Things To Do
in Tweed Heads

Tweed Heads is a coastal town located in New South Wales, Australia, right on the border with Queensland. Known for its stunning beaches, beautiful rivers, and laid-back atmosphere, it attracts both tourists and locals looking for relaxation and adventure. The town serves as a gateway to the Gold Coast and is famous for its vibrant surf culture and outdoor lifestyle.

With a rich local history and a variety of attractions, Tweed Heads is a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day at the iconic Coolangatta Beach, where you can enjoy a sunrise walk along the shore and have breakfast at a beachfront café.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Snapper Rocks, famous for its surf breaks, or relax at Rainbow Bay, which is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

evening
:

Dine at one of the local seafood restaurants before heading to the Tweed River for a sunset cruise, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Tweed Regional Gallery to appreciate local art and enjoy the panoramic views of the Tweed Valley.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic drive to the nearby Mount Warning National Park for a hike to the summit, where you can experience breathtaking views.

evening
:

Explore the vibrant dining scene at the local markets or enjoy live music at a bar in Tweed Heads.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20-30
Coffee$4-5
🍺Beer$8-10
🚌Public transport ticket$3-5
🏨Hotel per night$100-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beaches
  • Diverse outdoor activities available
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Can be crowded during peak holidays
  • Limited public transport options
  • Higher costs during tourist season

Places to Visit in Tweed Heads

Visit one of these nice places.

Snapper Rocks

Famous for its surf breaks, this spot offers stunning coastal views and is a great place to capture surfers in action.

Tweed River

The scenic river is lined with lush greenery and provides beautiful reflections, ideal for sunset photography.

Coolangatta Beach

Known for its golden sands and clear waters, this beach is perfect for capturing the essence of coastal life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tweed Heads

Tweed Heads offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its coastal location, with an abundance of fresh seafood and diverse cuisines.

Tweed Heads Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish Tacos

Freshly caught fish wrapped in soft tortillas with salsa and avocado, a must-try local specialty.

Must-Try!

Meat Pies

A classic Australian snack, these savory pies filled with meat and gravy are popular throughout the area.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tweed Heads Markets

Held on weekends, this market features local produce, crafts, and street food options, perfect for a casual lunch.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Tweed Heads is classified as subtropical, characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures average between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is more common during the summer months, with occasional storms, whereas winters are drier and cooler.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Casual Dress

Australians tend to dress casually, especially in beach towns; beachwear is acceptable in many places.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for social gatherings and restaurant reservations.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, including wildlife and local flora.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tweed Heads is generally a safe destination, but visitors should stay vigilant and take standard precautions. It's advisable to avoid isolated areas at night and to keep personal belongings secure. Always be cautious while swimming in the ocean, as conditions can change quickly.

Tipping in Tweed Heads

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but it is appreciated for excellent service. A tip of 10-15% is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Contactless payments are popular, and ATMs are easily accessible.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for beach activities. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and lower humidity make it an ideal time for outdoor adventures and exploring the region.

Winter

While temperatures cool down, the weather remains pleasant, attracting fewer tourists and offering a quieter experience.

Spring

With blooming flowers and warming temperatures, spring is a beautiful time to visit, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Nightlife Guide

Tweed Heads at Night

Tweed Heads offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of beachside bars, pubs, and live music venues. The area is known for its friendly atmosphere, making it easy to socialize and meet locals. Many bars feature live music, especially on weekends, and there's a variety of options for every taste, from laid-back beachfront venues to lively dance clubs.

Hiking in Tweed Heads

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Warning Summit Trail

A challenging hike that leads to the summit of Mount Warning, offering spectacular views of the surrounding region.

Tallebudgera Creek Conservation Park

This park features several walking trails through beautiful rainforest and along the creek, perfect for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Tweed Heads by plane.

Gold Coast Airport (OOL)

Located approximately 5 km from Tweed Heads, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travelers visiting the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tweed Heads is quite walkable, especially around the beachfront areas and the town center, where many attractions, shops, and dining options are within easy reach. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it comfortable for pedestrians. However, some attractions may require a short drive or public transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

A mix of families, retirees, and young professionals who enjoy the coastal lifestyle and community atmosphere.

Tourists

Visitors from Australia and abroad, especially during the summer months, drawn to the beaches and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

With its excellent surf breaks, surfing is a major sport in Tweed Heads, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Rugby League

Rugby League is popular in the area, with local clubs and events drawing significant community support and participation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tweed Heads is generally manageable, but it can become congested during peak holiday periods. Public transportation options include buses that connect Tweed Heads to nearby areas, but services may be limited. Cycling is also a popular option due to the flat terrain and scenic routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tweed Heads.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes; be sure to check menus or ask staff for recommendations.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are also available at various eateries; notify your server of any dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Tweed Heads is quite good, with several medical facilities available, including general practitioners and pharmacies. The Tweed Heads Hospital provides emergency and specialist care. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that includes coverage for medical expenses.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide