

Trial Bay Gaol Beach is absolutely gorgeous and is one of the best beaches for kids as it’s got shallow water and is really flat, and a perfect place to bring your SUP and go paddle boarding.

AND you can actually watch the sunset over the ocean from Trial Gaol Beach. That’s always one thing I miss living on the East Coast of Australia, it’s so rare to be able to watch the sunset over the water. But you can at Trial Gaol Beach purely because of the angle of the beach.

4. Horseshoe Bay

There’s three beaches to choose from right in the middle of South West Rocks. If you’re staying at Horseshoe Bay Holiday Park, you’ll get to the pick of the bunch. Horseshoe Bay is a lovely little beach, while to the right you have a long stretch of Trial Bay Beach and Back Beach to the left.

5. Little Bay Beach

Just outside of town lies Little Bay, a gorgeous little beach which is home to loads of kangaroos, picnic benches and rock pools. Make sure you make the effort to check out this beach as it’s beautiful!

6. Gap beach

You can only access Gap beach via a walking track but we love secluded beaches so make sure you go check it out!

8. North Smokey Beach

There’s also two secluded beaches just below the Smoky Cape Lighthouse which look incredible. You’ll need to access them via the John Perkins track but for us, these are there beaches we’d be making a beeline for on our next trip to South West Rocks.

8. South Smoky Beach

You can see South Smoky Beach from the lighthouse and from what we saw, you can drive your 4×4 on it too!

South West Rocks Hikes

One of the best things about South West Rocks is the amount of hiking on offer. To me, this is the biggest draw card to staying here at this slice of paradise.

If you’re wondering what the hiking looks like, here are some of the most popular:

9. Rainforest Walking Tack

The rainforest walking track in Hat Head is a short walk from one end of the Gap Beach to the other. It’s easy to find and suitable for all ages and takes around 30 minutes to complete.

10. Jack Perkins Walking Track

The Jack Perkins walking track starts at Smoky Cape Lighthouse and takes you to the stunning North Smoky Beach. It’s just a 2km walk and takes around 30 minutes return. Just be prepared to walk back up the hill on the way back to the car.

11. Bridle Trail

Bridle Trail is a lovely 15 minute walk which leads to Little Bay. Here you can catch a glimpse of the heritage of the Trail Bay Gaol. You’ll walk through the beautiful rainforest and on your way you should look out for the remains of the old iron pipe which used to supply water to the gaol.

12. Little Bay to Smoky Cape Lighthouse

Looking for a longer South West Rocks walk? Make sure you check out Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk.

The 10KM (one way) coastal track takes you from Little Bay to Smoky Cape Lighthouse, with a detour to The Gap Beach. As it passes along the cliffs, you might be able to spot some whales if you visit during the migration season from June – November. Be aware there’s no public transport to pick you up at the end, so you’ll need to walk the 10KM back!

13. Gap Beach walking Track

If you’re looking to do a shorter walk, then you can do the 6KM (2-3 hours return) Gap Beach walking track which takes you from Little Bay and finishes at Gap Beach, rather than Smoky Cape Lighthouse.

14. Dive at the incredible Fish Rock Cave

Fish Rock Cave is an awesome scuba diving cave where grey nurse sharks can be found year round.

But it’s no surprise Fish Rock Cave is not only one of the best dive sites in Australia with South West Rocks Dive , it’s home to the largest ocean cavern in the southern hemisphere. At 120m long, Fish Cave Rock brings in divers from around the world.

Nothing will actually prepare you for the sight where you’ll see thousands of wobbegong sharks and a large bull ray just resting on the bottom, it’s something you need to see in person.

15. Snorkel at Back Creek

If you’re new to snorkelling then you should snorkel along Back Creek on the incoming tide to view all of the fish around. It’s really shallow so it’s a perfect activity for families.

15. Play golf or tennis at the South West Rocks Country Club

If you’re looking for things to do in South West Rocks, check out the South West Rocks Country Club. It’s home to a beautiful 18 hole golf course and tennis club complete with a restaurant as well. If you’re bored of the beach, this is a fun activity which is located on the edge of town.

