The Luxury Destination That Should Be on Your Must-Visit List

We’ve partnered with The Tweed Tourism Co. to share the unexpected luxury, decadent dining and immersive natural experiences on offer in The Tweed.

When the urge strikes to escape the city, there’s one region that should be on any discerning traveller’s list. 

Just a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Melbourne (and even less from Sydney) lies a magical place that combines the charm and friendliness of a small town with metropolitan-like style and luxury. 

Made up of 37km of coastline and stretching to riverside towns, abundant valleys and gorgeous hinterland areas, The Tweed is a must for those looking for a pocket of indulgence that both delights and surprises - and those wanting to visit an undiscovered gem.

Whether it’s the Tweed Coast, Tweed Valley or Tweed River, we’re putting a spotlight on the very best experiences, stays and farm-to-plate dining destinations to put on your must-visit list.

Blue Water Motel

Expect a cool and coastal vibe at the newly-renovated Blue Water Motel, conveniently located in the hub of The Tweed just steps from Kingscliff Beach.

The 80s space has been reimagined by designer Jason Grant, who has combined cheeky nods to the area’s summer holiday past with all the mod-cons one would expect from a luxury escape. Refresh in style in one of the 17 rooms with Malin + Goetz toiletries and one of the comfiest beds you’ll ever sleep in (trust us), or relax poolside with a pre-mixed cocktail - conveniently sold at the motel’s reception -  in hand. 

For larger groups, there’s a four-bedroom Beach House available for rent just next door.

129 Kingscliff Street, Kingscliff

Waterfall Lodge

If private, lush and cosy is more your style, luxury eco-stay Waterfall Lodge is a must-book. Designed for couples to relax in complete comfort and privacy, the stay is nestled within the dense and thriving Carool Valley and - as the name suggests - overlooks a small, private waterfall. 

Accessed by a private road, it’s true seclusion in every sense of the word. Surrounded by rainforest, there’s a king-sized bed, oversized bath and shower, full kitchen and fireplace, so the choice of how - and where - you relax is up to you.

84 McDonalds Road, Carool

Tweed River House

If there was ever any doubt that restaurants in regional areas can't mix with the big foodie guns of the city, look no further than Tweed River House. 

This hatted restaurant, situated within a magnificently restored grand river house, shows off the very best of the region: from the panoramic views of the Tweed River and Wollumbin Mount Warning to the curated menu that shows off the very best seasonal produce from the nearby fertile farmlands, riverways and ocean, this is relaxed fine dining that doesn't disappoint. 

Whether choosing from the à la carte menu or indulging in the set tasting menus (we recommend the five-course selection - with matching wines, of course), every dish is a delight.

131 River Street, South Murwillumbah 

George's Deli

A newcomer to Kingscliff's coastal food scene, George's Deli has all the makings of a viral culinary hit.

Merging the classic flavours of New York delis with Filipino-inspired innovations, the family-owned establishment serves up delectable sandwiches, toasties and unique donuts.

Everything is crafted in-house, with the Chicken Joe and Ube Donut - made from the traditional Filipino purple yam - sure to have you snapping shots for the 'gram and coming back for more.

Shop 3/106 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

Potager

An unassuming kitchen garden it may be, but Potager happens to hold the title of the most awarded dining destination in the Northern Rivers - and it's not hard to see why. 

Set on a small 10-acre farm, the mission of the much-loved spot is simple: to provide excellent service and great food in a relaxed environment that showcases the very best of the spectacular region. 

Whether you're a local stopping in for a regular date night, or a fresh face, a meal at Potager feels more akin to a lively dinner party with friends and family than a formal fine dining affair. Warm, welcoming and truly mouth-watering, you're in for a meal you won't soon forget.

502 Carool Road, Carool

Cubby Bakehouse

Craving a premium caffeine hit? A hit with locals and tourists alike, all the delectable, crumbly and custard-filled goodies at Cubby Bakehouse are made on-site. The fresh strawberry tarts, flakey almond croissants, jam-topped cream-bun eclairs (and more!) go down a treat with a hot coffee.

If savoury is more your style, Cubby serves up modern twists on brunch faves, like bacon and egg banh mi and green tea noodle salad with karaage chicken, alongside classics like ham and cheese croissants and avo on Cubby's famed, freshly-baked sourdough.

162 Chinderah Bay Drive, Chinderah

Paper Daisy

Located in the famed Halcyon House in Cabaraita Beach, Paper Daisy serves up sophisticated simplicity in a signature laidback style. The hatted restaurant is led by Andrew Milford, whose menu items are beautiful, thoughtful and satisfying.

Expect modern Australian cuisine in a relaxed, coastal setting, with the dining room overlooking the hotel's stunning pool. Our tip? Be sure to order one of the signature cocktails to truly indulge.

21 Cyrpress Crescent, Cabarita Beach

Pasta'bah

One of life's greatest pleasures is good pasta done well - and Pasta'bah delivers on its promise of bringing a whole new pasta experience to The Tweed. The gourmet deli in the heart of Murwillumbah is the stuff of foodie dreams, with do-it-yourself dinner options (think handmade sauce and pasta) available for those who want a home-cooked meal without the work. 

9 Commercial Road, Murwillumbah

Watch the Sunrise at Booningbah (Fingal Head)

They say the early bird gets the worm, but the early Tweed Coast riser gets the chance to see dolphins frolicking in the water off Booningbah (Fingal Head).

