One of the best free things to do in The Tweed is to spend the day on the beach. The Tweed Coast is lined with pristine beaches just perfect for family fun. Kingscliff Beach, Cabarita Beach and Pottsville’s inlets and estuaries offer a range of beach play from surf waves to gentle splash spots and there is plenty of space for sandcastle building and beach cricket for the whole family. Wake the kids early and venture up Norries Headland at Cabarita for spectacular sunrise views over the ocean and clear to the horizon.
Pack a picnic and spend the day at Cudgen Creek, a picturesque waterway perfect for enjoying free activities like swimming, paddleboarding and canoeing or simply floating around in the sunshine while parents can relax under the shade of the trees.
Bring your bikes or take a walk along the Tweed Coast’s stunning coastal pathway that stretches from Kingscliff to Cabarita Beach, offering ocean views and plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery or cool off with a splash, plus keep your eyes open for outdoor sculptures along the way!
The Tweed is home to a range of fun and free markets where families can soak up the welcoming community spirit. The Kingscliff Beachside Markets (held on the second and fourth Saturday of every month) offer local produce, handmade crafts and delicious food right by the beach. The Murwillumbah Farmers Market (every Wednesday) is perfect for fresh local produce and live entertainment, while the Tyalgum Village Market (held on the last Saturday of each month) brings a charming country vibe with artisan stalls and live music.
Image by Mazzer Photography
A must to visit, Fingal Head is home to a breathtaking headland walk leading to the Giant’s Causeway – a unique rock formation created by ancient volcanic activity. It’s an easy walk with spectacular ocean views and an original lighthouse and you might spot dolphins or even whales during migration season.
Image by Sabine Bannard
For a dose of creativity and culture, head to the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre in Murwillumbah. Entry is free and families can explore stunning artworks, interactive kids’ activities, and the famous Margaret Olley Art Centre, which recreates the home studio of one of Australia’s most celebrated painters. There are often kids art workshops too so check ahead for their schedule of activity.
For a fun and free adventure for the whole family don’t miss the Tweed Regional Museum. With interactive exhibits, local history and hands-on activities, kids can explore everything from the region’s First Nations stories to its farming and surfing history. With regular programs for kids, the museum offers an exciting way to learn while having fun, a must for families looking to dive deeper into the heart of The Tweed.
Image by @lifewiththeleipers
For a picturesque hinterland escape, visit Clarrie Hall Dam near Uki. It’s a beautiful and tranquil area for a family picnic, with scenic views of Wollumbin Mount Warning, fun fishing spots, calm paddling and plenty of open space for kids to explore. It’s a stunning spot to take in sunset too.
Image by Jono Tan
Take a self-guided stroll through Murwillumbah’s historic town centre, discovering original Art Deco features, charming heritage buildings, street art and local history along the way. It’s an easy and educational way to explore The Tweed’s past and you can pick up a copy of the self-guided walk, Facade, at the Tweed Regional Museum.
Image by Sally Singh
Enjoy a family walk or BYO bikes to experience the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. It’s a 24 km one way journey along an easy, flat and scenic trail, taking in lush countryside and picturesque farmland, historic bridges and a 500m long railway tunnel. You’ll also pass through gorgeous country villages where you can stop, stretch the legs and grab a coffee or bite to eat.
For families with a love of adventure, the Uki Mountain Bike Park offers free access to a range of mountain bike trails for all different skill levels, including a track designed especially for younger riders just starting out. Set in the stunning Tweed hinterland town of Uki, it’s a great spot for kids and parents alike to test their riding skills while enjoying breathtaking views.
One of the best playgrounds in The Tweed, Livvi’s Place at Goorimahbah – Place of Stories is an inclusive, all-abilities play space designed to spark imagination and inspire creativity. Located in Jack Evans Boat Harbour, this vibrant and inclusive space features water play areas, sensory zones, climbing structures and interactive storytelling elements inspired by the local Indigenous culture. It’s a fantastic spot for kids to run, explore and engage in active play while parents relax and enjoy the scenic waterfront setting.
From beach days to bushwalks, markets, and cultural experiences, there are so many free things to do in The Tweed for families looking for budget-friendly fun. So pack your bags, grab the kids and get ready for your perfect next getaway – all without breaking the bank!
We wish to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung – Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. We also acknowledge and respect the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lores, customs and traditions.