Four seasons, one perfect coast
There are few places as captivating as the NSW Coffs Coast – and Scotts Head is no exception. This laid-back coastal village has a climate that locals and tourists alike flock to. Why? Because it makes being outside easy and comfortable, in almost every season.
To plan a holiday you won't soon forget, here's your guide to Scotts Head weather, season by season, so you know what to expect and how to pack.
Best time to visit Scotts Head
The Coffs Coast is blessed with a climate that lends itself to the great outdoors. If that's what you're looking for, then the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring are the best time to visit. But don't discount winter, as it offers great surfing weather and a chance to catch migrating humpback whales. And while summer weather in Scotts Head brings the heat and sunshine, the trade-off is humidity and school holiday crowds.
Summer in Scotts Head (Dec–Feb)
Average high: 29℃ / Average low: 22℃
Seasonal highlights:
- Picnic on Scotts Head Beach
- Tackle the Trial Bay Triathlon
- See the Nambucca Valley Open Streets Festival in Macksville
- Have a low tide dip at Cungee Rock Pool
- Order a chicken parmi at Club Scotts
Say hello to warm, humid Scotts Head weather in summer – with lots of sunshine! December and January are peak times because of school holidays, and February is Scotts Head's wettest month of the year. It shouldn't dampen your spirits, though, as it mostly falls in short, sharp afternoon showers (not long all-day rain). This is the season for hitting the beach, swimming and surfing til your heart's content.
Autumn in Scotts Head (Mar–May)
Average high: 25℃ / Average low: 18℃
Seasonal highlights:
- Visit the beachside markets in South West Rocks
- Enjoy a Yarrakuun Cultural Experience
- Walk up to Yarriabini Lookout for epic views
- Road trip up to Coffs Harbour or Corindi Beach
- Drive to Grassy Head for dinner at Hot Myrtle Kitchen
Autumn weather in Scotts Head brings relief from the summer heat, with temps and rainfall easing off, and overnight lows hitting the teens by the end of May. This is some of the most comfortable weather of the year, especially once the school holiday crowds thin out, leaving you to enjoy peaceful headland walks, whale watching (humpbacks start migrating north in May) and lazy days by the sea.
Winter in Scotts Head (Jun–Aug)
Average high: 18℃ / Average low: 12℃
Seasonal highlights:
- Get a healthy snack at Driftwood Wholefood Café
- Catch a big one with The Rocks Fishing Charters
- Visit Mary Boulton Pioneer Cottage And Museum
- See local art at Matilda Street Gallery in Macksville
If you like your winters short, mild and rarely harsh, this is the time to plan your stay. It's prime time for surfing and getting out to enjoy one of the many walks and hikes on the Coffs Coast. The days aren't overly humid and late winter weather at Scotts Head transitions into an early spring pretty fast. All in all, a beautiful time of year to make the most of both indoor and outdoor adventures.
Spring in Scotts Head (Sep–Nov)
Average high: 25℃ / Average low: 16℃
Seasonal highlights:
- Bush walk in Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park
- Book a Unkya Local Aboriginal Land Council Cultural Eco Tour
- Spend the day at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary
- Go canoeing on a Walking Rivers tour
- Enjoy the view from Scotts Head Lookout
Spring is arguably the best time to be holidaying on the Coffs Coast. The weather starts to warm up, rainfall is low, and wildflowers start to bloom through Gaagal Wanggaan National Park and along the Yarriabini trails. Get out for some bushwalking, cycling, and swimming before the summer crowds return and catch the humpback whales from the headland as they complete their migration through November.
Itinerary Ideas in Scotts Head
Feeling excited, but maybe a little overwhelmed, about how to spend your time in Scotts Head? We've put together a guide of 3-day itinerary ideas to get you started. There are recommendations for where to eat, what beaches to swim at, and other coastal towns to check out while you're here.
Things to do in Scotts Head
Don't let the weather in Scotts Head stop you from ticking things off your to-do list. There's so much to explore – from lush national parks to regional art galleries, and more – so bring your curiosity (and a good pair of walking shoes) to make the most of what's on offer.
Road trip the Mid North Coast from Jimmys Beach to Scotts Head, stopping through Bonny Hills, Port Macquarie and South West Rocks to explore beaches, rainforest and coastal lookouts along the way.
Most people know Coffs Harbour as the coastal paradise on the NSW Coffs Coast. It’s where the forest meets the sea and there are over 30 incredible beaches to explore and enjoy. Coffs Harbour beaches are next level beautiful, boasting that truly iconic laid-back Australian vibe with perfect conditions for swimming, surfing and just doing a whole lot of nothing much.
If you love nature, fresh air, and the sounds of moving water, the Coffs Coast is a no-brainer. This lush corner of NSW is home to some seriously stunning waterfalls, from easy roadside lookouts to some hidden gems worth the hike. So grab your walking shoes, pack a picnic, and hit the road.
Frequently asked questions
Didn’t find what you were looking for? We’re here to help. Get in touch here.
What is the driest month in Scotts Head?
The driest month is September, which has the least amount of rainfall and also the most sun. It's an ideal time to visit if you want reliably clear skies and to dodge a lot of the school holiday crowds that bump accommodation prices up in December and January.
Does Scotts Head NSW have a wet season?
No, not in the tropical sense, but the month of February does see the most rainfall for the year. Summer can be quite wet, but that looks like short afternoon showers, not torrential downpours.
What should I pack for a spring visit to Scotts Head?
Light daywear and swimmers are fine for Scotts Head Weather in Spring when you're at the beach, but you'll need some light layers for nighttime, especially in September and October when the temps can dip to the low teens. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen, too, as UV levels often climb quickly despite the cooler mornings. Check out what's on in spring on the Coffs Coast here
Is autumn a good time for outdoor activities?
Absolutely! The weather at Scotts Head is cooler and drier, perfect for long relaxed walks, dropping a line in Warrell Creek, and visiting a national park or two. The end of the season also brings the humpback whales close to shore as they start their migration north.
Ways to stay in Scotts Head
No matter what the season is or the type of Scotts Head Weather you encounter, Reflections Scotts Head will keep you cosy and comfortable on your next family holiday. Pick from tiny homes, campsites and cabins that feel like a home away from home, and enjoy thoughtful amenities – like BBQs and dog-friendly spaces – that make unwinding a piece of cake.
