Crescent Head has achieved the esteemed status of a National Surfing Reserve, marking it as the fourth recognized site in Australia for its exceptional significance to the surfing community. Along this enchanting coastline, you’ll find four pristine right-hand point-breaks, perfectly suited for both Longboard riders, fun board riders, and beginners of all ages. Positioned approximately midway between Crescent Head and Point Plomer is Delicate Nobby, a wedge-shaped rock formation that emerges just off the shoreline, extending into the vast expanse of the Pacific. On either side of this geological marvel, there are fantastic beach breaks offering a diverse assortment of waves.

Here are some recommended places to explore in or close Crescent Head:

Feel free to reach out to us at guest service to coordinate your plans. We are eager to assist in crafting your itinerary.

Exploring the Natural Wonders

Crescent Head is surrounded by natural parks that beckon outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short drive from SEA SEA Hotel, Goolawah National Park offers activities like surfing, fishing, birdwatching, and whale watching. Maria National Park, a haven for bushwalking, cycling, and horse riding, showcases the region’s stunning flora and fauna. For a tranquil experience, the Big Hill Rain Forest trail leads through lush forests, offering glimpses of local wildlife, including eagles, dolphins, and whales.

Goolawah National Park

Distance: 6 minutes by car

Head to Goolawah National Park where you can go surfing, fishing, birdwatching and even whale watching from the headlands.

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Maria National Park

Distance : 14 Minutes by Car

Maria National Park offers unlimited opportunities for outdoor activities, and bird watchers can enjoy stunning views of avifauna in the Hastings-Macleay Important Bird Area. With its breath taking views of towering trees, freshwater streams, waterfalls, and wildflowers, Maria National Park is a haven for bushwalking, cycling, and horse riding.

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Big Hill Rain Forest

Distance: 12 minutes by car

This short loop walking trail winds around the top of the headland through lush littoral rainforest, pandanus palms and low heath vegetation. Take your time and spot eagles flying overhead, dolphins swimming in pods near the shore and, if you’re lucky, whales migrating during winter and spring.

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Crescent Head Country Club Activities

Enhance your stay with activities at the Crescent Head Country Club. Whether you’re teeing off on the picturesque golf course, playing tennis under the refreshing sea breeze, or enjoying a friendly game of bowls, there’s something for everyone. These activities are perfect for staying active and enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Golf
Tee off with the only accredited six-hole golf course in Australia, Open to the public all year, with panoramic views of the Pacific Coast as your backdrop. As the most picturesque golf course in Australia, it’s not unusual to spot dolphins and experience whale migration as you line up your shot. Kids are welcome as long as accompanied by parents/guardians. Alternatively, if you like a quicker game, the newly built mini golf course, featuring fun obstacles and even a giant wave to navigate, is great fun for kids and adults alike.

Tennis
A perfect place to play any time of year. Tennis on a summer evening with a refreshing sea breeze is the perfect way to unwind. Our mild coastal winters are ideal so you can stay fit and warm even after the sun goes down. Featuring two well-maintained synthetic courts with lights, bring friends and family to enjoy a night-time game or two.

Bowls
Enjoy quality time with loved ones on our eight all-weather carpeted rinks—perfect for friendly bowls competitions. Whether in the warmth of a summer day or under evening lights, the fun continues year-round.
Operating Hours: 10 am – 10 pm
Reservation is required on 02-6566-0268
Kids are welcome as long as accompanied by parents/guardians
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RENTALS

Surf and SUP Board Rental
Whether you’re into surfing on the beach or simply want to enjoy Killick Beach with a stand-up paddleboard without the hassle of bringing your own, we’ve got you covered! The Sea Sea Hotel team can make advance arrangements to reserve your preferred board type and size.
For reservation, please contact info@seaseahotel.com

Bicycle Rental
Bicycling is a healthy way to travel short distances or explore Crescent Head. At Sea Sea Hotel, we offer both bicycles and e-bikes for rent. To ensure availability, please reserve in advance.
For reservation, please contact info@seaseahotel.com

Here are some recommended places to explore around Crescent Head and the MacLeay Valley region.

