The highlight of this lush, rainforest-filled park is the dramatic coastal view from the lookout on the summit of Mt Yarriabini, which is accessible via a detour from scenic Way Way Creek Rd. Pack a picnic and stop off at the tranquil Pines picnic area where there is a sculptural mosaic artwork by local Aboriginal artists conveying the importance of the mountain to the Dunghutti, Ngambaa and Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Trial Bay Gaol

9.14 MILES

Occupying Trial Bay's eastern headland, this sandstone prison was built between 1877 and 1886 to house convicts brought in to build a breakwater. When…

2. V-Wall

10.42 MILES

For decades residents and holidaymakers have decorated the rocks of Nambucca's breakwater with vivacious multicoloured artwork, and with notes to lovers,…

3. Captain Cook Lookout

10.69 MILES

Of the area's numerous viewpoints, Captain Cook Lookout, set on a high bluff, is the best to ponder the array of beaches, and to look for whales during…

4. Shelly Beach

10.74 MILES

To reach the sheltered tide pools of pretty Shelly Beach, head down the road from Captain Cook Lookout.

5. Beilbys Beach

11.06 MILES

The secluded northern extension of Shelly Beach is wide and sandy, and good for surfing.

6. Headland Historical Museum

11.11 MILES

Above Main Beach, this little museum has local-history exhibits, including a collection of more than 1000 photos.

7. Main Beach

11.22 MILES

Nambucca Heads' only patrolled beach has life guards on duty during the summer holidays, and on weekends from October to April. Dolphins can sometimes be…

8. Smoky Cape Lighthouse

12.06 MILES

Stunning views along the long coast of Hat Head National Park can be had here at NSW's most elevated lighthouse (1891) at the northern end of the park. It…