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Ambassador Helen Hingst - Norah Head Lighthouse

Things to Do in Norah Head

If you’re staying in Norah Head or nearby on the Central Coast, you’ll find yourself in the perfect spot for a relaxing coastal escape. Located around 115km north of Sydney (about a 90-minute drive) and just 50km south of Newcastle (under an hour by car), Norah Head offers the best of both worlds, easy to reach, yet far enough away to feel like a true holiday. From coastal walks to heritage sites, water adventures to hidden gems, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Whether you’re after fresh sea air, wildlife encounters, or a calm meal by the waves, here’s your guide.

Outdoor adventures

Water-based activities & adventure

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Credit: Ambassador Helen Mai

Surfing & swimming

Norah Head sits within a National Surfing Reserve, making it a great spot for surfers of varying levels. Soldiers Beach especially is a go-to spot, and there are surf coaching options around the area.

  • Soldiers Beach – renowned surf break, patrolled in summer.
  • Lakes Beach (Budgewoi) – family-friendly swimming with lifeguards.
  • Pelican Beach (north Soldiers) – quieter stretch for experienced surfers.

Snorkelling & Diving

The rocky reefs and underwater terrain around Norah Head attract divers and snorkelers keen to explore marine life.

  • Cabbage Tree Harbour – calm, sheltered waters for snorkelling.
  • Reefs near Norah Head Lighthouse – popular dive sites with rich marine life.
  • Tuggerah Reef – offshore site for experienced divers.

Fishing & rock fishing

The rock platforms near the lighthouse are popular among anglers targeting tailor, jewfish, snapper, and drummer.

  • Norah Head rock platforms – iconic for land-based fishing.
  • Pelican Point – reliable spot for mixed catches.
  • Hargraves Beach – good for beach fishing in the late afternoon.

Paddleboarding & Kayaking

Calmer inlets and nearby bays make for pleasant paddleboarding or kayaking ventures.

  • Tuggerah Lake – flatwater paddling for all levels.
  • Budgewoi Lake – scenic and family-friendly.
  • Coastline between Lakes Beach and Hargraves Beach – stunning on calm days.

Coastal walks & headland trails

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Credit: Ambassador Helen Mai

The headland is crisscrossed with walking tracks, perfect for spotting whales in migration season and taking in wild coastal scenery.

Rock Pools & Beaches

The rock shelves near the lighthouse reveal fascinating marine life at low tide, while Soldiers Beach is ideal for a classic day in the surf and sun.

Wyrrabalong National Park

A short drive away, this park is filled with native bushland, birdlife, and trails that weave between forest and coast.

Norah Head Lighthouse

 

At the heart of Norah Head stands the heritage-listed Norah Head Lighthouse, a striking coastal landmark that has guided ships along the Central Coast since the early 1900s. Perched high above the ocean, the lighthouse offers sweeping views across the Pacific and is a must-see for visitors to the region.

Join a guided tour led by a knowledgeable local volunteer and step inside this historic working lighthouse.

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Credit: Ambassador Helen Mai

Hargraves House (Noraville)

Just a short drive away in neighbouring Noraville, you’ll find Hargraves House, one of the Central Coast’s oldest surviving buildings. Dating back to the 1850s, this heritage home provides a glimpse into the area’s early European settlement and adds another layer of history to a visit to Norah Head.

The Entrance (nearby)

Around 15 minutes from Norah Head, The Entrance is a popular day trip destination known for its waterfront, pelican feeding, shops and dining options.

Nearby Activities

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Family-friendly & offbeat ideas

  • Wildlife Spotting – from migrating whales (May–Nov) to seabirds along the headlands.
  • Picnic Train Day Trips – heritage steam train rides run occasionally in the region.
  • Local Shops – browse the surf stores and general shop for beach gear and coastal keepsakes.