Kalateenee Mountain Biking Trails
Distance: 23 minutes by car
Calling all adrenaline junkies! The Kalateenee Mountain Bike Trails, located just outside Kempsey (a short drive from Crescent Head), offer a thrilling experience for all skill levels. Explore a network of trails that wind through stunning bushland scenery, with options for both beginners and seasoned riders. Get your heart pumping and conquer new terrains at Kalateenee Flow Mountain Bike article on Kalateenee
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The Promised Lands, Bellingen
Distance: 1hr 34 minutes by car
Promised lands is a hidden gem found in the Never Never region within Belligen on the NSW North coast. This is a very short and easy walk but one that has much to offer. In summer, Promised Lands is a popular swimming spot that offers crystal clear waters for swimming. Rope swings are scattered throughout the trees for the thrill seekers wanting a rush of adrenaline. They can be found along the river in many of the swimming holes. In the winter months, this is a place of recreational white water rafting where tour groups and equipped adventurers take to the waters and travel along the Never Never river.
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Water Sports and Adventure
Dive into the world of water sports with surfing lessons from Crescent Head’s experienced coaches. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, the surfing school offers personalized instruction for all ages. For a different perspective, rent a surf or SUP board and explore the serene waters of Killick Beach. Adventure seekers can also venture to the South West Rock Diving Center to discover the underwater beauty of South West Rock.
Activity may be arranged from Sea Sea Hotel however activity proceeds based on the weather permission.

Stoney Park Aqua Park
Distance: 36 minutes by car
Stoney Aqua Park is located at Telegraph Point in New South Wales Australia – at 16 Hacks Ferry Road Telegraph Point. The park covers a huge area and boasts a wide array of inflatable fun items for everyone’s enjoyment, suitable for ages from 7 all the way up to the elderly.
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Fish Rock
Distance: 39 minutes by car
Fish Rock is world-renowned as one of the top five dive sites in Australian waters, offering an unparalleled experience for both new and experienced divers. Located two kilometres southeast of Smoky Cape at South West Rocks, Fish Rock Cave stands out as Australia’s only true ocean cave dive, stretching 125 metres through Fish Rock. This site is home to a unique ecosystem that fascinates divers from around the world. To dive here, you must have an Open Water Certification or higher, and staff will need to verify your certification before you dive.
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Local Farm Visits

Experience the rural charm of the Macleay Valley region with a visit to the Eungai Buffalo Farm. Learn about sustainable buffalo farming, sample delicious buffalo-based products, and enjoy a meal at the on-site café. Sea Sea Hotel also offers bicycle and e-bike rentals, inviting guests to explore Crescent Head at their own pace.

Eungai Buffalo Farm
Distance: 49 minutes by car
Ian and Kim Massingham’s (owner) journey into buffalo farming began with a single taste of fresh mozzarella in Italy, leading them to establish Eungai Creek Buffalo Farm in NSW. Faced with a scarcity of buffalo farms in the region, they purchased a pregnant buffalo and relocated their herd to a biodynamic farm in 2012. Over the years, the farm has expanded its offerings to include soft and mature cheeses, gelato, milk, yogurt, and meat, all produced sustainably. Committed to ethical treatment of their animals, the couple has cultivated a deep connection with their buffalo, emphasizing the unique personalities of each of the 100 animals. The farm’s popularity has grown, featuring a successful on-site café offering a variety of buffalo-based products, and their biodynamic approach has led to requests for workshops to share their knowledge. Reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Opening Hours:
Lunch Thursday – Sunday 10 am – 3 pm
Dinner Friday and Saturday 6 pm – 8:30 pm
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Here are some recommended places to eat to explore around Crescent Head and the MacLeay Valley region.

