Hearnes Lake Beach

Near Hearnes Lake Beach, several dining options are available. Bluebottles Brasserie offers a casual atmosphere with great coffee and dessert options, along with a variety of vegetarian dishes. Beachouse Cafe is known for its live performances and healthy food options, catering to families and those working remotely. Seaview Tavern combines dining with entertainment, offering live music and a wide selection of drinks. Ground Earth is another popular spot for coffee, organic dishes, and a cozy atmosphere.

Each restaurant provides a unique dining experience, with a focus on community and local flavors.

For accommodations near Hearnes Lake Beach, Tranquilo Beach House offers a serene holiday home experience. Woolgoolga Coast Motel provides motel-style lodging with amenities like a pool and restaurant. The Seaview Tavern Motel combines accommodation with pub-style dining and entertainment options. Northern Beaches Motor Inn is noted for its location, though it is currently closed.

These options cater to different needs, from relaxed beach houses to more lively motels.

Hearnes Lake Beach offers limited built amenities but compensates with its natural beauty. Visitors often utilize the surrounding areas for picnics and relaxation. However, for restrooms and showers, nearby townships like Woolgoolga provide these facilities. Rental equipment is not readily available on the beach itself, but nearby towns offer such services.

The beach's wild nature makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who prefer less populated areas.

The beach and lake offer a variety of activities. Swimming, surfing, and boogie boarding are popular due to the clear waters. Visitors also enjoy kayaking on Hearnes Lake, which alternates between being open and closed to the ocean. Horseback riding and kite surfing are other notable activities observed at the beach. The nearby Solitary Islands Coastal Walk provides opportunities for hiking and exploring the coastline.

The leash-free policy for dogs adds to the fun, allowing families to enjoy the beach with their pets. The scenic views and diverse water conditions make it a versatile spot for both relaxation and adventure.

While Hearnes Lake Beach itself may not have specific disability-access features like ramps or wheelchair rentals, nearby amenities in Woolgoolga provide better accessibility. Restaurants and accommodations in the area offer wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the broader offerings of the region.

However, direct beach access might require additional planning due to its natural and less developed state.

Parking near Hearnes Lake Beach is primarily along the gravel road leading to the beach, with a few shaded spots closer to the lake. These areas are not marked for specific capacities or fees, but they provide ample space for most visitors. The parking is informal and usually free, with the nearest structured parking options available in the nearby towns.

The access route involves a bit of walking or a short drive down a dirt path to reach the beach.

Hearnes Lake is notable for its unique status as an intermittently closed lake, meaning its connection to the ocean changes seasonally. This fluctuating environment supports a diverse range of wildlife and makes it an interesting spot for nature enthusiasts. The area's stunning views, including Flat Top Point, add to its allure. Visitors often report encounters with wildlife or enjoy the picturesque settings for photography.

The combination of lake and ocean environments also makes it a unique location for exploring various types of flora and fauna.

One of the major attractions near Hearnes Lake Beach is the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk. This 60km trail stretches from Sawtell to Red Rock, offering stunning views of the coastline and opportunities to spot marine life. The walk is part of a larger ecosystem that includes beaches, rainforests, and scenic lookouts. Additionally, the nearby Solitary Islands are a significant marine park with diverse wildlife, accessible by boat tours.

These natural attractions complement the relaxed atmosphere of the beach.