A place of unique natural beauty, the rock pillars - made when flowing hot lava met the cool sea millions of years ago - are a must-see. Take a short stroll around the charming lighthouse (built in 1872 to remind seafarers to steer clear of the nearby Cook Island), breathe in the salty sea air and watch the waves crash against the rocks for a truly unforgettable and invigorating morning.

Booningbah (Fingal Head), New South Wales

Try Pedals and Picnics on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

A shared recreation and nature trail, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, when finished, will traverse 132 kilometres of countryside between Murwillumbah and Casino. 

The 24-kilometre Tweed section, which connects Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, is now open and is the perfect way to experience the stunning countryside.

Elevate the experience further with a picnic from Pedals and Picnics. Rent an Ebike, and they'll pack a picnic box or cart complete with a grazing box and gorgeously aesthetic picnic gear for you to set up and enjoy at your chosen destination.

All that's left for you to do is gather your adventure buddies, immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings and indulge in the gourmet eats.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail starts from 284 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah

Embrace the Country Life at Hosanna Farmstay

Conveniently located along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Hosanna Farmstay is the perfect spot to set up shop and take your picnic break. 

A Day Visit pass will give you access to the facilities and grounds. There are plenty of picnic tables and shady spots under trees, as well as animals like bunnies, ducks, goats, pigs and alpacas to keep you company. 

4 Tunnel Road, Stokers Siding

Try Something New at Kat Harvey Cheese

The producers, growers and purveyors of The Tweed know their craft, and Kat Harvey Cheese is evidence of that. 

Offering a curated selection of more than 50 cheeses, this is a must-stop shop in Murwillumbah for cheese connoisseurs and newcomers alike.

Kat's passion for cheese is infectious, and you'll be hard-pressed to walk away without a new favourite. Be sure to order one of her signature toasties (which people travel both near and far for), made with local produce, epic condiments and some of the finest cheeses in her collection. 

Wollumbin Street M|Arts, Murwillumbah

Learn About The Tweed's Unique History at the Tweed Regional Museum 

An extraordinary cultural and community experience, the Tweed Regional Museum mixes heritage architecture with contemporary interpretations to present visitors with a comprehensive - and engaging - history of The Tweed.

A permanent and interactive exhibition, Land, Life, Culture shares the unique cultural, geological and biological stories that have shaped the area. Featuring specimens, graphics and cultural stories from Traditional Owners, visitors can experience how the region's landscape and community has evolved over more than 20 million years.

2 Queensland Road, Murwillumbah

Take a Tour of Husk Distillery

The home of Insta-famous Ink Gin, Husk Farm Distillery is Australia's only single-estate paddock-to-bottle rum distillery - and well worth a visit. 

First inspired by the vibrant rum culture of the Caribbean, distiller Paul Messenger and his family began with a vision to create a premium run with unique Australian flavours. Eight years on, and Husk Farm Distillery is now home to a cellar door, cafe, bar and barrel house.

A distillery tour includes a welcome drink and complimentary tastings of spirits, where you're sure to find a new favourite tipple, as well as a behind-the-scenes tour where you can witness the unique sustainable, "full circle" distilling practises first-hand.

1152 Dulguigan Road, North Tumbulgum 

Spy a Monet at the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre

With seven exhibition spaces and a space celebrating the legacy of its namesake, there's plenty to see at the award-winning Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre.

Until October 2025, one of Claude Monet's works will be on display, alongside four other pieces on loan from the National Gallery of Australia's collection. There's also a rotating roster of contemporary, multidisciplinary and classical exhibitions so no two visits are the same. 

Don't miss the stunning recreation of areas of Margaret Olley's famous home studio, featuring original architectural elements like windows and doors and filled with over 20,000 items the prolific artist collected over many years  - most serving as subject matter for her paintings.

2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah

Image: Claude Monet Meules, milieu du jour [Haystacks, midday] 1890, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, purchased 1979
These works of art are on long-term loan from the National Gallery of Australia with support from the Australian Government as part of Sharing the National Collection.

Relax with Mindfulness in the Mangroves

If getting out of town also means getting out of your own head, Tim Jack Adams of Watersports Guru has just the thing: Mindfulness in the Mangroves. 

With a passion for wellness and improving the health and happiness of others, Tim designed the activity to give visitors the time and space to "just be" in a beautiful,  natural setting. 

Lie on a paddle board, eyes shut, amongst the mangroves and enter a deep state of relaxation as you're guided through a meditation with the sounds of the local wildlife as your soundtrack.

Sutherland Street, Kingscliff

Take a Sunset Stroll on Norries Headland

Overlooking the iconic Cabarita Beach, a quick stroll through a coastal mangrove forest to Norries Headland is the perfect pre-cocktail treat. 

Watch local surfers catch the final waves of the day and take in the 180-degree vistas of sandy beaches and deep blue ocean as the sun sets.

Tweed Coast Road, Cabarita Beach

Have a Self-Care Moment at The Spa at Salt

Combining self-care with choose-your-own-adventure, The Spa at Salt is the perfect place to escape the everyday and revitalise and refresh the body, mind and spirit. 

The spa amenities are based on nature's key elements of Air, Water, Fire, Light and Earth, with Infrared Saunras, a Hydrotherapy Spa, a PEMF Meditation room, an Ice Bath and more available to use at your own leisure.

2 Bells Boulevard, Kingsliff

From the sparkling seaside to the stunning countryside and vibrant hinterland, a trip to The Tweed is sure to be an unmissable experience. Head here to learn more and start planning your stay.