17 unique things to do in Tweed Heads and beyond

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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.

kids running outside Husk Distillers

Head to Husk Distillers for fun family picnics. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

a couple enjoying rum tasting at Husk Distillers

Sign up for an incredible rum-tasting experience at Husk Distillers. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

guests admiring artworks at Murwillumbah

Murwillumbah is the creative and cultural epicentre of the Tweed. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Address: M-Arts Precinct, Corner of Proudfoots Lane and Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah

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.

guests admiring artworks displayed on the walls at Tweed Regional Gallery

Admire outstanding artwork at Tweed Regional Gallery. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Explore the artist’s life and work, including a faithful recreation of her home studio, a captivating trove of paintings and household relics.

a couple visiting the yellow room at Margaret Olley Art Centre, Tweed Regional Gallery

The Yellow Room is a recreation of the home studio of artist Margaret Olley. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

cows roaming around Farm & Co Kingscliff

Unwind in a charming farm setting. (Image: Jess Kearney)

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.

scenic country views of Mount Warning in the Tweed Range

The fog lifts to reveal the majestic beauty of Wollumbin/Mt Warning. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

baskets on display at Heath's Old Wares, Burringbar

Find baskets of all kinds at Heath’s Old Wares.

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.

a couple relaxing on the balcony at Ecoasis Retreat

Spend a romantic weekend at Ecoasis Retreat.

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.

a man on the balcony at Ecoasis Retreat

Disconnect from the world at Ecoasis Retreat.

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.

the property exterior of Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese

Step into Tweed Valley Farmhouse Cheese to sample creamy cheeses. (Image: Mick Campbell)

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.

the pool at Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach

Relax by the pool at Halcyon House. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

the Paper Daisy restaurant located within boutique hotel Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach.

Dine at Paper Daisy Restaurant located within the boutique hotel. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

an aerial view of the historic railway bridge at Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Cycle the historic railway bridge. (Image: Kiff & Culture)

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. 

two people riding their bikes along Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Go cycling under the shade of trees along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. (Image: Kiff & Culture)

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.

Menu at Taverna Byron Bay

The spotlight is firmly on local produce here. (Image: Ryan Fowler Photography)

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.

a scenic morning view of Duranbah Beach, Tweed Heads

Catch the early morning waves at Duranbah Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

an aerial view of Fingal Head, Tweed

Fingal Head is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding. (Image: Destination NSW)

Stroll by the lighthouse, take in the beautiful views, and enjoy a lazy afternoon at the quirky Sheoak Shack cafe/gallery overlooking the water.

scenic coastal views from Fingal Head at sunrise

Wake up early to admire dreamy sunrise views at Fingal Head. (Image: David Kirkland)

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.

friends kayaking on Tweed River

Enjoy an early morning kayak tour on Tweed River. (Image: Destination NSW)

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.

Jack Evans Boat Harbour Market

Shop the markets along the charming waterfront of Jack Evans Boat Harbour,

Address: Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Wharf St, Tweed Heads

Jessica Humphries is a travel and wellbeing writer, with a passion for slow travel, nature, and exploring the world mindfully. Formerly the editor of Australian Yoga Journal and a current contributor to a number of well-being publications, Jessica's writing is inspired by her love for yoga, wellness and sustainable living. Her work is a celebration of the beauty of the world and the joys of gentle travel. She is based in the Northern Rivers of NSW and loves to explore her local area too!
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Coco Pops coffee and Biscoff scrolls are luring city dwellers to a tiny Tweed Heads hole-in-the-wall

Bringing iconic Aussie sweets to a Northern New South Wales laneway, Public Supply is attracting unprecedented crowds every morning.

For three weeks straight, a cubbyhole cafe has seen round-the-block queues from 7am each morning. The objects of everyone’s affection? Fluffy glazed baked goods and a double shot espresso garnished with Coco Pops.

Welcome to Public Supply, a hole-in-the-wall of a residential apartment block in Tweed Heads, right opposite the Tweed River. It opened at the end of August 2025, and I visit on a mid-September Sunday, hoping early-day processions have dissolved into less-hectic trickles. Peering over from a sandy beach across the road, I see a crowd growing by the second and realise I’m out of luck. Public Supply cements the Tweed Heads, a once-sleepy Northern NSW coastal town located right on the border of Queensland, as a certified foodie magnet.

You’ll find Public Supply in a totally unassuming laneway

Public Supply is the brainchild of two couples, Ross Whitlock and Alysha Buckingham, and Kurt Foggo and Kallie Hunter. The foursome envisioned serious grab-and-go potential after observing several cult foodie operations in the area, including a cowboy-themed cold brew bar (Sun Devil Drinks Co.), which draws queues around the corner, and a Detroit-inspired deep-dish pizza slinger (Franc Jrs), a hot dinner ticket just two blocks over.

