Agnes Waters. Central Coast, Queensland

Most of the local residents in Agnes Water feel like they’re living their dream vacation every day of the year. That’s because this beautiful resort town has all the attractions and facilities that a vacationer needs--sunny weather, pristine beaches, proximity to several national parks, affordable accommodations, and friendly locals.

This area has long been a favorite destination of surfers who take joy in riding the waves of Agnes Water and bask in the warm sun. In fact, the annual 1770 Longboard Classic is held here every year. Canoeing, kayaking, and scuba diving are also popular past times. Most families, however, just prefer to swim and play in the area’s shallow beaches and gather shells on the shore. Fishing and crabbing are also popular alternatives for enjoying the beach life to the fullest. Visitors can also visit the dugong sanctuary nearby, or schedule their visits to coincide with the nesting and hatching of turtles during October to March, or go whale watching during the winter months. Deep sea fishing enthusiasts will also have a good time in Agnes Water, and there are several boats for hire for wishing to visit the famous Great Barrier Reef.

Land-based activities include bird watching, hiking, and exploring the nearby forested areas. Agnes Water is right beside the Eurimbla National Park, the Sir Joseph Banks Conservation Park, and the coastal Deepwater National Park. Further inland, one could go and visit the national parks in Mt. Colloseum, Mt. Castle Tower, Mt. Stanley, and at Kroombit Tops. Most visitors rent 4WD vehicles to visit these destinations and end up having the time of their lives while driving off roads. The scenery along the way is also uniquely beautiful and distinctly found only in Agnes Water. For those preferring to go about in a more sedate pace, they can go bushwalking or mountain climbing, following nature trails within and surrounding Agnes Water.

Visitors also take time to visit the local museum that showcases items related to the community’s past. There are also several interesting architectural structures in the area. Facilities for horse riding, golf, and bicycling can also be found in Agnes Water.

To maximize their enjoyment, visitors can also go explore several neighboring attractions, like making a trip to the Bustard Head lighthouse. There are also several noteworthy tourist destinations in the nearby Town of 1170 and the town of Miriam Vale.

There is never a shortage of accommodations in and around Agnes Water. On Bicentennial Drive is the 1770 Getaway, while Cool Bananas Backpackers Lodge is located on Springs Road. Several other hotels and resorts are clustered along Captain Cook Drive. On Agnes Water Beach Club, apartment-style accommodations are available. Families and groups of friends will be comfortable in large units offered at the Ocean Beach Resort, where each unit has its own garden. Luxurious rooms are also available at the Edge on Beaches Resort. Most of these hotels and resorts offer services for enjoying the beach and the nearby parks to the fullest, like the availability of boats, diving equipment, and 4WD vehicles.