Backyard Tourist: Visit to Broken Head in northern NSW uncovers secret coves

Conveniently sandwiched between two popular beaches in northern NSW, this beautiful spot is often overlooked for some of the other popular stretches nearby. But here’s why you should visit anyway.

LOCATED between Byron Bay and Lennox Head, this beautiful spot is often overlooked for some of the other popular beaches nearby.

Broken Head has an appeal all of its own, offering a spectacular walking track, set against the backdrop of the rainforest that is Broken Head Nature Reserve.

You can also swim and surf here, with far fewer crowds to contend with.

Broken Head, Byron Shire. Picture: Istock

To make the most of this tranquil place, set aside at least one full day so you can enjoy the scenic drive down from the city.

Start your day with a surf, if you’ve come early enough, or breakfast by the beach.

There is a lovely little picnic area close by, complete with tables and barbecue facilities. The Three Sisters Walking track allows you to go for a little hike.

Allow about 45 minutes if you are into photography as there are plenty of scenes worth capturing.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE BULLETIN FOR JUST $5 A MONTH FOR THE FIRST THREE MONTHS

Broken Head had been voted one of Australia's 101 Best Beaches. Picture: Supplied

It also quietly offers secluded beaches and coves, as well as ample opportunities to whale watch during the right season.

And if you’re a fan of birdlife, there’s plenty here to spot as well.

The hidden beaches are wonderful places to just sit on the sand and soak up the serenity.

Once you’ve finished at Broken Head, you can make your way back through Byron Bay and stop there for something to eat, or to do a little bit of shopping.

DISCOVER

Enjoy a spot of nude bathing at Tyagarah. PicAdamHead

If you’re a little bolder and braver than your mates, or simply comfortable about flaunting it, try spending some time at clothes-optional beach, Tyagarah.

Yep, here’s where you can go skinny dipping, should you so wish.

This stretch of beach is situated just before Byron Bay, so it’s a good spot to have a quick swim or sun bake before you continue down south on your adventure.

The beach is 800m so there’s ample space for a bit of, term privacy, and starts 200m south of Grays Lane.

Unfortunately, its reputation as a great little beach has recently been tarnished by offenders, so always ensure you take a friend with you and visit during daylight hours.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Pottsville. Picture Mike Batterham

If you’re keen for an even more scenic trip than simply getting down to Broken Head ASAP, take the more touristic route — Tweed Coast Road.

At Chinderah, hop off the M1 to take the Tweed Coast Road exit and follow it down through Cudgen and Casuarina.

The route will also take you through Cabarita Beach, which offers lovely little eateries for a bite to eat, while Hastings Point and Pottsville further south offer gorgeous views of cliffs and oceans, as well as shallow bays.

Tweed Coast Road ends at Wooyung, but this suburb is the place to be if you have pet dogs. Their nature reserve has hundreds of metres of untouched beaches that you can explore alongside your faithful pooch.

EAT AND DRINK

Byron Beach Hotel. Pics Tim Marsden

On your way back up from Broken Head, ensure you stop over at Byron Bay for a dinner delight.

This little hippie hub doesn’t have any of the regular old takeaway chains, so it’s a fantastic spot to try out some more independent restaurants.

For a beer and some hearty fare, try Beach Hotel Byron Bay while, Foxy Luu’s is this adorable Asian street and eats bar with dozens of oriental umbrellas hanging from the ceiling.

It offers plenty of vegetarian or vegan options and serves staples such as pork dumplings, guan bao and even soups.

There’s so many great options for dinner here, you’re certain to find something you love.