Crescent Head has that unique charm that only small Aussie beach towns have, it is quiet and serene yet with plenty of interesting activities to do for all the family. There is a good variety of accommodation options, a choice of cafes, and a local bakery that serves the tastiest vanilla slice I’ve had in years!
By Kirsten Karbowiak
Crescent Head is on the Mid North Coast of NSW, 45 minutes north of Port Macquarie and 1 ½ hrs south of Coffs Harbour.
- Drive: The drive time from Sydney is 4 hrs 45 mins.
- Fly: 1-hour flight to Coffs, and a hire car for a 1 ½ hr drive
Crescent Head Family Accommodation
Our group consisted of three families, two with children, so we chose to stay in a holiday rental a few streets up the hill from the beach, it was called Mirrador. It had plenty of space making it comfortable for everyone. Although it meant we needed to bring the pram down to get to the beach (and up the hill to get home…), it did present us with the most spectacular view out to the ocean.
For a more relaxed feel, the Crescent Head Holiday Park may be the way to go. They even cater for dogs, so you can bring your pooch with you. We cut through the holiday park each day to reach the beach and I noticed a pretty even mix of families, surfers and retirees. You really can’t beat its’ location; literally a minutes’ walk from the beach!
Having a look at this Booking.com Deals Finder is another useful way to research holiday houses, motels and hotels in Crescent Head.
Booking.com
Things To Do At Crescent Head With Kids
Golf, Tennis and Bowls
Crescent Head Country Club is centrally located and doesn’t disappoint. The golf-enthusiasts amongst us can enjoy panoramic views while playing. $16 for all day play isn’t bad either! Or, if tennis is more your thing then there are two courts available to book. Our group spent the afternoon ‘bare-foot bowling’ with a sundowner in hand which proved enjoyable for all ages. Bookings are recommended, and it’ll set you back $6 per adult.
Surfing
Into Surfing? The world-famous point break is one of the longest rides in Australia. If you’re more of a body-boarder or swimmer then pick your spot; you’ll be spoilt with 5kms of spectacular coast-line either side of Crescent Head.
Play at the Lagoon
On the way to the beach you walk across a little bridge over an inlet/lagoon. On most days, the water was flowing towards the ocean enough for the blow-up pool toy to float on down, but plenty calm enough for the babies. A bonus was the nice flat sandy area alongside the waters’ edge, perfect for a game of frisbee and Kubb.
The water was streaming with fish, and the bridge seemed to be a pretty popular spot to go fishing.
Playground + Skate Park
The kids park is right by the inlet/lagoon and consists of play equipment suitable for kids aged 1-6.
With a one-year-old, I spent most of my time going up and down the slide and on the big circular swing. The mini rock-climbing wall was neat and seemed popular with the 2-3-year-olds.
For the older kids, there’s a skate park within line of sight from the playground.
There is an undercover BBQ area and a few benches scattered around the area.
Conveniently located in the vicinity of the park, is the toilet block complete with change table and warm shower which was very handy on the way back from the beach. When I was there, everything had been kept clean and tidy.
Eating and Drinking
We visited Barnett’s Bakery almost every day – we just couldn’t resist. They have some of the old classics, along with pies and more contemporary baked goods and are definitely worth a visit.
Barnett’s Bakery, 2 Main Street, Crescent Head
Blackfish Coffee just around the corner serves a decent cup of coffee and I can also vouch for the milkshakes at Surf Sliders Café right on the point.
Blackfish Coffee, Shop 2/4, East Street Crescent Head
If you’re looking to stock up meals for the family, the Foodworks in town is well-stocked and reasonably priced. For a big shop, we went into Port Macquarie where there’s a Coles.
More Things To Do At Crescent Head
- Take in the views from the top of Crescent Head
- Explore the nearby National Parks: Goolawah NP, Limeburners NP and Hat Head NP.
- The Big Hill Rainforest Walking Track is only 1.4km, read more here
- Learn to surf at Surfaris Retreat
Click here to find more easy weekends away with kids in New South Wales.
If you love this part of the world, you’ll also love reading about Forster Holidays with Kids, and about 15 Things To Do At Port Stephens With Kids. Or head further north and investigate all the fun things to do at Lennox Head with kids.
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