Agnes Water & 1770, Queensland Sunsets, Surf Beaches & Adventures

Agnes Water & 1770, Queensland

Sunsets, Surf Beaches & Adventures

Located at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, around 520 kilometres north of Brisbane, the neighbouring coastal towns of 1770 and Agnes Water are relaxed, nature-filled holiday destinations perfect for slowing down and soaking up coastal Queensland. With beautiful beaches, national parks, unique tours and easy walking tracks, this region offers an ideal blend of adventure and laid-back seaside charm.

The historic town of 1770 — the only town in the world with a number for a name — is nestled between pristine coastline and protected national park, while Agnes Water is known for its long surf beach, friendly village atmosphere and excellent cafés. Together, they form one of the most scenic and enjoyable stops along Queensland’s coast.

A Week Exploring 1770 & Agnes Water

During our week-long stay, we spent our days wandering coastal trails, enjoying waterfront cafés and discovering the region’s unique attractions. Highlights included visiting the Captain Cook Monument, wandering the peaceful Paperbark Forest Walk, cruising the coastline on a bright pink LARC, sampling an award-winning vanilla slice at the marina and watching unforgettable sunsets over the water.

We also explored the 1770 Headland Walk, browsed local markets, and treated ourselves to delicious small-batch gelato in Agnes Water — the perfect way to end a day by the sea.

Captain Cook Monument & Joseph Banks Park

In Joseph Banks Regional Park, you’ll find the Captain Cook Monument, marking the spot where Lieutenant James Cook anchored the Endeavour in Bustard Bay on 24 May 1770. This was the site of the first European landfall in Queensland, with Joseph Banks coming ashore to collect and study plant specimens — 33 species in total.

The monument is set within a beautiful coastal landscape and offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s historical significance.

Agnes Water Main Beach

Agnes Water Main Beach stretches for around six kilometres and is a favourite spot for swimming, beach walks and surfing. It’s often described as the most northerly surf beach on Australia’s east coast, attracting surfers of all ages and skill levels.

Overlooking the beach is Holidays Café, located within the NRMA Caravan Park. Open for breakfast and lunch, it’s a lovely spot to enjoy coffee, cake or a relaxed meal with ocean views.

The Paperbark Forest Walk

Note: This walk is currently closed for renovations.

The Paperbark Forest Walk is a short but memorable experience. This 400-metre loop track takes around 15 minutes to complete and winds through a dense forest of towering paperbark trees.

Designed with stepping stones and boardwalk sections, the trail allows you to wander through lush undergrowth and admire the distinctive bark textures and peaceful atmosphere of the forest — a lovely contrast to the open beaches nearby.

A LARC Adventure on Land & Water

One of the most unique experiences in the region is a ride aboard the iconic bright pink LARC. On a sunny afternoon, we climbed aboard for a one-hour joyride filled with breathtaking scenery and entertaining commentary.

A LARC (Lighter, Amphibious, Resupply Cargo vehicle) is an aluminium-built craft designed to travel on both land and water. Departing from the marina, the tour drives through town, splashes into the water and cruises across Bustard Bay before continuing along the edge of Eurimbula National Park — a fun and unforgettable way to see the area.

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If you’re after a full-day adventure beyond the one-hour LARC ride, the Full-Day Paradise Tour from 1770 offers an unforgettable way to explore more of this spectacular coastline. On this seven-hour excursion you’ll travel along 27 km of pristine shoreline aboard the iconic amphibious LARC vehicle, stopping to visit the historic Bustard Head Lightstation, climb its tower for panoramic views and enjoy morning tea and a coastal picnic lunch amid stunning scenery.

The tour also includes a chance to sandboard down the towering dunes of Middle Island, hear local history and spot native wildlife as you cruise over land and water — all with engaging commentary from your guide.

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1770 Marina & Sunset Views

The 1770 Marina is the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef and a wonderful place to relax. We enjoyed coffee and an award-winning vanilla slice from the Marina Café while watching boats depart for Lady Musgrave Island and reef fishing trips.

As the day winds down, the marina becomes one of the best sunset spots in the region, with golden light reflecting across the water — a perfect way to end the day.

1770 Headland Walk & Lookouts

From the 1770 Headland car park, several walking tracks lead to scenic lookouts, including Wave Lookout and Bustard Bay Lookout. These short walks reward you with sweeping views over the ocean, rugged headlands and the historic bay where Captain Cook once anchored.

It’s a great spot for photography, whale watching during the season, or simply enjoying the coastal breeze.

Markets, Gelato & Local Treats

The Discovery Coast Rotary Markets are held on the second and fourth Sunday of each month at the SES grounds in 1770. With local produce, food trucks, arts and crafts, they’re a great way to experience the region’s community vibe.

For something sweet, the 1770 Gelato Co in Agnes Water is a must-visit. This local business produces over 30 flavours of premium small-batch gelato, made using Queensland milk and locally sourced ingredients — a perfect treat after a day of exploring.

Why Visit 1770 & Agnes Water?

1770 and Agnes Water offer a rare combination of history, nature and relaxed coastal living. Whether you’re surfing at Agnes Water, cruising the bay on a LARC, walking forest trails, exploring reef islands or simply enjoying sunset views with a slice of cake, this region delivers memorable experiences without the crowds.

It’s the kind of place where days are unhurried, landscapes are spectacular and every sunset feels like a reward — making 1770 and Agnes Water a standout destination on Queensland’s Southern Great Barrier Reef.

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