Built in a former Japanese eatery, the design is crafty in its simplistic fit-out. One long metal countertop with a silver La Marzocco coffee machine stacks trayfuls of scrolls at one end and drinks down the other. There’s no formal seating, but benches built into the apartment block’s laneway are snapped up by customers and the team puts out folding chairs and glass-topped milk crates to create make-shift tables. Ross and Kurt run the show, leaning on a local commercial kitchen to help whip up the daily dough, before the duo gets to cutting, baking (in the two onsite ovens behind the counter), and lavishly smothering their scrolls in various glazes.

It’s tight in there, but I spot six completely frazzle-free staffers, including Ross and Kurt, on the tools during my visit. Their well-oiled machine — which churns out about 48 scrolls per oven, per bake — undoubtedly contributes to this viral success. Kallie tells me they’re selling a minimum of 300 scrolls per day and a single Friday saw roughly 500 scrolls sold. Incredible.

The must-try items on the menu at Public Supply

Coco Pops coffee at Public Supply in Tweed Heads

The Coco Pops mocha is a hit with patrons. (Image: Supplied)

The Coco Pop Mocha is my favourite item on the menu, even compared to the pudgy-perfect, lens-magnet scrolls. A large white, branded mug is filled with Coco Pops-infused milk before a double shot of espresso, crafted from house-blend beans, is added, then finished off with a generous heaping of Coco Pops. It’s entirely photogenic, just like a chocolate milkshake, only crunchy, while still offering the caffeine hit I’m craving. Even more impressive, the coffee is balanced, the taste lingering even as the Coco Pops soften. The genius of it all makes me wonder why I haven’t tried this at home. It’s priced at $11, which is reasonable for a serving of cereal and strong coffee.

The Biscoff scroll and Pistachio scroll at Public Supply

The Biscoff scroll (left) and Pistachio scroll (right) are made fresh onsite daily. (Image: Supplied)

The other non-negotiable is one of their TikTok-famous cinnamon scrolls. I struggled to choose between all six varieties: the Naked Cinny ($10) sans gooey cream cheese topping, the Original Glaze ($11) with vanilla-infused cream cheese, the Pistachio ($11) with pistachio glaze and pistachio dough infusion, the Biscoff Crumble ($11) with Biscoff cream cheese and Biscoff dough infusion, the Choccy Bueno ($11) which tastes like a Kinder Surprise, and the Vegemite & Cheese Scroll ($11). Wherever you land, the dough is pillowy (as though you’re taking from the middle of a bake tray and never from the edges), the portion size is giant, and if you’re holding a glazed one, the topping is abundantly spread. BYO wet wipes because this is a glorious, messy indulgence — you can’t avoid getting sticky.

Matcha menu at Public Supply

A variety of inventive Matcha options are on the menu too. (Image: Supplied)

The other trending menu items are the two matcha drinks: the Matcha Blanc ($8) with orange-infused matcha topped with cold matcha cream foam, and the Matcha Cloud ($8) with coconut water and cold matcha cream foam. I’m not a matcha devotee myself, but Kallie tells me the Matcha Cloud is a daily fan favourite.

Additionally, there are two kid-exclusive menu items: the Fairy Bread for $4, which uses the same Original Glaze cream cheese topping, and a Cereal Cup for $5, where you can choose between Coco Pops or Crunchy Nut Cornflakes with milk.

How Public Supply became a viral sensation

Kallie tells me that on opening day, Public Supply sold out of cinnamon scrolls in 45 minutes. The following day, double the amount sold out again. On the day I visit, they’re two hours away from a midday close and figures are sitting at 461 sold. Utterly bananas.

After seeing it myself, it’s clear this cafe went viral on entirely organic terms. Ross, who created the menu and brings more than a decade of hospitality experience to the helm, genuinely loves scrolls (though more savoury than sweet) and he’s baking things he and his mates simply love to eat themselves. Serving customers with real smiles and all the patience, Public Supply is unpretentious and a true product of its relaxed riverside surroundings. The outstanding sweet novelty factor is, quite literally, the icing on the cake of this slam dunk operation.

Details

If you’re driving to Public Supply from the Gold Coast, take the Gold Coast Highway past the Gold Coast Airport to Coolangatta Rd and follow the signs to Tweed Heads. It’s about eight minutes from the airport. If you’re road tripping from Byron Bay or Coffs Harbour, drive up the M1 past the border before taking the Kennedy Dr exit. Tap Wharf Rd into Maps to reach Public Supply in just a few minutes.

Address: Shop 10/29 Wharf Rd, Tweed Heads

Opening hours: 7am to 12pm, daily, but you’ll only score scrolls from Wednesday to Sunday.