You won’t find Brunswick Heads topping many ‘typical’ East Coast Australia bucket lists – but after 12 years (and counting) of travelling this country, I’m just going to come out and say it: this is my favourite spot in Australia.
Tucked away in Northern NSW and just 15 minutes north of Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads is a laid-back riverside, beachfront town that feels like a throwback to the Byron of years gone by. While Byron Bay still has its unique magic, its roads and pathways are often crowded with tourists and upscale establishments. Brunswick Heads, on the other hand, offers the same barefoot, carefree energy that we all fell in love with in Byron – just without the crowds.
Known for its calm estuary, where freshwater from the river meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, time in Brunswick Heads (or Bruns, as the locals call it) is all about enjoying unspoilt nature and a buzzing local community. Days in Brunswick Heads are best spent swimming in the river, surfing gentle beach breaks, enjoying long brunches (plus excellent coffee), and soaking up the kind of coastal lifestyle that makes you want to sell up and move here immediately. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
Whether you’re looking into camping in Brunswick Heads, browsing Brunswick Heads hotels, or planning meals around the best Brunswick Heads restaurants, this little town delivers… and some.
While Brunswick Heads, NSW, still feels like a locals’ secret, it’s quietly gaining attention – with artists like Fred Again, Ziggy Alberts and Lime Cordiale popping up for intimate gigs at the iconic Brunswick Hotel over recent years.
So, if you’re dreaming of slow mornings, salty swims and an off-the-beaten-track gem here in Australia, you’re in the right place. This Brunswick Heads travel guide is packed with all the best things to do in Brunswick Heads, including local tips on where to swim, surf, eat, exercise, watch the sunset, and – of course – where to find the very best brunch and coffee spots in Brunswick Heads. Let’s tuck in.
Getting to Brunswick Heads
Brunswick Heads is easiest to reach by car, making it the perfect stop on your East Coast road trip. There is a bus that runs from Byron Bay to Brunswick Heads (about 35 minutes vs. the 15-minute drive), but, as in most of Australia, unless you’re in the city, I wouldn’t recommend buses. You’d be better off hiring a car for the day and gifting yourself the freedom and flexibility to enjoy it at your own pace.
If you’re flying in from interstate or overseas, the closest airports are Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and Gold Coast Airport, both about 20 minutes away.
Alternatively, by car, you can drive south along the scenic Pacific Highway from Brisbane (about 2 hours) or north from Sydney (around 8 hours) to arrive in Brunswick Heads. Again, though, I’d highly recommend having a car – there’s so much to explore nearby and in the hinterland, including beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls and national parks like Springbrook NP.
Where to Stay in Brunswick Heads
Though Brunswick Heads is a small town, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to accommodation. If you’re wandering about places to stay, here are some recommendations I have for you:
If you’re hoping to go camping in Brunswick Heads, you have Reflections Brunswick Heads Holiday Park, Reflections Massy Greene Holiday Park and Ferry Reserve Holiday Park & Caravan Park.
If you prefer a hotel in Brunswick Heads, you have Hotel Brunswick (part of the iconic pub) Brunswick River Inn (right in the heart) or set back a little from the centre of town but still walking distance, there’s The Sails Motel and Chalet Motel. Those are the best hotels in Brunswick Heads.
Honestly, though, there’s not really a bad place to stay in town; everything is within walking distance, which is what makes it so special here.
When is the best time to visit Brunswick Heads?
I would say the best times to visit the Northern Rivers and Brunswick Heads are spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May).
During these months, you’ll find that the weather is mild and you’ll also avoid the crowds. Summer (December–February) is also fantastic, it’s just the peak time. There’s plenty of nature to share, but it can get busy, and parking is limited, which can be frustrating. Winter (June–August) offers a peaceful time to visit, with opportunities to spot Whales migrating and enjoy the cooler temperatures in Brunswick Heads, NSW.
Australia Travel Resources for you:
This post has been a long time coming. I am so excited to share with you today the best things to do in Brunswick Heads (IMO), whether you’re chasing adventure, nature, or just want to relax with a great coffee and soak up the local Aussie life.
Get out on the Brunswick River
Brunswick River, especially when the sun is out, is absolutely stunning. The kind of beautiful that will have your jaw drop to the ground. Which is why getting out on the water, whether that’s kayaking, paddleboarding or canoeing, is absolutely one of the best things to do in Brunswick Heads.
The photo below was taken on a Sunday in Bruns, which seems to be THE DAY that everyone comes down with all sorts of equipment, floaties and snorkels to enjoy this paradise.
If you don’t have your own flotation device, there are a couple of companies on the waterfront that have SUPs, kayaks, canoes and boats you can hire!
Adventures on the river will have you glide past mangroves, observe local birdlife, and on a clear day you’ll see just how thriving the underwater world is here!
Have a grass-fed burger at Old Maids
It wasn’t going to take me long to come in hot with this recommendation. I’ve lost count of how many times I have eaten here, and I reckon I’ve nearly made my way through the whole menu here, haha.
Once you’ve been out on the water, there’s nothing better than heading to Old Maids for a grass-fed beef burger with a side of sweet potato fries with the chipotle mayo (trust me). My favourite burger is are ‘What She’s Having’ nom nom nom. Thank me later.
Not only are the burgers a 10/10, but the vibe is also ON here. This is a real locals’ hangout and offers a beautiful dose of weekend social.
P.S. If you don’t fancy a burger, the pizzas next door at Saint Maries are the BEST in town. With these two restaurants side by side and the option to take away and eat by the ocean, too, you cannot go wrong.
Head to the Brunswick Hotel on a Sunday for a drink and live music
The perfect Sunday in Brunswick Heads ends with a drink at the Brunswick Hotel as you soak up some local live music.