17. Learn to surf with a pro

If you’re wanting to learn to surf then there’s no better place to do it than in South West Rocks. Former pro surfer, Trent Munro has his own Surf Academy and runs lessons for all levels and ages.

18. Go shopping in South West Rocks

There’s some fantastic shops in South West Rocks. You could easily buy a new wardrobe at Raw Spice Boutique, buy homewares at Good Vibes.

19. Where to eat in South West Rocks

While it’s obvious that South West Rocks isn’t as modern as other beach towns in New South Wales, there are a couple of decent places to eat here. Don’t expect posh restaurants yet, although I’m sure in time, they will start popping up.

Seabreeze Beach Hotel is the main pub in town, serving up Aussie pub classics. Trial Bay Kiosk is home to the best views, and the only place which is a hop skip and a jump from the Trial Bay Gaol campsite.

Sixty Degrees as well as Malt & Honey serve up healthy, hipster food such as acai bowls and avo on toast. If you’re visiting Malt & Honey, order the famous mushrooms dish. They had sold out of it when we visited.

20. South West Rocks Accommodation

• Luxury – Salt : Located opposite the Macleay River, Salt features villas for that home from home feeling, complete with free bike hire, an outdoor swimming pool and garden.
• Luxury pet friendly – Spoondrift : 5 minutes walk to the beach, this 4 bedroom house is perfect for those who want to bring their fur babies along for a getaway.
• Mid range – Smoky Cape Retreat : Perfect couples getaway complete with a tennis court, swimming pool in stunning tropical surroundings.
• Budget – Rockpool Motor Inn : Resort style accommodation with a swimming pool at budget friendly prices.
• Budget – Horseshoe Bay Holiday Park : Book a cabin 500 metres from the beach at this popular holiday park
• Camping – Trial Bay Campground : As one of THE best campsites in Australia, you’ll be able to roll out of bed and into some pristine flat water perfect for SUP and relaxing in.

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Best things to do in South West Rocks

Love the blurb on South West Rocks but please note that Smoky as in Smoky Cape does not have an “e”.

Unless you are from North America, Goal it is. 🙂

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10 incredible things to do in South West Rocks

Taylah Darnell

Editorial Assistant

03 February 2023

Here are 10   of the best things to do in South West Rocks that you ‘ve probably never heard of but definitely should know about.

Hidden away smack bang between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour on Australia’s Mid-North Coast is the sleepy town of South West Rocks. It may not seem like it on the drive in to town,  with its quiet streets and quaint shops , but this coastal locality is bursting with things to do.

1. Backflip off Back Creek Bridge

Back Creek is known among locals for its crystal-clear water, boisterous high-tide flow and of course, its unique bridge that is part boardwalk part plunge platform. Pick a spot on the grass, whether it be by a barbecue or near the water’s edge, to enjoy a day at one of the best swimming spots in South West Rocks.    

Back Creek Bridge has recently been refurbished. (Image: Destination NSW)

If you dare, climb the bridge to its highest point and bomb into the blue waters below. Put your brave face on, as local kids are known to hover about and watch, waiting eagerly for their turn. For those who’d rather a slower entrance, opt for the boardwalk, which has a spot with steps.   

If you head down at high tide, bring an inflatable. It’s a rite of passage to jump in at the mouth of the creek and let the strong current pull you back towards the bridge.   There’s also plenty of space to swim along the shore, plus areas to deploy kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. All that swimming got you hungry? Head across the road to Back Creek Cafe, one of the best cafes in town .   

The gentle waters make it perfect for stand-up paddleboarding. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Grab grub at The Kiosk in Horseshoe Bay

The best place in town for fish and chips might just be the most unlikely. Perched on the top of the hill between Horseshoe Bay and Main Beach is The Kiosk at Horseshoe Bay , renowned for serving up all the best post-swim snacks.  

From delicious burgers, freshly cooked hot chips and seafood galore to creamy milkshakes, ice creams and lollies to go, you’ll be spoilt for choice.   We recommend grabbing take-away and sitting under the Norfolk pines overlooking Horseshoe Bay; it’s a classic holiday experience sprinkled with some South West Rocks magic.  

