📍20 Best Things To Do In Evans Head, NSW. (2024.)
LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN EVAN HEAD, NSW?
Along the spectacular Northern Rivers coastline of New South Wales lies Evans Head. Located between the more prolific destinations of Ballina and Yamba, this stunning place often falls under the radar of those researching and visiting what to see and do in the region. But it shouldn’t.
Because, with a laid-back atmosphere, spectacular beaches, two national parks, a nature reserve and notable ties to World War II, there is no shortage of incredible attractions, activities and things to do in Evans Head that will make you as enamoured with it as I did after visiting here for several days on two occasions.
👉 My top 3 picks for what to do in Evans Head & surrounds:
- Explore the rugged beauty of Dirawong Headland Reserve.
- Learn about the town’s military heritage at the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Museum.
- Kayak the Evans Head Paddle Route.
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Best Things To Do In Evans Head.
1. Play In The Ocean.
Evans Head Main Beach.
Like all seaside towns, one of the first things to do in Evans Head is to beeline straight towards the beach. Main Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand on the northern side of the river and is a fantastic place to start any visit to the town. And as the town’s only patrolled beach, it’s also the safest place in Evans Head to frolic in the ocean, perfect for families and inexperienced swimmers.
2. Relax At A Beautiful Park.
Evans Head Recreation Reserve.
Evans Head Recreation Reserve is a beautiful parkland that lies along the river behind Main Beach. With views overlooking both the natural and urban landscapes, it’s a lovely spot for a seaside or riverside walk, cycle, swim, skate, picnic, BBQ or get-together.
3. Take The Kids For A Play In The River.
Watsons Beach.
Families looking for somewhere to take their young kids to play in the river will love Watsons Bay. Accessible through Evans Head Recreation Reserve, this small, shallow area cordoned off by rocks is a fantastic safe swimming area where little ones can enjoy splashing around in the water.
However, it is heavily tide-dependent, so by the time I arrived, the river bed was completely exposed, so time your visit accordingly if you have plans to swim there.
4. Walk The Break Walls.
Evans Head North and South Break Wall.
Another way to take in the town’s picturesque landscape is by walking the break walls. The northern break wall is accessible by Evans Head Recreation Reserve and has lovely views of the river and coastline north.
But if you only have time for one, make it the southern break wall, as it has uninterrupted views of the headlands south and beautiful views of the aforementioned Shark Bay.
5. Visit Evans Head Prettiest Beach.
Shark Bay Beach.
Speaking of Shark Bay, this beautiful spot is another fantastic, easily accessible beach worth visiting in Evans Head. The tiny patch of sand beside the southern break wall is one of the town’s prettiest locations and is for swimming, body boarding, skip boarding, sunbaking and more.
6. Enjoy Panoramic Views Of The Coastline.
Razorback Lookout.
One of the most unmissable places to visit in Evans Head is Razorback Lookout. This stunning spot atop the headland beside Shark Bay is the town’s most breathtaking vantage point, with incredible panoramic views overlooking a lengthy stretch of coastline north from the viewing deck, including the township, the Evans River mouth, its two break walls, and nothing but pristine beach from there on out. There are even more views from the other side showcasing the rugged beauty of Dirawong Reserve and its stunning headlands.
This is also an excellent spot to search for pods of dolphins swimming about or even whales during their annual migration up and down the East Coast (July-November). Watch for puffs of water called blows as the giant sea creature comes to the surface to breathe. If they feel more lively, they may spy hop, tail slap or perform their most impressive move, the breach where they jump completely out of the water and create a huge splash, so keep your eyes peeled!
7. Explore Pristine Coastal Landscapes.
Dirawong Reserve.
For even more beautiful views of the landscape, head to Dirawong Reserve just south of Razorback Lookout. This large, 300-hectare culturally significant place has a handful of trails that lead to several spectacular natural lookouts and pristine beaches between Half-Tide Rock and Goanna Headland.
The tracks officially start from two places: the end of Anson Avenue and Chinamans Beach Road. The Anson Avenue walks in the northern part of the reserve take in stunning views of the rugged coastal landscape from high up on the headlands. I loved the views from Half Tide Rock which overlooks the breathtaking rocky shores of Half Tide Beach.
Meanwhile, the Beach Walk from Chinamans Beach Road follows the beach of the same name south across the bottom of the gorgeous multi-tonal cliff face of the Bluff the neighbouring New Zealand Beach all the way to Goanna Headland and its very tip Snapper Point, which has magnificent sea cliffs at its furthermost end. But that’s not the only reason this was my favourite walk.