This really is the hub of the town, and particularly on a Sunday, when the sun is out, this is where everyone gathers.
I’d highly recommend checking out their live music schedule here whilst you’re in town. Even if it’s a brief stop off, you can’t visit Brunswick Heads without visiting Hotel Brunswick.
Note: The kitchen has recently been taken over here by the awesome Three Blue Ducks, and so you could even get your dinner here (see the menu) and choose from seafood favourites, house-made pizzas, and their take on pub classics.
Grab something from Bruns Bakery and have a picnic at Torakina Beach or Tyagarah Nature Reserve
There are so many stunning spots to pitch up along the river or on the beaches here in Brunswick Heads. I don’t even need to recommend spots, you’ll find them and it’s so fun going for a little wander to find your own. Nature is so abundant here.
I highly recommend packing a picnic and a rug and finding your own little nook to enjoy for the morning or afternoon – or the whole day.
If you want your picnic made for you, pop down to the famous Bruns Bakery and pick up some delicious savoury and sweet treats – all made on site.
Walk the Brunswick Pier
This is something you can do at any time of day and will give you stunning views across the main beach and down the river to all the gorgeous little white sandy beaches dotted along it.
I’ve had the most magical moments on this pier: watching the surf, the local fishermen, spotting migrating whales, watching the moon rise, and simply enjoying my morning coffee.
Whether you go for a stretch of the legs, a surf check, or you take your dinner to enjoy in the evening light, a walk down Brunswick Heads pier cannot be missed and is up there with the best things to do in Brunswick Heads.
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Surf the Bruns Beach break (or watch with a coffee)
When the swell hits right, a long, sandy beach breaks open off the Brunswick River mouth wall. So if you have your board, keep an eye out for a south-east swell with offshore winds and jump on in. Follow it up with a lazy morning at the beach before heading into town for brunch.
Or if you’d rather observe from the sidelines, grab your favourite coffee in town (I’ll share my favs below) and sit on the pier for the best surf views in town.
Go for a river swim or snorkel at high tide
Actual heaven on earth.
There is no better way to cool off than to jump into the clear river waters here in Brunswick Heads. I mean… look at that water. Pack your swimmers because I promise, especially on a hot day, you will not be able to resist it!!!!
The underwater world is thriving here so if you have a snorkel, bring it and come down at high tide to enjoy this paradise at its absolute peak.
Grab brunch or coffee and soak up the morning Bruns buzz
If there’s one thing Australia knows how to do better than anyone else, it’s the coffee scene. And even in a small town like Brunswick Heads, NSW, you have plenty of choice.
- Old Maids – for the vibes, the brunch and the best chai in town.
- BK’s – small coffee shop but solid 10 for coffee
- Drift – another 10 on the coffee front, solid matcha game and a menu filled with juices, smoothies and light food choices
- Footbridge Cafe – a popular brunch spot with the full works on the menu
- Bruns Bakery – for your coffees and pastries!
Join a workout/yoga class/book a recovery session at B3
If you’re looking to move or nourish your body, aside from jumping in the river or ocean, you’ll want to check out B3.
B3 first opened its doors at the end of last year (2024) and is the first gym in Australia to combine breathwork, functional training and contrast therapy (ice baths) into one session. Not only is this the hottest place in town to embrace group fitness (there is a yoga and pilates studio too), but the community vibe here is unmatched!
You can view the full class schedule here. Drop-in passes are available if you’re only in town for the day and want to embrace the stunning facility!
P.s. You can currently find me teaching here every Tuesday in the Breathwork studio!!! Yes, I am lucky enough to call Brunswick Heads home.
Relax at Brunswick Heads main beach
While Brunswick River gains a lot of traction here in Brunswick Heads NSW, there is also the option to explore and enjoy the beach! I mean, just take a look at it below on a summer’s day. Say no more.
Pack your beach bags, your swimmers, your suncream (and a sun umbrella if you have one) and pitch up here for the day. There’s plenty of room to enjoy your own nook, and a section of the beach is also dog-friendly. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach or walking spot in Brunswick Heads, the main beach is your spot!
If you look closely enough, you can see the Byron Bay Lighthouse in the distance there!
Have a date night dinner and cocktails at Trouble San
If you would like to treat yourself to a delicious dinner with a slightly fancier ambience, look no further than Trouble San, located on the corner by the main 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 kid you not. Your taste buds will be dancing like crazy.
Combine it with a glass of wine or one of their in house cocktails (i love the cherry blossom) and you have yourself the PERFECT date night. View the full menu here.
Walk the North Head Track and spend the day at Christmas Beach
If you’re looking for a haven away from the centre of Brunswick and you have a car, drive 10 minutes around via New Brighton and park up at North Head car park.
From here, it’s a 15-minute walk through the protected rainforest before you arrive to this… Christmas Beach.
I’m going to leave it there. I’m not sure this view needs any further explanation apart from bringing your esky and plan to stay for the day.
Other adventures near Brunswick Heads:
Byron Bay
Duh! If you haven’t been already, it’s time to swing by this iconic coastal town made famous for its laid-back barefoot lifestyle, stunning beaches, consistent surf breaks, its brunch scene and iconic lighthouse walk.
Springbrook National Park
Springbrook National Park is a lush rainforest escape tucked just off the Gold Coast hinterland, part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests. Known for its stunning waterfalls, ancient Antarctic beech trees, and iconic spots like Purling Brook Falls and the Natural Bridge glowworm cave, it’s a nature-lover’s HEAVEN. Springbrook is an easy day trip or weekend escape for anyone looking to swap the beaches of Brunswick Heads for rainforest magic.
Have you been to Brunswick Heads, NSW?
What are the best things to do in Brunswick Head,s NSW? Anything you’d add to this Brunswick Heads, NSW bucket list?
Love as always and happy adventuring…