Nestle under the Norfolks to chow down on lunch. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Picnic at Monument Point

Just behind The Kiosk at Horseshoe Bay, you’ll find a view that rivals most, so pack yourself a picnic and head to Monument Point for sprawling ocean views. It’s also a great spot to watch whales head to their summer feeding grounds in the Antarctic after breeding in the north if you’re visiting between September and October.

Monument Point looks out over Horseshoe Bay. (Image: Destination NSW)

Set up on the grass either in the sun or under the shade of a Norfolk to watch the waves crash on the jagged rocks below, which at low tide form beautiful, small rock pools that you can swim in.  

This is also a great snorkelling spot at low tide. Make your way down to the rocks to witness the marine life up close; locals have even spotted dolphins frolicking in the waves here. If you’re keen to snorkel but don’t have much experience, head around the corner to Trial Bay Beach to snorkel in the shallows near the Surf Club for a calmer introduction. 

Gather your nibblies for a picnic with a view.

4. Pick up souvenirs at The Shell Shop

The Shell Shop on Gregory Street is a perfect example of what makes South West Rocks so special. Showcasing a mind-boggling range of shells displayed inside glass cabinets, The Shell Shop sells the perfect souvenir; something truly local and rare to find elsewhere. Think conch shells of every size and colour, spiral shells, pearly scallop shells and even coral and crystals. The owner uses these finds to create homemade gifts, such as jewellery boxes, necklaces and outdoor hanging decorations.  

The Shell Shop is located on Gregory Street in South West Rocks. (Image: Chloe Braushi)

Next door yet still connected to The Shell Shop, you’ll find a small but well-stocked nursery that you can buy from as well. You’ll be surprised at the low-cost total of your purchases.  

Choose a unique shell to take home with you. (Image: Chloe Braushi)

5. Play golf alongside wild kangaroos

The town is nestled between two national parks and surrounded by lush bushland, so it’s no surprise that the kangaroo population in South West Rocks is numerous. In fact, they can be seen bounding across residential streets and grazing near beaches.  

The 18-hole course is just a short walk from the beach.

The South West Rocks Country Club is no exception, expect to spot kangaroos munching away on the well-trimmed grass. Thankfully they’re skilled at staying out of the way when it comes time to tee off. The Country Club allows non-members to play the 18-hole course for a $30 social green fee ($25 for nine holes). Barefoot bowls and tennis courts are also available to book (kangaroo sightings are thrown in for free). 

The Kangaroo population rivals that of the townsfolk. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Explore the old Trial Bay Gaol

Step back in time as you enter the ancient ruins of Trial Bay Gaol , which opened in 1886 after its construction 13 years earlier. A unique example of a public works prison, it was also used as an internment camp in World War I.  

The historic Trial Bay Gaol opened in 1886. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are plenty of tours available, from twilight and sunset tours to a life behind bars kids tour. A museum and memorial nearby also offer visitors deeper insight into how life was for prisoners when the gaol was still operational.  

Trial Bay Gaol is located within the Arakoon National Park, so there’s plenty to explore once you finish your tour. Hike the Powder Magazine walking track or spend the night and pitch a tent at the nearby Trial Bay Gaol campground.

Visitors can pick from a variety of tours. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. 4WD along South Smoky Beach

Navigate your way down the dirt roads through Arakoon National Park to South Smoky Beach, where the flat, hard sand makes the perfect place to 4WD safely. You’ll need to pre-book a beach driving permit online or in person with Kempsey Council and be aware that the last 500 metres of the north end of the beach is closed to all vehicles.

Spot Smoky Cape Lighthouse from below. (Image: Chloe Braushi)

The 15-kilometre stretch of beach boasts some of the most stunning scenery along the coast. There’s dense bushland behind you, a tumbling ocean in front and two cliff faces on either side, one adorned with the historic Smoky Cape Lighthouse.   

