Stunning views along the long coast of Hat Head National Park can be had here at NSW's most elevated lighthouse (1891) at the northern end of the park. It's also a great spot to look for whales during migration season from May to September. It's a short but fairly steep climb up.
Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
3.29 MILES
Occupying Trial Bay's eastern headland, this sandstone prison was built between 1877 and 1886 to house convicts brought in to build a breakwater. When…
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12.06 MILES
The highlight of this lush, rainforest-filled park is the dramatic coastal view from the lookout on the summit of Mt Yarriabini, which is accessible via a…
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20.47 MILES
This sleek building commemorates Australian icon and country-music legend Slim Dusty, who was born in Kempsey. Inside you'll discover the man's music, his…
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19.48 MILES
For decades residents and holidaymakers have decorated the rocks of Nambucca's breakwater with vivacious multicoloured artwork, and with notes to lovers,…
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19.55 MILES
Of the area's numerous viewpoints, Captain Cook Lookout, set on a high bluff, is the best to ponder the array of beaches, and to look for whales during…
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20.14 MILES
Nambucca Heads' only patrolled beach has life guards on duty during the summer holidays, and on weekends from October to April. Dolphins can sometimes be…
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19.57 MILES
To reach the sheltered tide pools of pretty Shelly Beach, head down the road from Captain Cook Lookout.
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19.13 MILES
Housed in the unique Glenn Murcutt Building, this museum honours the memory of the sheep shearers, lumber whackers, cattle pokers and others who made the…
Nearby attractions
3.29 MILES
Occupying Trial Bay's eastern headland, this sandstone prison was built between 1877 and 1886 to house convicts brought in to build a breakwater. When…
12.06 MILES
The highlight of this lush, rainforest-filled park is the dramatic coastal view from the lookout on the summit of Mt Yarriabini, which is accessible via a…
19.13 MILES
Housed in the unique Glenn Murcutt Building, this museum honours the memory of the sheep shearers, lumber whackers, cattle pokers and others who made the…
4. DNAAG Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery
19.13 MILES
In the Kempsey visitor centre building, this small gallery specialises in Aboriginal art from established and emerging local artists.
19.48 MILES
For decades residents and holidaymakers have decorated the rocks of Nambucca's breakwater with vivacious multicoloured artwork, and with notes to lovers,…
19.55 MILES
Of the area's numerous viewpoints, Captain Cook Lookout, set on a high bluff, is the best to ponder the array of beaches, and to look for whales during…
19.57 MILES
To reach the sheltered tide pools of pretty Shelly Beach, head down the road from Captain Cook Lookout.
19.93 MILES
The secluded northern extension of Shelly Beach is wide and sandy, and good for surfing.