While I was fortunate enough to see dolphins during both these walks I’ve mentioned, on the day that I did the latter trail, they were particularly playful and I saw them playing in the water nearby and on multiple occasions, surfing the waves and jumping out of them very close to shore! I’ve never consistently seen so many of these marine animals at one time, so the reserve is an excellent place to go if you want to see them in the wild. Plus, there were heaps of kangaroos on the headland too.
What’s also interesting is that just before Goanna Headland is a military bombing training range, so you can walk through and see the scars left behind by the Air Force doing target practice, which is both sad and incredibly fascinating!
Note: If you take the Beach Track, be wary of the tides because if it is too high, crossing the Bluff between the two beaches may involve traversing over potentially slippery rock ledges instead of walking along the sand. The Ridge Track offers an alternative way of reaching or returning from New Zealand Beach and Goanna Headland/ Snapper Point, however, it’s not nearly as scenic.
8. Learn The Area’s Military History And See Historic Aircraft.
Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Museum. – $.
One of the most notable things about Evans Head is the role it played during the Second World War. Before one of recent history’s bloodiest battles, the town established an emergency landing strip. But when the war broke out in 1939, the aerodrome was upgraded to become the No.1 Bombing and Gunnery School. Over 5,500 men and women underwent training before being deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific.
Today, people can learn about the operations courtesy of the friendly volunteers who run the attraction and see numerous full-size retired military aircraft up close at the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Museum, nicknamed the F-111 Museum for short, because holy smokes, that is a mouthful. Try saying that ten times fast.
The planes and helicopters on display are not just from the World War II era either, as the showpiece is the iconic F-111C Fighter Jet, the modern-day poster child of the Australian Air Force and something everyone enjoys seeing, including kids. Along with being able to see these marvels of jet engineering up close, you can also look inside the cockpits of many of them and see the joysticks and complex instruments used to get these warbirds off the ground. Three of them you are even allowed inside of, including the cargo carrier, the Caribou, which provides even more insights into these incredible aerial machines.
While the museum definitely piques the interest of war and history buffs and plane enthusiasts the most, this isn’t one of those attractions you’ll want to skip out on, as it’s one of the best things to do at Evans Head and an important part of its heritage.
Note: As I learnt from visiting the museum, Evans Head is still used as a place to train military pilots how to bomb. You can walk through the scarred landscape that they use for bombing practice just before the Goanna Headland in Dirawong Reserve at the end of the Beach Walk or the Ridge Track. They are entitled to 43 days a year to use it, but the area is just a walking trail with no fence or anything, so I’m not sure how that works unless it’s electronic targeting or something similar. But nevertheless, it just adds to Evans Head’s intrigue.
9. Uncover More Local History.
Evans Head Living Museum. – $.
Another place people can go to learn about the history of Evans Head is at the small Living Museum next to the Information Centre behind the Recreation Reserve. The tiny museum showcases several of the area’s most defining moments, themes and industries, including World War II, Aboriginal culture, the natural environment, land cultivation, fishing and mining.
10. Enjoy More Of The Pristine Coastline.
Air Force Beach.
The beach scene at Evans Head is fantastic, but folks looking to explore more of the coastline than their feet will take them can do so if they have a 4WD, as Air Force Beach is open to beach driving.
Accessible from Terrace Street, discover 4.5km of pristine sand and find a place to enjoy all manner of beach activities such as swimming, boogie-boarding, kite surfing, sand castle building, sunbaking, and so much more to yourself.
That alone makes it a fantastic way to spend a day, but cementing it as one the best Evans Head attractions is that 1.6km of the driveable beach is also pet-friendly, so your furry four-legged friend can come on your remote seaside adventure with you!
11. Blue Pool.
One of Evans Head’s best places to visit is perhaps its least known. The Blue Pool is a small but stunning, naturally occurring waterhole on the outskirts of the town. It’s a gorgeous local haunt that I absolutely adored surrounded by soft grey-tiered rocks that make it both photogenically beautiful and a spectacular place to swim in a picturesque setting and reconnect with nature.
And because it is such a hidden gem, you’ll likely get the place to yourself, especially on weekdays, making visiting this place one of the most memorable things to do at Evans Head. I absolutely loved this place but as it is a still, natural waterhole, it’s prone to blue-green algae, which is unhealthy for humans to be in, so before entering, use your best judgment as to whether you should enter, especially if there is visible growth on the surface.