Renowned among locals as a surfing hotspot, this stretch of beach offers some of the best breaks in town. For those looking to swim, be aware that South Smoky Beach is not patrolled. If you’ve got little ones, don’t fret; there are plenty of other gorgeous beaches to choose from .

The hard sand makes it easy to cruise along in a 4WD.

8. Discover treasures at Opals Gems & Things

Enter a world of all things shimmery and shiny at Opals Gems & Things in the main drag of South West Rocks.  It’s a great place to pick up a gift for yourself or someone special, with everything from raw crystals and shaped gems to handmade jewellery and decorative pieces. Every shelf is neatly organised by the type of crystal or gem, with small notes that detail the meaning behind each.

Pick a crystal that speaks to you from the colourful range.

9. Experience a slice of history at Smoky Cape Lighthouse

The stunning yet historic Smoky Cape Lighthouse sits atop a narrow headline between North Smoky and South Smoky beaches. Built in 1891, the lighthouse was designed by architect James Barnet. It was named after the headland, which Captain Cook dubbed Smoky Cape after he saw fires burning there in 1770. The walk from the car park is steep but you’ll be rewarded with grand coastal views and plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities along the way.

The lighthouse is the ideal spot for stunning coastal views. (Image: Destination NSW)

10. Wander the Beachside Markets

On the second Saturday of every month, South West Rocks transforms into a hub for local produce, custom crafts and decor, live music, clothes, food trucks and plants. Held at the picturesque Horseshoe Bay, visitors can wander through the stalls of the Beachside Markets , then sit in the shade of the Norfolks for lunch or jump into the sea for a dip.

The markets start bright and early at 8am and wrap up around 1pm. Additional markets are held each Saturday during the school holidays, making it the perfect family-friendly activity to add to your itinerary.

Pick up a new plant to take home with you.

Taylah has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of a book or attempting to write her own. When she's not immersed in the world of words, she enjoys spending time amongst nature, hunting for second-hand treasures and watching/playing a good game of soccer.

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WHAT WE OFFER

If your vacation feels incomplete without a guided tour, we have several options for you to choose from at South West Rocks Estuary Charters. We have guided tour packages to suit any budget or special request. All tours come fresh water, softdrinks, and cordial.  You can also BYO. All bait and tackle is supplied  fishing licenses are also included.We also have unlicensed Hire Boats available.

ALL OUR BOAT TOURS ARE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

GUIDED FISHING TOURS

If you love fishing, but like a lot of people get sea sick, come fish the Macleay River. Its flat and calm conditions are family friendly and there are plenty of fish on offer including that prized Flathead and monster Mulloway.  We offer all types of fishing including night fishing, just to give you the very best chance to take home a great catch.

ECO AND SUNSET TOURS

If fishing isn't your thing, but you just want a leisurely cruise on the river, let us take you to some of the best locations where you will see the wildlife in their natural habitat, also the scenery along the way will certainly not disappoint.

BEACH FISHING TOURS

Our beach fishing tours give you access to some of our most secluded beaches that are only accessible by 4WD. We will be able to teach you how beach fish, gather bait, what to look for and learn what rigs to use. Or if you are looking to just take the family for a fun day out on the beach we will be able to show you some of South West Rocks Amazing Land Marks

• Places To Go
• Willi Willi
• Stuarts Point
• Frederickton
• Yarrahapinni
• Grassy Head
• Macleay Valley Hinterland
• Crescent Head
• South West Rocks
• Top 10 Macleay Valley Coast Beaches
• Things To Do
• Macleay Valley Coast Art Trail
• Nature Trails of the Macleay
• 4WD & Off-Road Driving
• Itineraries
• National Parks & Reserves
• Bird Watching
• Walking & Hiking
• Activities & Adventure
• Festivals & Events
• Aboriginal Tourism
• Arts & Culture
• Beaches & Surfing
• Food & Drink
• Walking The Macleay
• Places to Stay
• Plan Your Trip
• Places to stay
• Getting to the Macleay Valley Coast
• Getting around the Macleay Valley Coast
• Information Centres
• Maps & Brochures
• Permits & safety information