La Costa Cantina
A Mexican restaurant and bar located at The Med, inspired by the dramatic western sunsets of Cabo San Lucas La Costa Cantina.
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Barnesy’s Bistro and Bamboo Chinese Restaurant
Modern, Australian cuisine with your choice of ocean, estuary or golf course view and it is located within the Crescent Head Country Club.
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Cressense
Cressence, a fully licensed family bistro, offers great food, a variety of drinks including beers, ciders, rtd’s, a wine list paired to the menu, and indulgent cocktails.
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Cedar Bar and Kitchen – 8 Church Street, Bellingen
Distance: 1hr 19 minutes
Nestled in a heart of Bellingen in 114 year old church, The carefully restored building boasts original stained glass windows and 7-metre high ceilings. Drop in for a quick wine and a bowl of olives & polenta chips, or stay for the night and order several plates for a delicious grazing style dinner.
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Za’atar Bellingen – 66 Hyde St, Bellingen
Distance: 1hr 19 minutes
Middle Eastern Eatery for dine-in or take away. With the best authentic falafel and hummus going around!
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Osteria Fiume – 58-60 Hyde Street, Bellingen
Distance: 1hr 19 minutes
An Italian and wine bar known for its lunch and dinner offerings, including a special Aperitivo time.
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Gladstone Delight
Gladstone, nestled in the Macleay Valley, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Embark on heritage walks, visit art galleries, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of local markets. With unique dining options like Lloydies, this charming town offers a rich tapestry of experiences for all who visit.

Bellingen
Originally settled around the 1840s as a river port known as Boat Harbour, Bellingen is now best known for its welcoming village atmosphere, creative energy and relaxed and friendly lifestyle. Stroll through its well-preserved heritage streetscape, visit the town’s renowned café strip for the best coffee in the region, or wine and dine at one of the numerous quality restaurants and bistros. Ever since the 1970s Bellingen has been a haven for artists, artisans and those seeking an alternative lifestyle. As a result, a variety of innovative local arts and crafts is on offer at the town’s galleries and boutique outlets, while visitors flock to the monthly community markets and many arts and music festivals.

Steam and Cedar – 19 Kinchela St, Gladstone
Distance: 23 minutes
Hidden gem within The Gladstone Hub offering artisan coffee, fresh baked treats, and homemade ice creams, known for its innovative menu.
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The Old Bank – 20 Kinchela St, Gladstone
Distance: 23 minutes
Heritage-listed accommodation & restaurant in a beautifully restored 1910 building, offering boutique stays, high-tea, and vintage car hire in a picturesque setting.
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Heritage Hotel – 21 Kinchela St, Gladstone
Distance: 23 minutes
A historic pub with a modern interior and dog-friendly beer garden, serving cold beers and live music by the Macleay River.
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Here are more details on the spots to visit in the area:

Self-Guided Heritage Walk – Kinchela St, Gladstone
Explore Gladstone’s rich history through a 19-stop heritage walk starting at Kinchela Street, featuring detailed histories of local buildings and the town’s origins as ‘Blackwater’.

Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery (MVCAG) – 5 Kinchela St, Gladstone
A volunteer-run gallery showcasing diverse exhibitions by local artists, fostering the visual arts community in the Macleay Valley.

Gladstone Quality Markets – Kinchela St, Gladstone
Monthly markets along the Macleay River offering quality local produce, artisan goods, and works by regional artists, from gourmet food to handmade soaps and artwork.

The Gladstone Hub – 19 Kinchela St, Gladstone
A bustling network of creative businesses providing a market atmosphere with handcrafted goods, health foods, holistic services, and fair-trade products.

The Studio Gladstone – 23 Kinchela St, Gladstone
Boutique shop featuring the local Mokea clothing brand and a selection of accessories, art, and homewares inspired by coastal life.

Lloydies – Kinchela St, Gladstone
A vibrant eatery known for its flavorful, Caribbean-inspired dishes, Lloydies brings a taste of the tropics to Gladstone. With a menu that balances traditional recipes and modern twists, this spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy a laid-back dining experience with a side of island flair.