Tweed Heads, quietly making a comeback on the NSW North Coast, now boasts a collection of must-visit attractions, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination.
Nestled amidst natural splendour that stretches from the coast to the hinterland, there’s an abundance of things to do in Tweed Heads and surrounds. The Tweed beckons with its world-class luxury accommodation, renowned restaurants, and fun-filled adventures. You’ll wonder why you haven’t uncovered this paradise sooner. The best bit? It’s easily accessible from Gold Coast or Ballina airports, or just a short drive from Brisbane. Here’s our pick of the best things to do in Tweed Heads and beyond.
1. Tour, learn and taste local gin and rum at Husk Distillers
Distance from Tweed Heads: 20-minute drive
An absolute must-visit for an authentic Tweed experience, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled upon Neverland at Husk Distillers . On Sundays the scene is alive with happy patrons sipping cocktails under the sun, while families and couples lounge on the games lawn, relishing gourmet picnics and grazing platters – a testament to the locals’ pursuit of the good life.
Delve into the captivating tale of Australia’s pioneering paddock-to-bottle Agricole rum distillery by reserving a tour, complete with an Ink Gin and tonic upon arrival, and a Husk rum tasting flight at the Barrell House. Open seven days a week with plenty of experiences on offer.
Address: Husk Distillers, 1152 Dulguigan Road, North Tumbulgum
2. Immerse in the arts at M-Arts Precinct
Distance from Tweed Heads: 30-minute drive
On the banks of the Tweed River, Murwillumbah stands as the creative and cultural epicentre of the Tweed, offering a multitude of engaging things to do. Experience the ingenious transformation of an industrial warehouse into M-Arts , a place where artists and art lovers come together amid a backdrop of creativity over delectable food and drinks.
Watch emerging artists, jewellers, and local makers in action at art studio pop-ups within shipping containers, or pop upstairs to Gallery DownTown – an extension of the Tweed Regional Gallery that aspires to make art more accessible to the community. Pick up a brochure at M-Arts and take a self-guided wander through town admiring charming Art Deco shopfronts and the historic buildings of Murwillumbah.
Address: M-Arts Precinct, Corner of Proudfoots Lane and Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah
3. Explore the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre
Distance from Tweed Heads: 30-minute drive
Perched with panoramic views of Tweed Valley and Wollumbin/Mount Warning, Tweed Regional Gallery features seven exhibition spaces, housing a rotating roster of shows, touring exhibitions, and the impressive permanent Margaret Olley Art Centre.
Explore the artist’s life and work, including a faithful recreation of her home studio, a captivating trove of paintings and household relics.
Address: Tweed Regional Art Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre, 2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah
4. Indulge in simple living at Farm & Co Kingscliff
Distance from Tweed Heads: 15-minute drive
At Farm & Co Kingscliff , a charming family farm, organic produce finds its way from the fields to the store and cafe.
Citysiders will especially love wandering through the farm, embracing the country air, feeding the resident pigs and chickens, and stepping into the simple life amongst the sunflowers.
Address: Farm & Co, 529 Cudgen Road, Cudgen
5. Take in Mount Warning majesty at Mavis’s Kitchen
Distance from Tweed Heads: 45-minute drive
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Wollumbin/Mt Warning, Mavis’s Kitchen is an easy-going, country-style restaurant, housed in a stately old Queenslander on a 25-acre former dairy farm. The organic kitchen garden provides a substantial portion of the menu’s produce, and the culinary offerings are simple and delectable.
After your meal you can take a leisurely walk through the lush gardens, orchard, or lakeside, and revel in the serene ambience of this picturesque countryside haven. Ideal for a family catch-up or lovers’ lunch.
Address: Mavis’s Kitchen, 64 Mt Warning Road, Uki
6. Vintage forage at Heath’s Old Wares
Distance from Tweed Heads: 35-minute drive
Take the scenic drive to Burringbar and embark on a treasure hunt for vintage gems at Heath’s Old Wares . Known far and wide as a haven for antique enthusiasts, Heath’s showcases a rich array of vintage treasures, thoughtfully organised by category. For antiquing aficionados, follow ‘The Local Trail’, an expertly curated list of kindred stores assembled by Eva and Ross Heath, spanning from Chinderah Bay Antiques in the north to Ludo’s Old Wares in the south.
Address: Heath’s Old Wares, 19–21 Broadway, Burringbar
7. Soak up mother nature at Ecoasis in Uki
Distance from Tweed Heads: 45-minute drive
Venture into the verdant hinterland to reconnect with nature at the sweet and serene Ecoasis , a short drive from the cute and quirky town of Uki.
The self-contained treehouses are enveloped by the rainforest and feature private balconies for unwinding and savouring the breathtaking vistas of Mt Warning. Perfect for a relaxed, romantic stay.
Address: Ecoasis Resort, 55 Tatyewan Avenue, Smiths Creek
8. Taste the Tweed at Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese
Distance from Tweed Heads: 35-minute drive
A simple stop on a scenic hinterland tour, make sure to check out the Harnett family’s former dairy, Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese .
Stock up on lusciously creamy cheeses and local condiments or swing by for a paddock to plate tasting experience immersed in old-school Aussie charm – perfect for the whole family.