Broadwater National Park.
One of the best things to do around Evans Head is to check out the two national parks on either side of town. Broadwater National Park sits on the northern side and is a pristine stretch of coastal heaven. So if you’re looking for beachside seclusion, you can’t go past this one. It’s also the closest and easiest of the two to access as it runs alongside Broadwater Evans Road, one of the two roads into town.
12. Walk Along A Pristine Beach.
Broadwater Beach.
The beach at Broadwater National Park is stunning. The sand is a clean white, contrasted by scattered black rocks, while the ruggedness of the towering dune cliffs gives the landscape a timeless and untouched feel. It’s a beautiful place, and the walk to it is even more picturesque, perfect for those who love seclusion.
There are two areas where you can reach the beach. The quickest and easiest is from Broadwater Beach Picnic Area at the end of Finns Road. You can also get in from Broadwater Beach Road. While it’s a bit longer, it’s much more scenic, and I highly recommend it.
👉 Something to note is that both involve a steep, soft sandy descent to beach level, which may be challenging for some people.
13. Get Lovely Views Of The Coastline.
Broadwater Beach Lookout.
Just around the corner from the second beach access is the Broadwater Beach Lookout. This beautiful spot at the end of Sea View Crescent has picturesque views overlooking the beach directly below it and distant views of the coastline in both directions.
It’s an especially great spot for whale watching during the whale migration season between May and November. Better yet, because it’s a car lookout, you only need to take a few steps to enjoy the scenery, making it a lovely spot where people of all abilities can visit. There are also fantastic views on the drive up too!
14. Appreciate The Untouched Coastal Landscape.
Broadwater Inland Lookout.
Those wondering about walks in Broadwater National Park, unfortunately, there aren’t many. There are a handful of fire trails, but aside from leisurely strolling along the beach, there’s only one track worth noting which goes to Broadwater Inland Lookout.
This short, 1km return track is an easy uphill excursion, and although it doesn’t have a proper lookout spot, you’ll know you’re there as it’s the only area with a view before the path goes slightly further inland and ends at a large concrete square. The scenery overlooks the national park’s sand dune forests, the sandy beaches and the glistening ocean and is a refreshingly untouched visual.
Bundjalong National Park.
On the southern side of town is Evan’s Head’s second national park Bundjalung, a massive 210sqkm coastal wilderness that stretches to the quaint village of Iluka 35km south and is perfect for reconnecting with nature and isolated adventures.
👉 There are day-use fees to visit Bundjalung National Park. Alternatively, frequent visitors to New South Wales National Parks can buy an Annual Pass. See the right panel on the NPWS website for more information.
15. Explore The River And Watch For Jumping Fish.
Evans River Paddle Route.
The best way to experience Bundjalung National Park is by paddle craft. Launch from the Gummingurrah Picnic Area at the end of Bundjalung Road on the southern side of town and enjoy the ambient sounds of birds chirping and water rippling as you row a narrow creek north towards the much larger Evans River.
Heading inland, watch the water’s surface for jumping fish and the dead trees for birds such as cormorants as they like to spread their wings out to dry after fishing. The route also has numerous isolated beaches where you can dock and stretch your legs, explore or enjoy a snack.
It’s a beautiful day out on the water, but be wary of the tides. The creek gets very shallow at low tide, and you may have to drag your watercraft through the creekbed as I had to on the return journey. That is especially troublesome if you are alone and can’t lift the entire vessel, as some sections have unavoidable rocks.
👉 Note: Although the access road was mostly flat when I went in March 2023, it was full of sizeable pot hots and therefore was unsuitable for conventional vehicles, so until they fill them in, proceed at your own risk.
16. Discover A Beautiful Beach Landscape.
Black Rocks/ Coffee Rocks.
Halfway between Evans Head and the picturesque village of Iluka is Black Rocks, also known more descriptively accurately as Coffee Rocks. They are a series of dark, chocolatey brown formations on the beach, starkly contrasting the white sand surrounding them.
It’s a beautiful spot right by the Black Rocks Camping Area and was my favourite place to watch the sun rising over the ocean and enjoy a peaceful walk along a stunning isolated beach.
17. Enjoy Wild Swimming On A Hot Day.
Jerusalem Creek.
A short distance from Black Rocks is Jerusalem Creek. This picturesque spot in the middle of nowhere is the perfect place to enjoy to unwind. Whether splashing around in the shallows, jumping off the pontoon, or just floating in the water watching the clouds pass by on those hot days, this is one magnificent wild swimming hole you won’t want to miss!
