Things to Do in Scotts Head

Discover Scotts Head: Your ultimate things to do guide

A Scotts Head camping adventure awaits in this beautiful beachfront oasis, only an hour’s drive from Coffs Harbour, at the Southern end of Nambucca Shire.

Outdoor activities

Checking out the local surf, beaches & waterside spots

• Forster Beach:
  The first stop for anyone staying in this beautiful spot should be Forster Beach. With its white sandy beach and rocky red headlands, shimmering turquoise waters, and gently crashing waves, it’s the ideal place for long beach walks, surfing, snorkelling, swimming or simply soaking up the sun and having a picnic. Don't miss sunset drinks on this beach.

• Grassy Head
  A short drive north is Grassy Head, on the Macleay Valley Coast – a fantastic family location with white sandy beaches and dense bushland. Gentle waves make the beach perfect for a relaxing swim, and there are plenty of great spots for fishing. The area is known for its wildlife, and eagle-eyed visitors may spot native animals such as kangaroos, koalas and goannas.

National Parks

Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park is another must-do on a Scotts Head camping adventure. It has several fascinating environments to explore, including rainforests, shrublands and estuarine mangroves.

Water activities abound here, with canoeing or kayaking along Warrell Creek being a popular pastime. There are three access points to the creek, with picnic areas and boat ramps for easy entry to the water.

Lookouts, trails & picnic spots

For breathtaking views over the coastline and hinterland, a 20-minute drive will take you to Yarrahapinni Lookout, which has stunning views of Macleay River Estuary and Trial Bay. The lookout is at the top of the 498-metre-high Mount Yarrahapinni, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers and photographers, so make sure to bring your camera.

To reach the lookout, enjoy the scenic drive through Yarriabini National Park, which is home to lush rainforests, burbling creeks and more amazing views of the coastline.

The driving route takes you along Way Way Creek Road to The Pines picnic area, where you can enjoy a peaceful meal whipped up on the free BBQs, surrounded by tall hoop pines and a magical rainforest.

It also has some great hidden gem mountain biking trails.

The Goanna Trail

The trail starts near Scotts Head Back Beach, winding its way through coastal bushland with gentle climbs, shady sections and beautiful ocean glimpses along the way. It’s a great option for a relaxed walk, offering a peaceful escape into nature just moments from town.

Local attractions

Nature Highlights

• Little Beach Rock Pools – Perfect for families and little ones, the rock pools
• Scotts Head Lookout & Scotts Head Main Lookout – Panoramic views over the coastline and ocean, ideal for sunrise/sunset photos and spotting whales in season.
• Rotary Lookout – Another scenic vantage point in the region offering sweeping views over beaches and the hinterland.
• Coastal Walks – Explore tracks along the headland with stunning ocean views, coastal plants and birdlife right on your doorstep.

Nearby spots worth a quick drive

• Hat Head National Park – Lush bushland, wildlife and dramatic coastlines with walking trails and picnic spots.
• South West Rocks & Smoky Cape Lighthouse – A short trip north brings history and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Rainy Day Ideas (Indoor / Weather-Proof)

• Local cafés & bakeries – Spend rainy mornings finding your favourite latte and cake while watching life go by at Scotts Head or Nambucca Heads.
• Explore Nambucca Heads – Only 15 minutes away, this bigger town has local shops, galleries and museums like the Headland Historical Museum and a small cinema to keep you entertained.
• Indoor sports/games at local pubs and clubs – Many local clubs offer indoor entertainment like pool tables, trivia nights, and live music, which are great group activities when the weather’s wet.
• Craft & Souvenir Shops – Browse local art, skincare, beachwear and souvenirs in Scotts Head and neighbouring villages.

Dining and nightlife to enjoy on a Scotts Head camping trip

Lunch & dinner spots

Along with many amazing outdoor things to do in Scotts Head, food-loving campers will also find plenty of delicious dining options.

If you’re after a classic Aussie pub feed, head to Club Scotts, which is only 50 metres from Reflections. Chef Jordan’s menu is a contemporary take on classic bistro meals, using the best fresh ingredients from local growers.

Don't miss @J Café, the local takeaway with the best Fish & Chips located at Short Street across from the park.

Cafés

Driftwood Wholefood Cafe (also known locally as Scotts Hub) is a charmingly rustic family-run eatery with views across the water. The breakfast menu is fresh and healthy, while the lunch dishes have an Asian twist.

The cafe uses top local produce to design its vegan-friendly menu, and in summer it's open late for nutritious meals paired with organic wines and live music. There’s a summer buffet at 5pm, and one of the café’s many sustainable initiatives is its mug library, which saves mugs from landfill and removes the need for takeaway cups.

Grassy Head is home to much-loved Hot Myrtle Kitchen – a charming restaurant with a menu featuring locally foraged native ingredients, seafood and slow-cooked meats.

Seasonal events and activities in and around Scotts Head

South West Rocks is 16 kilometres from Scotts Head, and for food and music lovers, The South West Rocks Summer Fair by Aussie Food Trucks is a bonanza of delicious street food, live music and good vibes in Brighton Park, Kempsey.

For those into fitness, South West Rocks hosts to an annual summer fair, and or check out the Trial Bay Triathlon in February, in the waters below the historic Trial Bay Gaol.

In the warmer months, why not learn to surf with a pro? Trent Munro operates his surf school in Scotts Head, with lessons for all ages and experiences. Trent also offers guided surf adventures to remote beaches and point breaks for a whole day of fun. Boards and paddleboards can be hired for the day, to ensure you make the most of your time in Scotts Head.

Local markets

On the second and fourth Sunday of each month, Scotts Head Farmers Market welcomes local artisans and producers to sell their goods in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy live music while checking out the handcrafted wares and meeting the chatty locals.

Foodies will love the selections of cool climate wines, organic fruit, fresh pastries, and lots of other delicious offerings.