You gained’t discover Brunswick Heads topping many ‘typical’ East Coast Australia bucket lists – however after 12 years (and counting) of travelling this nation, I’m simply going to return out and say it: that is my favorite spot in Australia.
Tucked away in Northern NSW and simply quarter-hour north of Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads is a laid-back riverside, beachfront city that looks like a throwback to the Byron of years passed by. Whereas Byron Bay nonetheless has its distinctive magic, its roads and pathways are sometimes crowded with vacationers and upscale institutions. Brunswick Heads, then again, affords the identical barefoot, carefree power that all of us fell in love with in Byron – simply with out the crowds.
Recognized for its calm estuary, the place freshwater from the river meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, time in Brunswick Heads (or Bruns, because the locals name it) is all about having fun with unspoilt nature and a buzzing area people. Days in Brunswick Heads are finest spent swimming within the river, browsing mild seaside breaks, having fun with lengthy brunches (plus wonderful espresso), and absorbing the type of coastal way of life that makes you wish to promote up and transfer right here instantly. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
Whether or not you’re wanting into tenting in Brunswick Heads, searching Brunswick Heads resorts, or planning meals round the perfect Brunswick Heads eating places, this little city delivers… and a few.
Whereas Brunswick Heads, NSW, nonetheless looks like a locals’ secret, it’s quietly gaining consideration – with artists like Fred Once more, Ziggy Alberts and Lime Cordiale popping up for intimate gigs on the iconic Brunswick Lodge over latest years.
So, in case you’re dreaming of sluggish mornings, salty swims and an off-the-beaten-track gem right here in Australia, you’re in the proper place. This Brunswick Heads journey information is full of all the perfect issues to do in Brunswick Heads, together with native tips about the place to swim, surf, eat, train, watch the sundown, and – after all – the place to seek out the perfect brunch and low spots in Brunswick Heads. Let’s tuck in.
Attending to Brunswick Heads
Brunswick Heads is best to achieve by automobile, making it the proper cease in your East Coast highway journey. There may be a bus that runs from Byron Bay to Brunswick Heads (about 35 minutes vs. the 15-minute drive), however, as in most of Australia, except you’re within the metropolis, I wouldn’t advocate buses. You’d be higher off hiring a automobile for the day and gifting your self the liberty and suppleness to get pleasure from it at your individual tempo.
For those who’re flying in from interstate or abroad, the closest airports are Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and Gold Coast Airport, each about 20 minutes away.
Alternatively, by automobile, you’ll be able to drive south alongside the scenic Pacific Freeway from Brisbane (about 2 hours) or north from Sydney (round 8 hours) to reach in Brunswick Heads. Once more, although, I’d extremely advocate having a automobile – there’s a lot to discover close by and within the hinterland, together with beaches, mountaineering trails, waterfalls and nationwide parks like Springbrook NP.
The place to Keep in Brunswick Heads
Although Brunswick Heads is a small city, there are many choices to select from in the case of lodging. For those who’re wandering about locations to remain, listed here are some suggestions I’ve for you:
For those who’re hoping to go tenting in Brunswick Heads, you’ve Reflections Brunswick Heads Vacation Park, Reflections Massy Greene Vacation Park and Ferry Reserve Vacation Park & Caravan Park.
For those who favor a lodge in Brunswick Heads, you’ve Lodge Brunswick (a part of the enduring pub) Brunswick River Inn (proper within the coronary heart) or set again a bit of from the centre of city however nonetheless strolling distance, there’s The Sails Motel and Chalet Motel. These are the perfect resorts in Brunswick Heads.
Truthfully, although, there’s not likely a nasty place to remain on the town; every little thing is inside strolling distance, which is what makes it so particular right here.
When is the perfect time to go to Brunswick Heads?
I’d say the perfect instances to go to the Northern Rivers and Brunswick Heads are spring (September–November) and autumn (March–Could).
Throughout these months, you’ll discover that the climate is delicate and also you’ll additionally keep away from the crowds. Summer season (December–February) can be implausible, it’s simply the height time. There’s loads of nature to share, however it may possibly get busy, and parking is restricted, which could be irritating. Winter (June–August) affords a peaceable time to go to, with alternatives to identify Whales migrating and benefit from the cooler temperatures in Brunswick Heads, NSW.
