Discover the Beauty of Evans Head, NSW: A Guide to Exploring this Coastal Town

by | Australia, Beaches, Dog-Friendly, Featured, New South Wales, New South Wales, Travel

Evans Head, located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, is a charming coastal town that offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventure in nature, or a chance to learn about the local history and culture, Evans Head has something for you.

Distance

The distance from Brisbane to Evans Heads is approximately 200 km, which can be covered by car in about 2 hours via the M1. From Byron Bay, it is around 20 km, while the distance from Sydney to Evans Head is approximately 600 km and 6 to 7 hours via the M1.

Weather

Evans Head enjoys a warm, subtropical climate all year round, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C in winter to 26°C in summer. Summer is the wettest time of year, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected. Winter is dryer and sunnier, with cooler temperatures and low humidity.

Evans Head NSW

Accommodation

Reflections Holiday Park Evans Head offers various accommodation options, including waterfront beach houses, villas, cabins, caravan sites, and camping sites. The HUGE park has several facilities for guests to enjoy, including BBQ areas, children’s playground, laundries, camp kitchens, and dog wash down. Cabins are also equipped with kitchen facilities, air-conditioning and TV.

Luxury Cabins

The Bowlo Luxury Cabins are conveniently located in the town centre with easy access to the surf beach and Evans Head Bowling Club. The luxury 1, 2 and 3-bedroom cabins are newly built with modern facilities catering to singles, couples and families.

A large selection of family-friendly accommodation available from local motels and holiday agencies such as Airbnb, Stayz and Booking.com

Wi-Fi | Get Connected!

The internet connection speed and quality around Evans Head can be poor and non-existent! Telstra and Optus are more reliable providers if you depend on the internet.

Most public libraries, including the Evans Head Library, provide free internet access. This service is typically available on library-owned computers through the library’s Wi-Fi network and Wi-Fi hotspots that can be used outside the library. It is recommended to check with the library for specific information on their internet access policies.

Evans Head Aviation Museum

Things To Do | Evans Head NSW

Chinamans Beach:  This secluded beach is ideal for swimming, surfing and fishing. The centre of the beach is accessible by a wooden walkway across a small swamp. Adjacent to Chinamans Beach car park is the picnic area surrounded by Dirawong Reserve, An excellent spot for picnics with plenty of tables, shade and public toilets.

New Zealand Beach & Snapper Rock:  New Zealand Beach curves south of Chinamans for 600 metres. Before walking to Snapper Rock, the area between the beach and New Zealand Beach offers many rock pools to be explored at low tide. However, the beaches south of Snapper Rock are closed to the public due to their proximity to the bombing range.

National Park: Evans Head is surrounded by national park. Broadwater to the north and Bandjalung to the south. There are sprawling wetlands, thousands of birds, walking trails, and freshwater lagoons. On the 3.3 km Gummigurrah walking track, keep an eye out for koalas in the Bandjalung National Park.

Coastal Viewpoints: Goanna Headland and Razorback Lookout have the best coastal views. Goanna Headland has a deep spiritual connection with the local Aboriginal people.

Whale and Dolphin Spotting: Annually, humpback and other whales can be spotted along the coast and pods of dolphins regularly frolic in the waves along the sandy beaches.

Evans River: Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and canoeing is ideal in the calm waters of the estuary that divides the town. Want to learn to surf, then head to Evans Head Beach. The beach is protected from the southeast swells and is the ideal place to practice the mechanics of surfing. Take a stroll along the Evans River and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Jerusalem Creek is another popular waterway for paddling located in the Bundjalung National Park on the southern side of town.

Attractions

Museums: F-111 Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the F-111 fighter aircraft and is well worth a visit. It is located at the Evans Head Aerodrome. Opening times are Saturday and Sunday from 10 am and 4 pm and Tuesday from 9 am to 12 noon. Local guides conduct tours on weekends, and no booking is necessary. There is ample parking for all types of vehicles.

The Evans Head Living Museum is located on the Evan River foreshore in Clarrie Kirkland Reserve adjacent to Reflections Holiday Park.

The Museum boasts historical photographs, newspaper articles, World War II memorabilia and items related to Evans Heads’ history. The Living Museum is an excellent place to learn about the history and development of the Evans Head township.

