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Norah Head

Darkinjung Country
Norah Head Lighthouse
Norah Head

Experience the historic charm of Norah Head, NSW

Norah Head is the kind of coastal town where worries melt away; it’s where golden beaches stretch wide, the village hums with laid-back charm, and sea breezes carry the fresh scent of salt and eucalyptus. Just over an hour north of Sydney, it’s close enough for a quick escape yet feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

And then, crowning it all, stands the heritage-listed Norah Head Lighthouse — a postcard-perfect icon watching over the headland. Stay in the restored Lightkeepers’ Quarters, and you’ll be part of the story, waking to waves below and finishing your days beneath a sky scattered with stars.

Norah Head feels

Where is Norah Head?

Norah Head is on the NSW Central Coast, about 120 km north of Sydney and 75 km south of Newcastle. The headland juts into the Tasman Sea, framed by Soldiers Beach to the south and Cabbage Tree Harbour to the north, making it a photo-worthy coastal getaway.

Norah Head Region Map

Top things to do in Norah Head

Norah Head is blessed with natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to slow down. Take the family to Soldiers Beach for swimming, surfing, or a lazy day in the sun. Fishers can launch from Cabbage Tree Harbour, while walkers will love the lighthouse trail and nearby Wyrrabalong National Park. From May to November, the headland becomes one of the best whale-watching spots on the Central Coast, and live music lovers will want to make a note of the Norah Head Lighthouse Festival, which runs in November and features a whole host of amazing Aussie talent.

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Weather in Norah Head

Norah Head enjoys a mild coastal climate, perfect for year-round escapes. Average annual temperatures sit at 22.4 °C, with summer highs around 26 °C and winter lows averaging 10–11 °C. Rainfall is steady across the year, totalling about 1218 mm, with March being the wettest month and August the driest. Summer runs from late December to March, bringing warm days and balmy evenings ideal for the beach. The most popular months to visit are December through February, when the coast really comes alive.

Norah Head Lighthouse

Itinerary Ideas for Norah Head

Start your morning with a lighthouse tour — climb to the top for jaw-dropping views that call for a group selfie and a fascinating dose of history. Then, stroll the Norah Head Lighthouse Walk down to Lighthouse Beach and breathe in that gorgeous fresh sea breeze. In the afternoon, cool off with a swim at Soldiers Beach or the kid-friendly Norah Head Rock Pool, then wander into the village for coffee or cocktails. As the sun sets, head back to your cottage veranda for a BBQ and watch the horizon light up in spectacular golds and pinks.

Norah Head walking track

Norah Head Events and Attractions

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Frequently asked questions

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Is Norah Head worth visiting?

Yes, this beautiful little spot on the Central Coast of NSW is the perfect distance for a weekend away from Sydney or Newcastle. With a historic lighthouse, epic ocean views, stunning beaches and some scenic walking trails, its the perfect spot for a getaway.

Does Norah Head Lighthouse offer tours?

Yes, Norah Head Lighthouse offers daily tours from 10am - 1pm daily. Pay at the door.

Are the beaches in Norah Head patrolled?

Soldiers Beach is patrolled from the October long weekend until Easter, while Norah Beach is not.

Ways to stay in Norah Head

With Reflections, you can choose to stay in either the Head or Assistant Lightkeepers’ Quarters at Norah Head Lighthouse — two heritage-listed cottages that each sleep up to nine guests. With high ceilings, cosy living spaces, fully equipped kitchens and sweeping verandahs complete with BBQs, these historic stays offer ocean views from every window.