12 ways to experience the magic of tourist drive 12

• Travel Inspiration
• 12 Ways to experience the magic of Tourist Drive 12
• Out on the water in the Macleay Valley Coast
• Top 10 Adventure Activities on the Macleay Valley Coast

Top surf spots on the Macleay Valley Coast

• Bag a Bargain at Macleay Valley Coast Op Shops
• Best Kept Food & Drink Secrets for the Macleay Valley Coast
• Explore the Macleay Valley Coast with your Pup!
• Hiking Gems on the Macleay Valley Coast
• Getting Reel on the Macleay Valley Coast

Relax & Get your Glow on

South west rocks estuary charters.

With his many years of experience, Matt shares his passion for fishing, conservation and knowledge of what South West Rocks has to offer to you from guided fishing tours, eco tours and sunset cruises.

South West Rocks is truly a stunning place of its amazing beaches, beautiful scenery, history, nature and what it’s best known for its fishing.

Top Things to Do in South West Rocks, Australia

Things to do in south west rocks.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Trial Bay Gaol

2. Smoky Cape Lighthouse

3. Arakoon National Park

4. Horseshoe Bay Beach

5. Back Beach

6. Maritime Museum South West Rocks

7. German Monument

8. head of bight visitor centre.

9. Barakee National Park

10. South West Rocks Maritime Museum

11. South West Roxy Cinema

12. South West Rocks Dive Centre

13. Fidgets

14. Fish Rock Dive Centre

15. SWR Sup

16. Wildside Sportfishing

17. Trent Munro Surf Academy

18. South West Rocks Estuary Charters

What travellers are saying.

• Trial Bay Gaol
• Smoky Cape Lighthouse
• Horseshoe Bay Beach
• Arakoon National Park
• Maritime Museum South West Rocks

• Accommodation
• Travel Inspiration

• things to do
• coffs harbour trike tours

South West Rocks Tour

Sightseeing Tour to South West Rocks.

Tour to Trial Bay Goal which is a heritage-listed former public works prison which is perched on the cliffs within the Arakoon National Park. Rich in Australian history and with what is left of the jail it is very impressive and the view are stunning. Take your time on a self-guided tour around jail with entry is included.

Tour to South West Rocks to the Seabreeze Beach Hotel for lunch and a drink at your own expense. Overlooking Horseshoe Bay, you will love the relaxed seaside atmosphere of this community pub.

Tour to Smokey Cape Lighthouse which is a heritage-listed active lighthouse located on Smokey Cape, a headland in Arakoon just east of South West Rocks. The lighthouse directs boats towards the entrance of the Macleay River. The lighthouse stands on a granite headland 111 meters above sea level and its light is the highest in New South Wales.

Relax and enjoy your Tour back home.

Accessibility

Disabled access available, contact operator for details.

Valley to the River Mouth Tour

Lookout to Headland Tour

River Run Tour

Rainforest and Waterfall Tour

Our Town Tour

Local Winery Tour

Local Brewery Tour

Pub with No Beer Tour

Half Hour Teaser

Heading North Tour

Heading South Tour

Orara Valley Tour

Sunrise or Sunset Tour

It's time to feel new.

Pure joy as you wake to the sunrise. Awe as you make it to the snowy peak. A sense of adventure as you motor across red plains. The relief of rejuvenation as you wade into an alpine stream. Connection as you taste native, fragrant leaves. A sense of belonging as you return to your favourite holiday house. Freedom as you dash into the waves. Discover the endless feelings a visit to NSW can inspire.

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4WD fishing adventures on the NSW Mid North Coast, where fish filled waters meet pristine beaches.

Unique 4WD fishing tours Friendly and experienced guides Sustainable practices Options to suit most ages and abilities Catering  for small groups Affordable rates No sea sickness! Go On An Adventure With Mid North Coastal Fishing Tours !

4wd drone beach fishing tour (mar-nov).

