Things to Do in Evans Head, NSW: Nature, Beaches & Hidden Gems
- Deb Carr
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
Tucked between the Richmond River and the protected wilderness of Bundjalung National Park, Evans Head is one of the North Coast’s most underrated gems. With its sweeping beaches, tranquil riverside setting, and peaceful pace of life, this relaxed seaside town makes a refreshing alternative to busier destinations like Byron Bay or Ballina.
Whether you’re chasing waves, casting a fishing line, camping beneath the stars or simply craving salty air and space to breathe, Evans Head delivers that unpolished, barefoot holiday vibe that’s getting harder to find.
Why Visit Evans Head?
Evans Head offers something many coastal towns have lost — a sense of calm and simplicity. Here, nature is the hero: think long sandy beaches, crystal-clear waterways, and ancient paperbark forests. It’s ideal for:
Beach days without the crowds
Laid-back family holidays
Pet-friendly escapes
Fishing and boating enthusiasts
Nature walks and national park adventures
You won’t find mega resorts or high-rises here — just friendly locals, great seafood, and a strong connection to the surrounding land and water.
Top Things to Do in Evans Head
Relax on Evans Head Main Beach
Backed by sand dunes and a grassy foreshore, Evans Head Main Beach is patrolled in summer and perfect for families. The surf is gentle enough for a dip, and there’s plenty of space to stretch out without bumping elbows.
Explore Bundjalung National Park
Evans Head is the southern gateway to Bundjalung National Park, home to walking tracks, remote beaches, and culturally significant sites for the Bundjalung people. The Gummigurrah walking track offers a peaceful stroll through coastal heath and woodland, while the Chinaman’s Beach access leads to a quiet, secluded bay framed by rocky cliffs.
Go Fishing or Boating on the Richmond River
If you love to fish, you’re in luck. The Richmond River and offshore reefs are teeming with bream, flathead, whiting, and tailor. There’s a boat ramp on the river, a breakwall for land-based fishing, and even local charters for serious anglers. Evans Head Coastal Bar Webcam.
Visit the Evans Head Living Museum
This volunteer-run museum captures the town’s local stories, including its WWII aviation history when the RAAF No.1 Bombing and Gunnery School was based here. It's small but full of character, and a great way to learn about Evans Head’s unique past.
Watch the Sunset from Razorback Lookout
Just a few minutes' drive from town, Razorback Lookout gives panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean, the breakwall, and the river mouth. It’s a brilliant spot for whale watching in winter or catching golden skies in the late afternoon.
Take a Surf or Swim at Chinaman’s Beach
Located south of Main Beach, Chinaman’s Beach is a more rugged, less-developed stretch of coast. It's popular with surfers and those seeking a quiet spot to swim or sit with a book, backed by dramatic headland cliffs and native bush.
Where to Stay in Evans Head
Evans Head keeps it relaxed when it comes to accommodation — think riverside cabins, beachside campgrounds, and pet-friendly motels. Popular options include:
Reflections Holiday Park Evans Head – beside the river and walking distance to everything
Boutique Airbnb stays tucked in the bush or just off the beach
Family-friendly cabins, motels, and powered campsites
Where to Eat & Drink in Evans Head
You’ll find a mix of low-key cafés, fish and chip shops, and a few spots that punch above their weight:
The Sandbar & Restaurant – a relaxed modern Australian menu with fresh seafood
Illawong Hotel – a classic pub with a good bistro and beer garden
Wurlizter Bakery - award winning bakery
Getting to Evans Head
Evans Head is:
45 minutes south of Byron Bay
33 minutes from Ballina Airport
Easily accessed via the Pacific Highway through Woodburn
It makes a great stopover or slow-paced base for a longer North Coast road trip.
Other Places to Visit Nearby
While you’re in the region, consider exploring:
Iluka – where the Clarence River meets the sea
Yamba – for boutique shopping, cafes, and epic surf
Ballina – for river cruises, local seafood, and aviation history
Broadwater – a tiny sugar town surrounded by wetlands and cane fields
Evans Head may not scream for attention, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a place where you can breathe, reset, and connect with nature. Whether you’re pitching a tent, heading out on the boat, or simply looking for a quiet place to walk barefoot by the sea — Evans Head will welcome you in.
