Last verified 03/26
Norah Head is a coastal village on the northern Central Coast. It sits between Soldiers Beach and Lakes Beach, about 20 minutes north of The Entrance.
The historic lighthouse is the main attraction. You can also explore rock pools, swim at nearby beaches and watch for whales during migration season.
This guide covers the best things to do in Norah Head and how to plan your visit.
Is Norah Head Worth Visiting?
- Best for: Lighthouse tours, whale watching and coastal walks
- Great if you want: Beaches and ocean views away from busier towns
- Not ideal for: Shopping, nightlife or visiting without a car
Norah Head is worth visiting for its lighthouse and coastal setting. Allow at least half a day to explore the headland and nearby beaches.
What Norah Head Is Like
Norah Head sits on a rocky headland between Soldiers Beach and Cabbage Tree Harbour.
The lighthouse stands at the eastern end of the headland. A small village centre sits farther inland near Bungary Road.
The area is mostly residential. Beaches, walks and the lighthouse are the main reasons to visit.
Visit Norah Head Lighthouse
Norah Head Lighthouse began operating in 1903. It remains one of the Central Coast’s most recognisable landmarks.
Guided tours take you up 96 stairs to the top of the 27-metre tower. You’ll learn about the lighthouse and get 360-degree coastal views.
Tours usually operate between 10am and 1.30pm when weather permits.
Coastal Views and Whale Watching
You don’t need to climb the lighthouse to enjoy the views.
Paths and grassy areas around the reserve overlook the ocean and nearby beaches. Whales pass the coast between May and November.
Bring binoculars during the migration season. Late June and July are often the best months for northbound whales.
Swim at Soldiers Beach
Soldiers Beach is the main surf beach at Norah Head.
It’s a 900-metre beach with strong surf and several rips. Swim between the flags when patrols are operating.
Parking, toilets, showers and a kiosk sit near the surf club.
Visit Cabbage Tree Harbour and Rockpool
Cabbage Tree Harbour sits on the northern side of the headland.
The small beach faces into a natural harbour and is more sheltered than Soldiers Beach. An ocean rockpool sits beside the boat ramp.
Parking is limited near the harbour, so the area can become busy on warm weekends.
Walk Around Norah Head Lighthouse
The Norah Head Lighthouse Loop Walk is 2.5 kilometres.
The grade-four route takes about one hour and 15 minutes. It passes the lighthouse, rock platform and nearby beach areas.
The track includes steps and uneven coastal sections. Wear shoes with good grip.
Explore Nearby Towns and Beaches
Soldiers Beach
A beautiful surf beach known for its wide sand, powerful waves and natural setting.
The Entrance
A popular waterfront town known for pelican feeding, family attractions and Tuggerah Lake views.
Canton Beach
A quiet lakeside village popular for sunsets, fishing and walks beside Tuggerah Lake.
Where to Eat & Drink
Norah Head has several cafés and restaurants near Bungary Road, Soldiers Beach and Cabbage Tree Harbour.
Norah Head Beach Haus is close to the rockpool. Surfside Snax and Dunes by Dish overlook Soldiers Beach.
The listings below show more places to eat in Norah Head.
Where to Stay in Norah Head
Reflections Norah Head Lighthouse has three historic lighthouse keeper cottages. Each cottage sleeps up to nine guests.
NRMA Norah Head Holiday Park has cabins, villas, caravan sites and camping sites. It also has a pool, splash area, playground and jumping pillow.
You’ll also find private holiday homes around Norah Head and Noraville.
How to Spend a Day in Norah Head
Start at Norah Head Lighthouse and join a morning tour if one is available.
Walk around the headland before stopping at Cabbage Tree Harbour and the rockpool.
Have lunch nearby. Then spend the afternoon swimming or walking at Soldiers Beach.
Between May and November, return to the headland for whale watching.
How to Get to Norah Head
By Car
Norah Head is about one hour and 45 minutes north of Sydney via the M1.
Parking is available near the lighthouse at the end of Bush Street. Soldiers Beach has another car park near the surf club.
Spaces near the lighthouse and rockpool can fill on warm weekends.
By Train and Bus
Take a train to Wyong Station. From there, use the Transport for NSW Trip Planner to find buses through Lake Haven or Toukley.
Route 91 travels between Lake Haven and Norah Head. Services are limited, so the area is much easier to explore by car.
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