How to spend five days in Agnes Water and 1770

Whether you arrived by car or plane, you’ll probably want to stretch your legs once you make it to Agnes Water. Answering the call, this neck of the woods has plenty of trails to explore this afternoon.

For something a little different, hop between the stepping stones and wooden walkways of the enchanting Paperbark Trail. Short but sweet, it’s like walking through a scene from a storybook, complete with the singsong of native birds and wildlife.

For a longer stroll, head to the nearby Red Rock Trail, which traverses the coastline delivering hikers to quiet beaches, rocky headlands and rock pools. If you fancy a dip, Springs Beach is a serene, albeit unpatrolled, spot to cool off. Allow for 2-3 hours if you want to tackle the whole walk.

The best way to really sink into holiday mode is set your base for the next five days. Agnes Water and 1770 offer a range of accommodation to suit all budgets, from waterfront cabins and caravan parks to backpacker hostels, holiday homes and resorts.

Day 2

AM: Learn to surf

Agnes Water and 1770 is renowned as home of the northernmost surf breaks on the east coast – and it just so happens to be one of the best places to learn. You’ll be standing in no time during a lesson from Lazy Lizard, Reef 2 Beach or Gnarly Surf Tours – who can also set you up with board rental if you’re a surfer looking to hit the waves solo.

PM: Take in the views

An active morning calls for a relaxed afternoon. Grab lunch at Holidays Café - just steps from the sand of Agnes Water Beach, it makes your return to the waves easy. BYO beach read and spend the next few hours hopping between the water and your beach towel: doing not much feels just right.

Once the sun starts to dip, it’s time to take in the views from a different angle. Make your way to 1770 Headland, where a series of easy walking trails lead to Wave Lookout and Bustard Bay Lookout – the sweeping views of the coastline look even better at golden hour, and is a prime whale watching spot during migration season.

Day 3

All day: Dive into the Great Barrier Reef

It’s time to meet the Reef – and it is doesn’t get more magnificent than the marine haven known as Lady Musgrave Island.

Jump on board a day cruise with family-owned 1770 Reef and you’ll be pulling into Lady Musgrave’s sparkling turquoise lagoon within 90 minutes. You’ll have five hours to explore this jewel of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, so don your snorkel and fins and dive beneath to discover a bustling world of marine life, from vibrant corals to clownfish, sea turtles, reef sharks, manta rays and more.

Calm waters and the makes this an accessible activity for kids and beginner snorkellers, with the option to use flotation equipment too.

Above the surface, the full-day trip includes a smorgasbord lunch, glass bottom boat tours, and a guided tour around the island.

Whether this is your first Great Barrier Reef experience, or one of many, it’s an adventure you’ll never forget.

Day 4

All day: Get off-the-beaten-track

Want to see all corners of Agnes Water and 1770, but don’t have a 4WD? You need the most fabulous mode of transport in the region, the LARC! This tutu-pink amphibious vehicle takes adventurers across deserted beaches and estuaries to remote national parks on a full day ‘Paradise Tour’.

It’s action-packed from start to finish, while also a fascinating introduction to the wildlife and history of the region. Step inside the operating lighthouse at Bustard Head Lightstation to hear about the struggles of early settlers, then head deeper into Eurimbula National Park – thrill seekers will love sand surfing down towering dunes. Pack lightly, as the trip includes morning tea, lunch and an Aussie Billy Tea.

Of course, if you have your own 4WD you may wish to lead your own wild adventure today. Choose from the beaches and mangroves of Eurimbula National Park, a great spot for anglers or hikers. Or, make your way south to the unspoilt coastline of Deepwater National Park, where you can spot native birds and turtles that frequent the beaches.

Day 5

AM: Back to the beach

Slow your pace this morning with a leisurely breakfast. Café Discovery is a solid choice along the main drag, while Getaway Garden Café oozes tranquility, sitting on the edge of the pond among a tropical garden.

Spend your final day clocking up more beach time: because when they’re this good, you want to make the most of it. Where to throw down your beach towel? Chinaman's Beach is usually much quieter and pretty easy to access, but if you prefer lifeguard patrolled, head back to Agnes Water Beach – the views never get old.

When it’s time to take a break from the sun, take the opportunity to indulge in local flavours once more. 1770 Distillery is open Thursday – Sunday, and makes a range of liqueurs from locally-grown native fruit and botanicals. Tastings are free, the perfect excuse to find the flavour you love and take home a truly local souvenir for you or someone special.

PM: Paddle out for sunset

Soak in your last sunset from an incredible vantage point. 1770 Liquid Adventures runs sunset kayak tours, your invitation to explore the calm waterways, spotting birds, dolphins, turtles and more along the way. Water lapping gently at your kayak as the sky comes alive with burning orange is a fitting end to the nature-filled week by the sea.  

Not quite ready to leave? 

Embark on the detour of a lifetime to experience the magic of Lady Elliot Island. You’ll have to drive south to Bundaberg for a scenic flight to the island, a renowned eco-resort and marine sanctuary, but this is a detour you’ll remember forever. Here’s a little more about what to expect.