Australia Journey Assets for you:
This publish has been a very long time coming. I’m so excited to share with you right now the perfect issues to do in Brunswick Heads (IMO), whether or not you’re chasing journey, nature, or simply wish to chill out with an incredible espresso and take in the native Aussie life.
Get out on the Brunswick River
Brunswick River, particularly when the solar is out, is totally beautiful. The type of lovely that may have your jaw drop to the bottom. Which is why getting out on the water, whether or not that’s kayaking, paddleboarding or canoeing, is totally probably the greatest issues to do in Brunswick Heads.
The picture beneath was taken on a Sunday in Bruns, which appears to be THE DAY that everybody comes down with all kinds of apparatus, floaties and snorkels to get pleasure from this paradise.
For those who don’t have your individual flotation machine, there are a few corporations on the waterfront which have SUPs, kayaks, canoes and boats you’ll be able to rent!
Adventures on the river can have you glide previous mangroves, observe native birdlife, and on a transparent day you’ll see simply how thriving the underwater world is right here!
Have a grass-fed burger at Outdated Maids
It wasn’t going to take me lengthy to return in sizzling with this suggestion. I’ve misplaced depend of what number of instances I’ve eaten right here, and I reckon I’ve almost made my method by means of the entire menu right here, haha.
When you’ve been out on the water, there’s nothing higher than heading to Outdated Maids for a grass-fed beef burger with a facet of candy potato fries with the chipotle mayo (belief me). My favorite burger is are ‘What She’s Having’ nom nom nom. Thank me later.
Not solely are the burgers a ten/10, however the vibe can be ON right here. This can be a actual locals’ hangout and affords a stupendous dose of weekend social.
P.S. For those who don’t fancy a burger, the pizzas subsequent door at Saint Maries are the BEST on the town. With these two eating places facet by facet and the choice to remove and eat by the ocean, too, you can’t go flawed.
Head to the Brunswick Lodge on a Sunday for a drink and reside music
The right Sunday in Brunswick Heads ends with a drink on the Brunswick Lodge as you take in some native reside music.
This actually is the hub of the city, and significantly on a Sunday, when the solar is out, that is the place everybody gathers.
I’d extremely advocate testing their reside music schedule right here while you’re on the town. Even when it’s a quick cease off, you’ll be able to’t go to Brunswick Heads with out visiting Lodge Brunswick.
Word: The kitchen has not too long ago been taken over right here by the superior Three Blue Geese, and so you might even get your dinner right here (see the menu) and select from seafood favourites, house-made pizzas, and their tackle pub classics.
Seize one thing from Bruns Bakery and have a picnic at Torakina Seaside or Tyagarah Nature Reserve
There are such a lot of beautiful spots to pitch up alongside the river or on the seashores right here in Brunswick Heads. I don’t even must advocate spots, you’ll discover them and it’s so enjoyable going for a bit of wander to seek out your individual. Nature is so considerable right here.
I extremely advocate packing a picnic and a rug and discovering your individual little nook to get pleasure from for the morning or afternoon – or the entire day.
If you need your picnic made for you, pop right down to the well-known Bruns Bakery and decide up some scrumptious savoury and candy treats – all made on website.
Stroll the Brunswick Pier
That is one thing you are able to do at any time of day and offers you beautiful views throughout the principle seaside and down the river to all of the beautiful little white sandy seashores dotted alongside it.
I’ve had essentially the most magical moments on this pier: watching the surf, the native fishermen, recognizing migrating whales, watching the moon rise, and easily having fun with my morning espresso.
Whether or not you go for a stretch of the legs, a surf verify, otherwise you take your dinner to get pleasure from within the night gentle, a stroll down Brunswick Heads pier can’t be missed and is up there with the perfect issues to do in Brunswick Heads.
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Surf the Bruns Seaside break (or watch with a espresso)
When the swell hits proper, a protracted, sandy seaside breaks open off the Brunswick River mouth wall. So you probably have your board, maintain a watch out for a south-east swell with offshore winds and bounce on in. Comply with it up with a lazy morning on the seaside earlier than heading into city for brunch.
Or in case you’d moderately observe from the sidelines, seize your favorite espresso on the town (I’ll share my favs beneath) and sit on the pier for the perfect surf views on the town.
Go for a river swim or snorkel at excessive tide
Precise heaven on earth.
There isn’t a higher approach to cool off than to leap into the clear river waters right here in Brunswick Heads. I imply… have a look at that water. Pack your swimmers as a result of I promise, particularly on a sizzling day, you won’t be able to withstand it!!!!
