The Beaches
Bargara's coastline offers a combination of rocky headlands, with fringing coral reefs and patrolled white sandy beaches. For a totally wild experience, head to the beaches at Bargara after dark from around November to March. Turtles often nest at Kelly's and Nielson Park Beaches, and their nocturnal travels provide a fascinating experience for beach goers.
Nielson's Park Beach to the north, is home to the local surf life saving club, offering a safe swimming environment, without stingers. Facilities include a tree shaded park with playground facilities for the kids, a kiosk and a sheltered BBQ area.
Bargara’s main beach lies directly in front of the main shopping village and features the local boat ramp. The shore is protected by the spectacular Burkitt’s Reef, which stretches about a mile off the southern headland. The reef is part of the Woongarra Marine Park, and it’s variety of coral formation and aquatic life has been rated as Queensland’s premier shore diving location. Bathroom facilities are available in the nearby park, and the sheltered esplanade boasts picnic and BBQ facilities, boasting a superb view of the coastline and the Coral Sea.
To the south of Bargara, Kelly's Beach is the largest in the area, featuring a sheltered rock pool, ‘The Basin’, which is ideal for the children and less confident swimmers. The beach is fringed with park areas that boast, toilets, showers and BBQ facilities.
To the south of the Kelly’s beach lagoon, separated by a rocky stretch, Archie's Beach is the local surf beach, frequented by surfers and bodyboarders.
The beaches around Agnes Water are exactly what you would expect from a sub-tropical paradise. Secluded coves and inlets, the broad expanse of Bustard Bay, and numerous clean white sandy beaches fringed with rocky headlands, Agnes Water and 1770 is alive with natural beauty.
Agnes Water is home to the most northern surf beach in Australia, a picturesque spot with excellent surf breaks and no crowds. Each March Surfers converge on the area for the Sunrise at 1770 Longboard Surfing Classic. The main beach at Agnes Water offers safe swimming with lifesaver s patrolling in the peak periods.
If you head south, there are numerous surf beaches hidden in the spectacular Deepwater National park, and accessible only by four wheel drive. You will come across the anchor from the 'MV Countess Russell' which came aground in 1873, on what has become known as Wreck Rock.
As you head north toward Bustard Head, you will discover more secluded beaches, perfect for surfers. One of the great natural wonders of this stretch of coastline occurs when the turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, between November and January. Round Hill Head is a popular place to watch the sun set over Bustard Bay, one of the few places in Queensland where the sun sets over the water. Positioned on the estuary of Round Hill Creek, the town of 1770 rests on the sheltered waters, and is home to the local Marina. Offering chartered trips and tours, and for those who'd rather let others haul in the catch - a short walk to restaurants, the marina is the heart of this small town.
