Coastal Localities: Agnes Water and the Town of 1770
Nestled on the east coast of Australia, Agnes Water has earned a spot in the author's top three favourite destinations in the country. This charming town, reminiscent of Byron Bay two decades ago, offers a unique blend of coastal recreation, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a relaxed beachside atmosphere.
During the author's first visit in 2020, Agnes Water provided a serene escape amidst the start of the Covid pandemic. The town, home to the most northerly surf beach on Australia's east coast, is a haven for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.
Agnes Water Beach, with its ocean swells and scenic camping spots, is a must-visit. Main Beach, a popular spot for walking, sunbathing, and surfing or bodyboarding, boasts small waves suitable for longboards or foamies. The Holiday Cafe on the campsite offers a perfect pitstop for coffee and food, with a view of the point break at the rocks. For those seeking a more secluded beach, Secret Beach, accessible via a bush trail, is worth the exploration.
The town's attractions extend beyond its beaches. The Red Rock Walking Trail offers stunning coastal scenery and beaches, starting at Springs Beach. This hiking trail passes through three small coves, leading to breathtaking panoramic views from the Discovery Trail Lookout. For marine wildlife spotting, sunrise watching, and dolphin and whale sightings, the lookout is a must-visit.
Seventeen Seventy, a 10-minute drive from Agnes Water, offers additional experiences. The town, named by Captain Cook who landed there in 1770, features the 1770 Marina, offering a fantastic view for sunset with the sun setting behind the mountains. The Marina also serves as a gateway to Joseph Banks Conservation Park, a natural haven for waterfront experiences.
The Agnes Water Museum and Visitor Centre provides insights into local Aboriginal culture, pioneering history, and maritime heritage. The Paperbark Forest Boardwalk offers nature walks among unique forest ecosystems. For fishing enthusiasts, The Catwalk in Seventeen Seventy is a popular spot, where big mackerel and tuna can be caught at the right time.
Exploring Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy is made easier with various activities. Lady Musgrave Island tours, scooter or e-bike rides, and 1770 LARC amphibious vehicle tours are popular choices. Local events such as the Blues, Roots, and Rocks Festival in February and the Discovery Coast Rotary Markets, held on the 2nd and 4th Sundays, add to the town's vibrant atmosphere.
Accommodation options in Agnes Water cater to various budgets. The Cool Bananas Backpacker Hostel, a favourite of the author, offers accommodation in an 8-bed room, as well as space for camping in a van or rooftop tent. For a more luxurious stay, the Escape 1770 Motel, overlooking Agnes Water bay, is an excellent choice.
After a day of exploration, the Agnes Water Tavern offers a cold beer at the end of the day. For a taste of local seafood, the Coral Seafood and Takeaway serves an excellent calamari burger. On occasion, the author has been lucky enough to enjoy freshly caught tuna, shared by a friendly local fisherman named Goshi, with hostel guests.
As the weather in late September (spring) is beautiful, with temperatures not yet being too hot and humid, and no summer rainfall, Agnes Water is an ideal destination for a spring getaway. With its secluded beaches, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, local markets, and scenic lookouts, Agnes Water offers a perfect blend for those seeking a relaxed beachside holiday.
Agnes Water's unique lifestyle, blending coastal recreation and outdoor adventures, makes it an ideal spot for travel and adventure-travel enthusiasts seeking a serene escape amidst nature, as was experienced during the author's visit in 2020. With the Red Rock Walking Trail offering stunning coastal views, secret beaches to explore, and marine wildlife spotting opportunities, Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy present a wealth of travel experiences.