From $225pp Duration: 7 Hours Minimum 1, Maximum 4 Persons

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From $200pp Duration: 7 Hours Minimum 1, Maximum 4 Persons

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Dive Tours are run daily to Fish Rock. Although there are other great dive sites in the area, Fish Rock generally has the best conditions and the biggest variety of marine life so that is our planned dive location. There are a number of great dive sites around the Island and the best sites are chosen on the day depending on conditions.

All of our tours are guided double dives unless otherwise specified. Our guides are experts in the area most of which have been diving the site for over 10 years, some more than 30 years.

The first dive site is normally ‘The Shark Gutters’, ‘Fish & Chips’ or ‘The Aquarium’ depending on conditions. Most days we can see 20 – 30 Grey Nurse Sharks and a myriad of other marine species.

Our usual second dive site is ‘Fish Rock Cave’. We have a few options when diving the cave. Divers are assessed on the first dive and depending on each divers confidence and ability groups may enter through the deep side and exit the shallow side of the cave or enter the shallow side of the cave and go in as far as comfortable then turn around and exit the same way. If the conditions aren’t suitable or divers choose not to dive the cave we have the option to do the second dive outside the cave.

When divers are doing multiple days we try to vary the sites and if the conditions are suitable dive the sites on the Northern side of Fish Rock including ‘The Pinnacle’ and ‘Land of the Giants’.

Divers meet at the dive shop to setup dive equipment at 7.45 am (Meeting time may vary depending on weather conditions, please confirm this  with us two days prior to arrival ) . Once gear is set up we meet again at the Macleay River wharf to board the boat. The double dive tour takes approximately 5.5 hours. After the tour equipment is returned to the shop where there is washing and drying facilities. You are welcome to use the showers and fill out your dive log.

Requirements

• An Open Water Certification or higher is required to do the dives. A copy of certification must be sighted by staff prior to diving.
• Participants need to be confident,   capable divers and able   to dive as part of a group.  If you are unsure about   your level of   experience or require a private guide please contact the Dive Shop to discuss.
• Divers under 18 years old must have parental / guardian consent and signature on liability waiver.
• Divers must use a dive computer, which can be hired from us if required (included with Regulator hire).

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• Half Hour Teaser Tour
• Our Town Tour
• Sunrise or Sunset Tour
• Valley to the River-Mouth Tour
• Lookout to Headland Tour
• River Run Tour
• Rainforest and Waterfall Tour
• Orara Valley Tour
• Local Winery Tour
• Local Brewery Tour
• Pub with No Beer Tour
• South West Rocks Tour
• Heading North Tour
• Heading South Tour

South West Rocks Tour Itinerary

Self-guided tour around Trial Bay Goal

Pick up from your location in Coffs Harbour at 10am and then onto a Sightseeing Tour to South West Rocks including visiting Trial Bay Goal within the Arakoon National Park, lunch at Horseshoe Bay and Smokey Cape Lighthouse.

• Pick up from your location in Coffs Harbour at 10am (Please advise if from another location)
• Sightseeing Tour to South West Rocks
• Tour to Trial Bay Goal which is a heritage-listed former public works prison which is perched on the cliffs within the Arakoon National Park
• Rich in Australian history and with what is left of the jail it is very impressive and the view are stunning
• Take your time on a self-guided tour around jail with entry on us
• Tour to South West Rocks to the Seabreeze Beach Hotel where lunch and drinks are available.
• Overlooking Horseshoe Bay, you will love the relaxed seaside atmosphere of this community pub.
• Tour to Smokey Cape Lighthouse which is a heritage-listed active lighthouse located on Smokey Cape, a headland in Arakoon just east of South West Rocks.
• The lighthouse directs boats towards the entrance of the Macleay River.
• The lighthouse stands on a granite headland 111 meters above sea level and its light is the highest in New South Wales.
• Relax and enjoy your Tour back home.

South West Rocks Stand up Paddle – SWR SUP

Welcome to South West Rocks Stand up Paddle, (SWRSUP). Stand up paddle board hire and tours.

We offer Day Tours, Sunrise and Sunset tours: min 4 people – max 8, starting from $70 p/person. One on one comprehensive instruction: $80 p/hour – Hires $35 p/Hour please enquire about hire availability.