Local spots to eat and drink in Norah Head

Cafés and casual eats

Norah Head Beach Haus

Norah Head Beach Haus is a relaxed beachside café near the lighthouse and rock pool, known for good coffee, bagels and brunch-style dishes. Ideal for breakfast or a casual lunch with ocean views.

The Island Café

The Island Café is a popular local café offering coffee, breakfast and lunch options in a friendly, laid-back setting.

Surfside Snax

Surfside Snax is a casual spot for coffee, light meals and takeaway food — perfect if you’re heading to or from the beach.

Norah Head Patisserie

Norah Head Patisserie serves pastries, cakes and coffee, making it a great stop for morning tea or a sweet treat.

The Kraken Kiosk

A beachside kiosk offering coffee, snacks and simple meals, ideal for something easy while enjoying the coastline.

Local restaurants

Johnny Tapas

A well-known local favourite serving tapas, wood-fired pizzas and cocktails, Johnny Tapas is a relaxed spot for dinner or long lunches with friends.

Norah Head Sporties Bistro

A small local restaurant offering relaxed dining and consistently good reviews, the Norah Head Sporties is popular with locals.

*Additional dining options can be found in nearby towns such as Toukley, Charmhaven and The Entrance, all within a 10–15 minute drive and offering a wider range of cuisines.

Markets and local food

Norah Head Ocean View Markets

Held monthly near the ocean, these markets feature food stalls, coffee, artisan produce and local makers, making them a popular spot for breakfast or brunch.

Norah Head Food & Drink

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Seasonal activities & events

Summer

Summer in Norah Head is all about coastal living. Long, sunny days invite swimming, surfing and exploring the rock pools, while the headland and lighthouse provide spectacular ocean views. It’s the perfect time for beach walks, picnics by the sea and enjoying the relaxed Central Coast atmosphere, with nearby cafes, markets and community events adding to the summer holiday vibe.

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Winter

Norah Head shines just as brightly in the cooler months. Winter brings crisp mornings ideal for coastal walks and headland hikes, followed by warming up in a local café. It’s also one of the best times of year for whale watching, with humpback whales passing the coastline on their annual migration — a highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Events in and around Norah Head

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Frequently asked questions

Didn’t find what you were looking for? We’re here to help. Get in touch here.

Where is Norah Head located?

Norah Head is a coastal village on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, known for its beaches, lighthouse and nature, nestled between Wyong and The Entrance.

How far is Norah Head from Newcastle?

Norah Head is approximately 55 km southwest of Newcastle, making it around a 45-minute drive depending on traffic.

How long does it take to drive to Norah Head from Sydney?

By car, Norah Head is about 1.5 hours north of Sydney, offering an easy day trip or weekend getaway from the city.

Are there dog-friendly beaches at Norah Head?

Parts of the coastline near Norah Head do allow dogs, particularly south of the rockpool toward Gravelly Beach, where owners often walk their dogs along the sand.

Does Norah Head have patrolled beaches and lifeguards?

Norah Head’s beaches are part of the wider Central Coast coastline, which includes patrolled beaches nearby, but Norah Head itself doesn’t have permanent lifeguard patrols at all beach areas.

What wildlife experiences can visitors enjoy at Norah Head?

Norah Head’s coastal setting and nearby national parks make it great for birdwatching, whale watching during migration season, and nature walks among littoral rainforest and headland lookouts.

Ways to stay in Norah Head

Looking for Norah Head accommodation?

If you’re looking for Norah Head accommodation, you can’t go past a stay in one of the charming Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottages at Norah Head Lighthouse. These beautifully restored heritage cottages sit just steps from the historic lighthouse itself, offering a truly unique coastal escape.

Choose between the Head Keeper’s Quarters, ideal for families or groups, and the Assistant Keeper’s Quarters, perfect for couples or smaller gatherings.

Each features comfortable living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and sweeping ocean views that make this a stay to remember. It’s a rare chance to experience a piece of Australian maritime history while enjoying the tranquillity of the coast.