18. Go Remote Paddling.
Jerusalem Creek Paddle Route.
Another way to enjoy Jerusalem Creek is by human-powered watercraft. Stand-up paddleboarding is a lovely way to enjoy the peace and serenity of the remote waterway. But for the most immersive experience, nothing beats using a canoe or kayak to explore the furthest reaches.
As you paddle north towards the ocean, keep your eye peeled for the incredible birdlife that calls this place home. Cormorants love airing their wings out on dead trees, while sea eagles often ride the warm thermals above or sit on the barren branches of tall trees as do whistling kites. You may even spot one of the elusive but magnificent cousins of the kookaburra, the kingfisher, notable for their long pointy beaks and semi-iridescent feathers.
More adventurous paddlers can extend their trip into an overnighter thanks to the Jerusalem Creek campground at the end of the 4.6km paddle trail.
19. Go Walking Through The Dunes.
Jerusalem Creek & Emu Creek Walking Track.
Those without a paddle craft or looking for an alternative walking trail to the beach or another way to get to the Jerusalem Creek campground can enjoy strolling the track of the same name. It starts at the Jerusalem Creek pontoon and follows the waterway to the campground for a 10.3km return journey.
People looking for a shorter trail can begin with this track for 1km, then turn onto the Emu Creek path back to the campground before returning along the road to the car park or vice versa.
While neither of these are the most scenic walks, the former has a handful of lovely viewpoints overlooking the river, while the latter displays numerous colours thanks to the wildflowers and foliage that change colours throughout the year.
20. Look Up At The Galaxy.
Stargazing.
Bundjalung National Park is in the middle of nowhere. The seclusion is part of what makes it such a fantastic place. And when night comes, it’s that seclusion and lack of light pollution that makes the stargazing so spectacular.
While it wasn’t this exact spot, I saw the longest shooting star I have ever seen while looking up at the sky from Yamba, the next major town south of here, so if that’s any indication of what the sky gazing is like here, it’s a pretty good one. So whether you’re camping at the Black Rocks Camping area or just coming out to have a long gander at the night sky, Bundjalung is a fantastic place to do so.
Evans Head Map.
Accommodation: Where To Stay In Evans Head.
- Mid Range: Reflections Holiday Parks Evans Head.
Visiting Evans Head: Frequently Asked Questions.
Where Is Evans Head, NSW?
Evans Head is located just off the Pacific Highway 148 km south of Queensland’s Gold Coast and 175 km north of the prolific seaside city of Coffs Harbour. It lies within the Richmond Valley subregion of the Northern Rivers.
What Is Evans Head Known For?
These days Evan Heads is known for its spectacular beaches. There are a handful in town to discover, but the nearby Broadwater National Park has an extensive stretch of pristine beaches perfect for people who love that sense of isolation and wilderness.
It is also known for the role it played as an emergency landing ground during the Second World War and for training personnel for the British war effort, which is on display at the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Museum.
Can You Drive On The Beach At Evans Head, NSW?
Yes! 4WDs can drive north along Air Force Beach from the access point on Terrace Street. And unlike many driveable beaches in New South Wales, no permit is required to do so.
Better yet, it’s also an off-leash dog area, so you don’t have to go on fun beach adventures with your furry friend.
What To Do In Evans Head For Kids?
There are plenty of things to do at Evans Head for kids.
Between going to the beach to swim, boogie board or surf, running around with the dog on Air Force Beach, searching for dolphins or whales (during whale watching season) at the break walls or Dirawong Reserve, taking them kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on Evans River or mountain biking riding in New Italy, there’s plenty to keep children of all ages entertained.
How Long Does It Take To Travel To Evans Head From Ballina?
Driving from Ballina to Evans Head takes a little over half an hour to travel the 42km stretch along the Pacific Motorway(M1) and using the Broadwater exit.
How Far Is It From Byron Bay To Evans Head?
From Byron Bay, it’s a 70km journey to get to Evans Head following the Pacific Motorway (M1) and heading into town along the Broadwater exit.
Conclusion: What To Do At Evans Head, NSW.
While it’s only a small town, and may not seem like it, there are plenty of fantastic things to do in Evans Head, from swimming at its pristine beaches, kayaking its rivers, exploring its rugged headland and learning about its military history that makes it well worth pulling off the highway to see.
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