Address: Tweed Valley Cheeses, 6091 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar
9. Live it up at Halcyon House
Distance from Tweed Heads: 20-minute drive
Halcyon House truly lives up to its reputation as one of Australia’s premier boutique hotels. The former classic motel has undergone a remarkable makeover, thanks to the visionary interior designer Anna Spiro, to become a chic beachside retreat.
Boasting 19 rooms and two luxurious two-bedroom suites, a heavenly day spa, and the renowned restaurant Paper Daisy , it’s definitely worth the visit for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Address: Halcyon House, 21 Cypress Crescent, Cabarita Beach
10. Ride the Northern Rivers Rail Trail
Distance from Tweed Heads: 25-minute drive
Ride or walk the enchanting Northern Rivers Rail Trail, a 24-kilometre scenic path connecting Murwillumbah and Crabbes Creek. Nestled within the World Heritage territory of Northern NSW, a leisurely bike ride takes just under two hours, and walkers can plan for a four-to five-hour stroll (one way). The route boasts 18 historic railway bridges, including five heritage gems, and leads through a tunnel adorned with the radiance of glow worms.
As you meander, you’ll enjoy tranquil rivers, sweeping panoramas with the majestic Mt Warning gracing the backdrop, and discover delightful cafes and a cosy pub along the way. It’s an idyllic outing for couples or families – and the path is wheelchair and pram-friendly.
Your adventure can commence in either Murwillumbah or Crabbes Creek, though Murwillumbah is more easily reached from Tweed. Bring your own wheels or you can easily hire a bicycle, and shuttles are available for your return journey if required.
Address: Murwillumbah Railway Station, 284 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah
11. Enjoy beachfront dining at Taverna Kingscliff
Distance from Tweed Heads: 15-minute drive
Discover delectable coastal dining at its finest in the Tweed. Nestled right on the Kingscliff beachfront, you’ll find Taverna , a charming modern restaurant serving Greek-inspired cuisine, set within the most adorable little cottage. Bougainvillea elegantly adorns the white-washed walls, adding to the enchanting coastal ambience, as you dine on the freshest produce from the local region. Ideal for date night, and if you find yourself in the area on a Sunday, the chef whips up an extra special ‘sustainable banquet.’ Open Thursday – Sunday for dinner.
Address: Taverna, 22 Marine Parade, Kingscliff
12. Enjoy a picture-perfect picnic
Distance from Tweed Heads: Locations around the Tweed
Picnic amidst the great outdoors with the award-winning Blue Ginger Picnics . With a range of group and couples’ packages to choose from across different locations around the Tweed, you could be sipping champagne with your lover on the beach or fishing and feasting with friends under the watchful gaze of Mt Warning. Founder Tania’s commitment to sustainability shines through in her customised menus, showcasing the very best offerings from the region’s top food producers, perfect for savouring in the open air. The idyllic backdrop is complemented by handmade plates, exquisite linens, and natural accents.
13. Soak up the rays at D’Bah
Distance from Tweed Heads: Right in the heart
Duranbah Beach, affectionately known as D’Bah by the locals, is a top surf destination along the Tweed Coast, offering up consistently good swells year-round.
The most northerly beach in NSW, it’s just a skip and a hop to the Gold Coast and neighbouring town Coolangatta (which boasts some pretty good beaches too).
D’Bah is dog friendly and oozes laid-back surf vibes, drawing in families, surfers, and backpackers – especially in summer. Early birds will discover it’s among the prime spots to watch the breathtaking Tweed Coast sunrise.
14. Get off the beaten path at Fingal Head
Distance from Tweed Heads: 15-minute drive
For those yearning to escape the crowds and sink into serenity, a drive to Fingal is a must. This narrow strip of land, nestled between the Tweed River and the ocean, beckons you to explore its charm.
Stroll by the lighthouse, take in the beautiful views, and enjoy a lazy afternoon at the quirky Sheoak Shack cafe/gallery overlooking the water.
15. Walk on water at Ukerebagh Nature Reserve
Distance from Tweed Heads: 5-minute drive from Tweed’s centre
Best done in the drier seasons to avoid the mozzies and midges, a walk around the Ukerebagh Nature Reserve invites slow and steady steps as you explore peaceful eucalypt forests, mangroves, and a traditional Aboriginal bora ring. The trail is a cruisy 2.2 kilometres and can be explored solo or with the guidance of a local who will walk you through the cultural significance and history of the Walk on Water track. Visit the Minjungbal Museum and Cultural Centre before you begin to learn about the history of the area.
Address: 17 Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads South
16. Cruise the Tweed River
Distance from Tweed Heads: Right in the heart
Explore the waterways on a scenic river cruise with Tweed Escapes . Set foot on a classic ferry and gracefully navigate upstream along the relaxed river, whilst savouring stunning water and mountain views (you’ll find the best views of Mt Warning here). A range of cruise choices are available, from a leisurely two-hour excursion or an indulgent private charter, complete with all the bells and whistles.
17. Meander the markets
Distance from Tweed Heads: Right in the heart
Nestled by the charming waterfront of Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads offers day markets on the first Saturday of the month from 8am to 2pm, and twilight fun every second and fourth Friday from 4 to 8pm (from September to May). Bring a picnic blanket, get comfy, and dive into the chilled-out ambience as you feast and peruse the stalls. With music and a playground right next door, it’s the perfect recipe for a laid-back family day or evening out.
Address: Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Wharf St, Tweed Heads