Fishing Classic: Evans Head Fishing Classic is an annual event held each year during the winter school holidays. For more information, visit the Evans Head Fishing Classic website.

Library: The Evans Head Library offers free Wi-Fi, books, and computers, making it a great place to catch up on work, relax or do some research.

Picnic areas: Evans Head has a range of picnic areas with tables and shade, including Chinamans Beach and along the Evans River.

Shopping: Evans Head has a range of shops, including IGA and Spar supermarkets, souvenir and gift shops, and surf and fashion boutiques.

Farmers Market: Evans Head Farmers Market is held every Friday at the surf club between 2.30-6.30 pm. The organic market supports local farmers, bakers and makers. Locals and visitors have access to fresh, locally sourced organic produce.

Parking: Parking is readily available in Evans Head, with plenty of free parking spaces open throughout the town.

Where to Eat at Evans Head NSW

Seafood Co-op: If you’re a seafood lover, check out the Evans Head Seafood Co-op near the marina. Here you can buy fresh, local seafood every day. You can take away or cook it yourself.

Takeaway restaurants: Evans Head has a range of takeaway restaurants that offer everything from burgers, tacos, fish n chips to Thai and Chinese cuisine.

Club Evans RSL: The Evans Head RSL Club serves a range of meals and snacks and offers live entertainment on Friday Nights. The Coffee Shop opens at 10 am, while the Riverbistro opens daily for lunch and dinner. Other entertainment includes Bingo, Poker, Line Dancing, Raffles and more.

Hotel Illawong:  Hotel Illawong captures the spirit of the great Australian beach holiday. Centrally located and opposite Reflections Holiday Park. Well mannered dogs are welcomed in the beer garden.  

Bowls Club: The Evans Head Bowls Club has a bistro that serves a range of meals, takeaways as well as lawn bowls, darts, and pool. Evans Head Bowlo is open every day until late.  Cabin and Hertz car rental and bottleshop close at 9 pm.  Beechies Sunset Bar is the perfect deck to kick back with a cocktail, delicious fresh pizzas and live music. Pizzas are available Thursday to Sunday from 5pm. (Dine-in only). Free Live Music every Friday 5-8pm and Sunday from 3-6pm.

Muzza’s Milk Bar: Located in Oak Street, is an old-fashioned Milk Bar specialising in ice creams, milkshakes, thick shakes, and confectionery.

The Bakery: The local bakery located in the heart of the neighbourhood is popular for its freshly baked pies, pastries, cakes, and bread. The warm and inviting aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, tempting customers inside. The friendly staff is always eager to help find the perfect treat, whether it’s a flaky croissant for breakfast or a salad sandwich for lunch. The bakery also offers a variety of coffee and tea options to enjoy with your baked goods. The bakery is a beloved community staple and a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Pub Food in Australia 

Pub food in Australia typically consists of hearty, filling dishes designed to be enjoyed in a casual, laid-back setting. Some popular options include:

  • Fish and chips: A classic dish of crispy-fried fish fillets and thick-cut chips. It’s often served with tartare sauce and a lemon wedge.

  • Steak: A staple of the pub menu, steaks in Australia are usually grilled to order and served with chips or roasted vegetables.

  • Pies: Savory meat pies are a popular choice, with fillings ranging from traditional beef and gravy to more innovative options like chicken and mushroom or Thai green curry.

  • Parmigiana: A dish made of crumbed chicken or eggplant, topped with tomato sauce, melted cheese, and served with chips.

  • Burgers: Pubs in Australia often have a selection of burgers on the menu, ranging from classic beef burgers to more elaborate creations with unique toppings.

  • Sausages: Grilled sausages, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy, are a common option for those looking for a classic pub meal.

In addition to these staple dishes, many pubs in Australia also offer a range of salads, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options. And of course, no pub meal in Australia is complete without a cold beer or a glass of wine to wash it all down.

Holidaying with your Pet in Evans Head?

Then you must read “Discover the Best Dog-Friendly Places in Evans Head NSW”.

Discover the Best Dog-Friendly Places in Evans Head NSW

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