The underwater world is flourishing right here so you probably have a snorkel, convey it and are available down at excessive tide to get pleasure from this paradise at its absolute peak.
Seize brunch or espresso and take in the morning Bruns buzz
If there’s one factor Australia is aware of learn how to do higher than anybody else, it’s the espresso scene. And even in a small city like Brunswick Heads, NSW, you’ve loads of selection.
- Outdated Maids – for the vibes, the brunch and the perfect chai on the town.
- BK’s – small espresso store however strong 10 for espresso
- Drift – one other 10 on the espresso entrance, strong matcha recreation and a menu full of juices, smoothies and light-weight meals selections
- Footbridge Cafe – a well-liked brunch spot with the total works on the menu
- Bruns Bakery – on your coffees and pastries!
Be part of a exercise/yoga class/guide a restoration session at B3
For those who’re trying to transfer or nourish your physique, other than leaping within the river or ocean, you’ll wish to try B3.
B3 first opened its doorways on the finish of final 12 months (2024) and is the primary fitness center in Australia to mix breathwork, purposeful coaching and distinction remedy (ice baths) into one session. Not solely is that this the most popular place on the town to embrace group health (there’s a yoga and pilates studio too), however the group vibe right here is unmatched!
You’ll be able to view the full class schedule right here. Drop-in passes can be found in case you’re solely on the town for the day and wish to embrace the beautiful facility!
P.s. You’ll be able to presently discover me educating right here each Tuesday within the Breathwork studio!!! Sure, I’m fortunate sufficient to name Brunswick Heads house.
Loosen up at Brunswick Heads essential seaside
Whereas Brunswick River positive factors a number of traction right here in Brunswick Heads NSW, there may be additionally the choice to discover and benefit from the seaside! I imply, simply check out it beneath on a summer time’s day. Say no extra.
Pack your seaside luggage, your swimmers, your suncream (and a solar umbrella you probably have one) and pitch up right here for the day. There’s loads of room to get pleasure from your individual nook, and a piece of the seaside can be dog-friendly. For those who’re searching for a dog-friendly seaside or strolling spot in Brunswick Heads, the principle seaside is your spot!
For those who look intently sufficient, you’ll be able to see the Byron Bay Lighthouse within the distance there!
Have a date night time dinner and cocktails at Bother San
If you need to deal with your self to a scrumptious dinner with a barely fancier atmosphere, look no additional than Bother San, situated on the nook by the principle bridge in Brunswick Heads.
This non-traditional Japanese izakaya menu has some insane flavours woven into it, notably the KINGFISH SASHIMI, KARATE CHICKEN and WAGYU STRIPLOIN.
I child you not. Your style buds will likely be dancing like loopy.
Mix it with a glass of wine or one among their in home cocktails (i like the cherry blossom) and you’ve got your self the PERFECT date night time. View the total menu right here.
Stroll the North Head Monitor and spend the day at Christmas Seaside
For those who’re searching for a haven away from the centre of Brunswick and you’ve got a automobile, drive 10 minutes round by way of New Brighton and park up at North Head automobile park.
From right here, it’s a 15-minute stroll by means of the protected rainforest earlier than you arrive to this… Christmas Seaside.
I’m going to depart it there. I’m unsure this view wants any additional clarification other than bringing your esky and plan to remain for the day.
Different adventures close to Brunswick Heads:
Byron Bay
Duh! For those who haven’t been already, it’s time to swing by this iconic coastal city made well-known for its laid-back barefoot way of life, beautiful seashores, constant surf breaks, its brunch scene and iconic lighthouse stroll.
Springbrook Nationwide Park
Springbrook Nationwide Park is a lush rainforest escape tucked simply off the Gold Coast hinterland, a part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests. Recognized for its beautiful waterfalls, historic Antarctic beech timber, and iconic spots like Purling Brook Falls and the Pure Bridge glowworm cave, it’s a nature-lover’s HEAVEN. Springbrook is a simple day journey or weekend escape for anybody trying to swap the seashores of Brunswick Heads for rainforest magic.
Have you ever been to Brunswick Heads, NSW?
What are the perfect issues to do in Brunswick Head,s NSW? Something you’d add to this Brunswick Heads, NSW bucket checklist?
Love as at all times and blissful adventuring…
