Backyard Tourist: Pat Morton Lookout at Lennox Head

One of the best bits of living along the coastline are the amazing views afforded to us along beach. But all too often it’s crowded with people. Here’s a lookout you’ll love — and you’ll feel like the only one there.

Mochi enjoying the view. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

ONE of my favourite bits about exploring the coastline is the spectacular views the east coast offers.

But truthfully, there are few lookouts today where you can simply wind down in front of sweeping ocean views without the bustle of tourists.

Thankfully, we have Pat Morton Lookout.

Situated at Lennox Head, a 90-minute drive south of the Gold Coast, the lookout is still slightly untamed and picturesquely unspoilt.

Mochi the greyhound enjoying a walk at Pat Morton Lookout at Lennox Head, northern NSW. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

If there was ever a romantic spot with a 180-degree view offering up breaching whales, swooping gulls and turquoise waves crashing against steep cliffs, this is exactly it.

Seriously, pack a little picnic into the car and get ready to relax.

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It’s a scenic drive along the northern NSW coastline and there are plenty of cute stopping points if sitting still isn’t your strong suit.

Expect to see one of these guys. Picture: @andysichter

At the lookout, soak in the first view from the car park. You’ll find most people congregate here, but we’re going to follow the little trail to the top of the headland.

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Up there you can spot lizards and brush turkeys and you’ll eventually come out at a rather large grassy expanse.

Head right and you’ll find yourself in a more rugged but still very accessible area.

There’s a bit of long grass but you can actually sit close to the edge of the cliff with no fences to hinder the views.

It can get a bit windy so ensure you’ve got a light jacket to keep you warm, but other than that, soak in those amazing views.

Oh, and grab a photo or two while you’re there. You’ll definitely want to remember this one.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Long exposure of water at Hastings Point. Picture: Ryan Fowler Photography

WHILE we’re in the business of checking out the best views, a stop off at Hastings Point is a must.

Simply turn off the Tweed Coast Road to Yulgari Drive and park at the top of the headland. Soak in those views.

But personally, I love the little park and beach there.

The Hastings Point foreshore looks like a little lagoon as Cudgera Creek flows into the ocean.

It’s a great spot to simply unwind in the stream, thanks to its tranquil waters.

DISCOVER

Pottsville.

I LOVE Pottsville. This cute little town on the way to Lennox Head is the nicest place to drive through and stop off at Potts Point.

The whole village was originally named Potts Point after Bill Potts, who owned the first house there around 1930, but the name was changed to avoid confusion with the up-market Sydney suburb of the same name.

To get to Potts Point at the mouth of Mooball Creek, you need to follow a little street off Tweed Coast Road that runs alongside the creek.

There are ample parking spots along the lane and I expect it’s a good place to dip your toes in the water. Or fish, if that’s what you’re into.

It also has a little laneway leading on to the white sands of the neighbouring beach, with people few and far between.

The town itself also has all the necessities you might need, with a supermarket and accommodation.

EAT AND DRINK

Just yum Picture Glenn Hampson

LOCAL and organic — these are what The Bread Social, at Tweed Heads, is all about.

You’ll find nearly every bread type under the sun at this spot, which recently expanded.

Croissants, extra large custard tarts, pies, sourdough, tahini brownies, filled doughnuts and buttery pastries are all in a day’s work for the bakers.

In the morning they offer banana bread with whipped vanilla butter, a Roman pizza and leg ham and manchego cheese croissants.

For lunch, expect ciabattas with slow braised lamb shoulder, flat bread and a Ploughman’s Butty with leg ham, pickle and manchego.

Open 7am to 4pm each day.