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Secret Coves & Pristine Coastlines: This Is The Winter Escape You’ve Been Dreaming Of
Let the coast set the pace.
We’ve partnered with Macleay Valley Coast to show you why it’s the ultimate destination for the perfect winter escape.
Craving a crisp, seaside escape this winter? Along the Macleay Valley Coast, rugged shorelines and rolling surf meet a slower pace of life. The air is fresher, the skies feel wider, and the salty breeze lingers on your skin as the rhythm of the waves lulls you into a peaceful tranquillity.
From hidden coves and heritage towns to dramatic hinterland views and nature walks worthy of a film set, this coastal haven is brimming with character—and far too special to keep secret. Perfectly positioned between Sydney and Brisbane, this underrated region is at the top of our must-visit list this winter.
Whether it’s an idyllic romantic escape, a nature-filled family adventure, or just some well-deserved alone time spent by the water, it’s easy to fall in love with this region’s timeless, unhurried allure. So, pack your bags and let Macleay Valley Coast show you what winter escape dreams are made of.
The Ultimate Winter Escape to Macleay Valley Coast
Immerse Yourself In Local Favourites
The key to our hearts—and the perfect winter weekend escape—always starts with good coffee. Begin your morning with the earthy scent of fresh grounds under the wisteria-draped eaves at Steam and Cedar, a specialty coffee roastery tucked within the storybook gardens of The Gladstone Hub.
Not only is it a place where the locals gather, but this unassuming cafe also serves up the town’s freshest small-batch brews and a welcoming, laid-back vibe that’s hard to resist. Make sure you try the famous Drogher Toastie, too—named after the historic Drogher Boats that hauled cedar logs down the Macleay River many years ago—it’s an elevated classic that’ll have you salivating with every bite.
Discover Hidden Finds to Taste, Touch & Treasure
With the morning’s gentle calm still lingering in the air, it’s worth staying a little longer to explore the rest of The Hub. Set in the heart of the historic Gladstone Village, the leafy riverside strip is lined with artisan-made wares, including hand-thrown ceramics, vintage-inspired linen, freshly baked sourdough and immersive local art. It’s the perfect way to ease into your morning.
If you time your visit right, the highly anticipated monthly Gladstone Quality Markets will be just down the road. Sun-ripened tomatoes, plump stone fruits, jars of small-batch chutney and fragrant preserves, and more will be on show for you to indulge in and experience—all you’ll need is a picnic basket for your market buys and a shady spot along the riverbank to soak in all the winter sun.
Whale Watching Along The Shores
Once your coffee fix is sorted, make your way to Crescent Head, where dedicated whale-watching vantage points let you settle in and soak up the views. Winter marks whale season at Macleay Valley Coast, and if you’re lucky, you might just catch a glimpse of these gentle giants cruising by. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars and make sure your eyes are locked on the horizon—sightings are fleeting, but truly unforgettable.
Prefer to wander while you watch? Stroll through Big Hill Rainforest, where pandanus palms and low heath vegetation frame the path and ocean glimpses peek through the trees. It’s a dreamy backdrop for spotting whales on the move. And even if you don’t catch a sighting, the breathtaking ocean views and the serene hum of the bush will stay with you long after you’ve left.
Don’t Miss The Iconic Smoky Cape Lighthouse
With sweeping vistas at every turn, visiting the iconic Smoky Cape Lighthouse is almost mandatory—a coastal rite of passage for those in the know. Built in 1891, the lighthouse sits atop a dramatic headland and is one of the most breathtaking vantage points on the New South Wales coastline. Pack a blanket and a basket of local nibbles, and settle in as the sky fades into a canvas of soft pinks and golden hues. With panoramic views stretching across the ocean, it’s a place that feels like the edge of the world—in the best possible way.
The best part? You don’t have to leave. Check in to the exclusive heritage-listed Lighthouse & Keeper’s Cottage to soak it all in, where three beautifully restored cottages overlook the Smoky Cape Range. With uninterrupted ocean views and a rich sense of history, it’s an intimate escape that feels a world away.
Come morning, wake to the scent of fresh coffee and a hearty home-cooked breakfast, served with a side of local stories. It’s warm, welcoming, and feels more like staying with a friend—one with a front-row seat to one of Australia’s most spectacular coastlines.
Sitchu tip: The lovely hosts are storytellers in their own right, and if you’re lucky, they’ll let you in on a few local secrets—including hidden walking tracks, secret swimming spots, and tales from the lighthouse that you won’t find in any guidebook.
Embark On A Salty Adventure
As the last morsel of your warm, homestyle breakfast disappears, the distant sound of waves calls you back to the coastline. It’s time to zip up the wetsuit and make your way to Crescent Head Point—a dreamy stretch of coastline where the waves roll in slow and steady. Renowned as one of Australia’s longboarding meccas, this spot delivers the kind of sessions that surfers dream about, with waves that replay in your mind long after the swell has faded.
Sitchu tip: If you’re an early riser, a sunrise session at Crescent Head Point is unmatched. Fewer boards are in the lineup, and the golden light spilling across the water is pure magic.
Embrace The Local Food Scene
After working up an appetite, wander over to Sea Sea Hotel’s Kitchen & Bar—just a stone’s throw from the point, and it’s the epitome of modern Australian surf culture. With its sleek 70s-inspired design meets refined minimalism, this laid-back favourite is where the cool crowd come to hang out, serving up seasonal dishes with a local twist and vibes for days. Pair your bite with a batch spirit, botanical tonic, or natural wine, and settle in for that golden-hour glow. Find a spot in the sun or kick back by the pool surrounded by swaying palms and lush greenery and let that post-surf glow stretch into the afternoon.
Sitchu tip: New to surfing or just travelling light? Sea Sea Hotel has you covered with board rentals—so you can roll straight to the break and ride some of Australia’s most iconic waves.
Slow down, breathe in, and let the coast set the pace. With its unreal natural vistas and slow-paced charm, Macleay Valley Coast is winter, well spent. Pack your bags—your coastal reset awaits.
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