Things to Do in Red Rock

Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Corindi River on the Mid-North Coast of NSW, is the sleepy hamlet of Red Rock.

With a population of only 412, this hidden gem is the northernmost village of the Coffs Coast, and only half an hours’ drive from bustling Coffs Harbour.

Red Rock is blessed with more than its fair share of unspoiled beaches, stunning headlands, top fishing spots and picture-perfect riverside picnic areas. It’s a slice of seaside paradise that draws in nature lovers, beach-goers, adventurers and those craving some real downtime.

Right on the town’s main beach, Reflections Red Rock offers visitors a peaceful escape where relaxing is the name of the game, yet there are so many things to do in Red Rock.

The history and significance of Red Rock

The 20-metre high20-metre-high red rock formation that the township is named after, is in Yuraygir National Park, which stretches along the coast from Angourie in the north, to Red Rock down south.

Red Rock is believed to be more than 300 million years old and being made of jasper (a type of red quartz), it is an incredibly bright colour.

The area is the traditional country of the Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr people, and Red Rock is considered a sacred place for reflection.

In 1841, mounted police entered a campsite at Blackadder's Creek, and horrifically massacred many First Nations people. Thus, today, many Gumbaynggirr Elders refer to Red Rock as ‘Blood Rock’ in remembrance of the lives lost.

Visit the Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre to find out more about the region’s history, which is also home to an art gallery and a lovely bush tucker café.

Red Rock outdoor activities

It’s a rare thing these days to find an uncrowded, beautiful stretch of beach that’s perfect for swimming, fishing and walking. Add the bright red rock formations, and Red Rock is a photographer’s dream location, especially at sunrise or sunset.

The area is also a hotspot for surfers, and one of the best things about surfing here is that most days, you’ll have the beaches to yourself.

Red Rock Beaches

Corindi Beach

Reflections Red Rock is right on Corindi Beach, which is known by surfers as ‘Whailies’. It’s one of the most popular places to catch a wave.

Here you’ll find Corindi Beach Reserve, which stretches from Corindi Beach in the south, along the Corindi Beach and Red Rock Beach to Pipeclay Lake and a wetland forest.

The reserve has easy bushwalking trails, and a few lovely picnic spots on Pipeclay Lake and Corindi Beach Headland.

Red Rock Reef

Surfers in the know head to Red Rock Reef, which can be accessed by 4WD, via a sandy track off Red Rock Road.

Arrawarra Beach

A 15-minute drive will have you at another fave spot for surfers – Arrawarra Beach, which the locals say is the best spot for ‘logger’ surfing. Aka, traditional longboard surfing.

If you prefer having your feet on the ground, Red Rock is a top spot for whale watching during the migration season that runs from June until October, and dolphins are also a common sight.

Hiking & walking trails

Solitary Islands Coastal Walk

For hikers, there’s the 60-kilometre Solitary Islands Coastal Walk that connects Red Rock to other towns along the Mid-North Coast, finishing up at the lovely town of Sawtell. You can do the walk over four days, or tackle it in sections, and enroute, grab a selfie with one of the many resident kangaroos.

Look at Me Now Headland

For awesome views up and down the coast, head to the Look at Me Now headland, which is is part of Moonee Beach Reserve – best accessed from the quaint town of Emerald Beach.

Twitchers will be stoked with the abundance of birdlife, including little terns and white-bellied eagles often spotted soaring high above.

Fishing

Fishing is also great in Corindi River estuary, where you might snag yourself a whiting, flathead, bream or mullet. If you’re up for it, head to the beach gutters or try your luck from the headland for a bit of rock fishing.

Attractions

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Yarrila Arts and Museum (Coffs Harbour) – This regional gallery and museum showcases local history, art and culture with exhibitions exploring the identity, community and heritage of the Coffs Coast region.

Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre – Located north of Coffs Harbour, this cultural centre features Indigenous art, cultural programs, storytelling and a bush tucker café, offering deeper insight into Gumbaynggirr culture and traditions.

Coffs Coast Attractions

The Big Banana Fun Park (Coffs Harbour) – One of Australia’s most famous holiday stops, this classic attraction includes rides, toboggans, water park features, tours and food experiences themed around the region’s banana plantations.

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary – A wildlife experience where visitors can meet native animals, learn about rehabilitation efforts and see creatures like penguins, sea lions and turtles up close.

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve – A natural landmark connected to the Coffs Harbour Marina, this reserve offers walking trails and great lookout points over the harbour and ocean, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic views.

North Coast Regional Botanic Garden (Coffs Harbour) – A tranquil 20-hectare garden featuring native coastal forests, plant collections and picnic areas — ideal for a relaxed half-day exploring flora and birdlife.

Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout – A scenic lookout perched above Coffs Harbour offering spectacular views over the coastline and hinterland, perfect for photography and nature lovers.

Dining and cafés

There are so many places with great meals, drinks and handmade treats around Red Rock, with Woolgoolga (known as Woopi by locals) being around 10 kilometres away. With a population of more than 6,000, it has plenty of places to explore.

Breakfast, lunch & coffee

The Red Rock Store, located right at Reflections Holiday Park Red Rock, not only covers you for a few basic groceries but also some very tasty takeaway food options.

Or kick the day off right at Bluebottles Brasserie, which is a chilled-out eatery in Woolgoolga by the beach, with breakfast and lunch, seven days a week. Its coffee is roasted in the nearby town of Maclean, and there’s always a fully stocked dessert cabinet.

The adjoining retail store sells awesome takeaway dinners that you can enjoy back at camp, such as lasagnes and cheesy garlic bread. You can create your own custom-filled hamper or picnic basket and enjoy it on the beach or headland.

Dinner options

If craft beer is your thing, check out Mogul Beer, where the friendly owner Dave and his team serve up a range of fantastic beers, along with tasty meals from a Hawaiian food truck – A Taste of Aloha. Think delicious prawn tacos, pulled pork burgers and juicy steak wraps.

There’s more awesome beer, wood-fired pizza, and a great dog-friendly beer garden over at Woolgoolga Brewing Co. (aka Woopi Brewing Co.), where there’s also regular live music on the sprawling lawn.

For something a little stronger, check out Critters Distillery (also in Woolgoolga), which has a range of spirits including vodka, gin, a white cane rum, coffee liqueur and limoncello.

For sweet tooths, Blue Cow Gelato whips up its own gelato by hand daily, with the use of a specialist Italian machine. No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives are used, and they also create super delicious gelato cakes.

For fresh produce galore, pop on down to Coffs Coast Growers Market, which is held in Coffs Harbour City Square every Thursday from 8am to 2pm.

Seasonal activities & events

Winter

In the cooler months, visitors can get into activities such as hiking the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk and exploring Red Rock Headland.

During the whale migration season from June until October, enjoy picnics on the many beaches or by the river while enjoying a show by Mother Nature – whales cavorting and dolphins frolicking in the ocean.

For a fun festival in Woolgoolga, in September Curryfest celebrates Punjabi cuisine, dancing and culture.

Summer

A summer or spring holiday at Red Rock beach means days filled with swimming, snorkelling, surfing and kayaking in the estuary.
If you’re into kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, Red Rock is a great spot to get out on the water without the hustle. The Corindi Estuary is calm, clear, and easy to explore—even if you’re just starting out. You can launch near the boat ramp and cruise past mangroves, sandbanks, and plenty of birdlife. It’s peaceful, pretty, and a great way to spend a few hours just soaking up the natural beauty of the area.