Things To Do
in Tweed Heads
Tweed Heads sits at the southern end of the Gold Coast strip, where river meets sea and the border between New South Wales and Queensland adds local charm. This relaxed coastal town offers sun-kissed beaches, calm estuaries, and a friendly cafe scene, with easy access to lush hinterland and national parks. It serves as a gateway to both the Tweed Valley and the Gold Coast, making day trips to nature reserves, markets, and coastal villages simple.
Visitors come for laid-back beach life, scenic viewpoints, and warm hospitality in a region known for outdoor living.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tweed Heads and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores of Coolangatta Beach, soaking in the stunning views of the golden coastline. Grab a coffee from a local café as you watch the surfers catching waves.
Explore the vibrant Tweed River on a kayak or join a boat tour to appreciate the picturesque scenery. Visit the Tweed Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre to delve into the rich art culture of the region. Stop by the local markets and pick up some fresh produce or handmade crafts.
Enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood with a view of the sunset over the bay. Take a leisurely walk along the esplanade, enjoying the evening breeze and the sound of the waves. Wind down with a nightcap at a cozy bar featuring live music.
Embark on a guided hike through the lush rainforests of the nearby National Park. Look out for native wildlife, including koalas and vibrant bird species, while learning about the local flora and fauna. Finish your hike with a refreshing picnic surrounded by nature.
Visit the Natural Bridge, a stunning rock formation and waterfall, where you can also take a short walk through the glow worm cave. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and snap pictures of the picturesque scenery. Return to Tweed Heads and unwind at a local café with some sweet treats.
Head out for a memorable dining experience at one of the region's top-rated restaurants, known for its modern Australian cuisine. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife at local bars or enjoy a relaxed evening at a beachside pub. Capture the serene night view of the ocean under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-5 |
| 🥗Casual lunch | $15-25 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $8-12 |
| 🚖Taxi or rideshare start fare | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and river scenery
- Easy access to hinterland national parks and art culture
- Can be busy during peak holiday seasons
- Less nightlife compared to central Gold Coast
Places to Visit in Tweed Heads
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic coastal vantage with sweeping ocean views and dramatic sunsets over the Gold Coast skyline.
Long, uncrowded surf beach with rock walls and vantage points for wide-angle coastal shots.
Northern Gold Coast beach known for dramatic waves and backdrops of headlands.
Waterfront reflections and silhouettes with boats and mangroves during golden hour.
Vibrant sunset scenes with palm-lined shores and lighted promenades.
Food in Tweed Heads
Tweed Heads Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fish fillet served with fries in casual beachfront venues.
Must-Try!
Chargrilled prawns with a citrus-dressed salad, common at seaside eateries.
Light meringue dessert topped with passion fruit and fresh fruit, a staple at local cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal beachfront market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and ready-to-eat bites along the promenade.
Weekly market with local fruit, vegetables, baked goods, and street food treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Australians value fairness; queue patiently and respect personal space in crowded areas.
Use sunscreen, swim between lifeguard flags, and respect local beach rules and wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Tweed Heads
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service at restaurants is appreciated.
Cash is accepted but cards and contactless payments are widely used; EFTPOS and mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with regular afternoon storms; water is warm and inviting, but sunscreen and hydration are essential; crowds peak on weekends and holidays.
Milder humidity and pleasant temperatures; great for outdoor activities and coastal walks with fewer crowds.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; whale watching season begins along the coast; occasional showers possible.
Warm days with increasing sunshine; ideal for hiking, markets, and outdoor dining, with sporadic rain showers.
Tweed Heads at Night
Hiking in Tweed Heads
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Challenging 6-8 km return hike through rainforest with panoramic views at the summit.
Moderate walk to a series of waterfalls with shaded rainforest.
Easy to moderate loop trails with sweeping hinterland vistas.
Airports
How to reach Tweed Heads by plane.
Major international and domestic flights; quick drive to Tweed Heads and Coolangatta.
Regional airport to the north; about a 70-90 minute drive to Tweed Heads.
Smaller regional airport nearby; convenient for Northern Rivers access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families seek a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy beach access and parks.
A significant portion of residents are retirees drawn to the climate and community feel.
Strong seasonal influx from across Australia and NZ, attracted by beaches and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Core sport of the coast; world-class breaks at Coolangatta and Kirra.
Numerous courses in the region with ocean views.
Popular community sports across local grounds and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tweed Heads.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian mains; look for veggie options like salads, veggie burgers, and pasta dishes; many menus can adapt to dietary needs with prior notice.