You’ll find us on the beautiful waters of Back Creek, South West Rocks, right next to the town centre from horse shoe bay. We feel it’s our mission to enhance your South West Rocks experience. With the opportunity to enjoy Stand up Paddle boarding in a beautifully calm and pristine environment.

Our experience, matched with our highly stable boards. Will help to make standing up and paddling around, an achievable reality. Even if you’ve never ridden a SUP before, don’t sweat it, we’re here to help. From novice to expert, everyone can enjoy the Stand up Paddle boarding experience with SWR SUP. Feel free to get in contact with us, and we’ll get you paddling around in no time at all.

Where to find us

How to find us, plus info about the joyous environment we operate in.

Who we are, our collective experience, what we do, plus why we do it.

About our SUPs

A little bit about our really stable boards & stand up paddle boarding.

GET IN TOUCH

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NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

Smoky Cape Lighthouse

Hat Head National Park

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Hat Head National Park on the mid-north coast of NSW near South West Rocks is a natural paradise. Explore the lighthouse, camp by the beach and go fishing and swimming.

It’s a short but steep climb to the lighthouse – be sure to wear sturdy shoes.

Standing high on a narrow headland, Smoky Cape Lighthouse is surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery of Hat Head National Park. The lighthouse itself is as beautiful as the views – check out its winding staircase and octagonal tower.

Built in 1891, this heritage lighthouse is one of the last designed by the Colonial Architect, James Barnet. Smoky Cape headland was so named by Captain Cook after he saw Aboriginal fires burning there in 1770.

Smoky Cape is a fantastic spot for whale watching, birdwatching and picnicking, and you can stay overnight at the lighthouse keepers’ cottage. Don’t miss the views at nearby Smoky Cape picnic area .

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Tours and events at this location

Smoky Cape Lighthouse tour

Walk alongside an NPWS ranger on an intimate tour of Smoky Cape lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in NSW. Take in the stunning coastal scenery, in your own small group.

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Subscribe to our Naturescapes e-newsletter which is packed with the latest information, experiences and events in NSW national parks. Your next park adventure starts here.

General enquiries

• National Parks Contact Centre
• 7am to 7pm daily
• 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles
• [email protected]

Operated by

• Trial Bay Gaol Visitor Centre
• 9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
• 02 6566 6168
• [email protected]
• 73 Trial Bay Gaol Road, Arakoon NSW 2431
• in Hat Head National Park in the North Coast region

Hat Head National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Park entry fees:

$8 per vehicle per day.

What's nearby:

Things to do (22).

• Birdwatching and wildlife encounters (7)
• Cafes and kiosks (1)
• Canoeing/paddling (2)
• Cultural heritage (2)
• Fishing (3)
• Historic heritage (10)
• Photography (1)
• Picnics and barbecues (6)
• Road trips and car/bus tours (1)
• Sightseeing (10)
• Snorkelling and scuba (1)
• Surfing (1)
• Swimming (4)
• Walking (8)

Camping and accommodation (4)

• Accommodation (2)
• Campgrounds (2)

Volunteering (2)

School excursions (2), provide feedback.

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Smoky Cape Lighthouse

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Smoky Cape Lighthouse - All You MUST Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (1.92 km) Smoky Cape Retreat
• (4.25 km) Rockpool Motor Inn
• (3.45 km) NRMA South West Rocks Holiday Resort
• (4.97 km) Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks
• (1.86 km) Smoky Cape Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast & Cottages
• (4.95 km) Malt & Honey
• (4.81 km) Trial Bay Kiosk
• (4.88 km) Thai On The Rocks
• (4.79 km) Chillati Gelato & Sorbet
• (4.85 km) Sixty Degrees South West Rocks

• FIND REALTORS ®
• NEWS & INSIGHTS

28 Swift Place, South West Rocks, NSW 2431

Stunning, Quality Four-bedroom Home

Property details, floorplans and tours.

Contact Agent

Email enquiry to Harcourts - The Rocks

Property ID : 144271832

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