Stunning views along the long coast of Hat Head National Park can be had here at NSW's most elevated lighthouse (1891) at the northern end of the park. It's also a great spot to look for whales during migration season from May to September. It's a short but fairly steep climb up.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Trial Bay Gaol

3.29 MILES

Occupying Trial Bay's eastern headland, this sandstone prison was built between 1877 and 1886 to house convicts brought in to build a breakwater. When…

2. Yarriabini National Park

12.06 MILES

The highlight of this lush, rainforest-filled park is the dramatic coastal view from the lookout on the summit of Mt Yarriabini, which is accessible via a…

3. Kempsey Museum

19.13 MILES

Housed in the unique Glenn Murcutt Building, this museum honours the memory of the sheep shearers, lumber whackers, cattle pokers and others who made the…

5. V-Wall

19.48 MILES

For decades residents and holidaymakers have decorated the rocks of Nambucca's breakwater with vivacious multicoloured artwork, and with notes to lovers,…

6. Captain Cook Lookout

19.55 MILES

Of the area's numerous viewpoints, Captain Cook Lookout, set on a high bluff, is the best to ponder the array of beaches, and to look for whales during…

7. Shelly Beach

19.57 MILES

To reach the sheltered tide pools of pretty Shelly Beach, head down the road from Captain Cook Lookout.

8. Beilbys Beach

19.93 MILES

The secluded northern extension of Shelly Beach is wide and sandy, and good for surfing.