One Day in Agnes Water & 1770: 14 Choices for Your Itinerary!

Both these small coastal towns in the Gladstone region offers a haven for nature lovers and those seeking adventure. But if you only had one day in Agnes Water & 1770, what would you spend your time seeing?

Having grown up in nearby Bundaberg, I’ve spent many weekends or week-long trips walking through the trails and dipping into the waters of Agnes Water and 1770.

Therefore, today’s list of items involves attractions that are close to town or don’t take a lot of time. So, hopefully, you can round a couple down that suit you and plan for an unforgettable day.

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Itinerary for your One Day in Agnes Water/1770!

Both locations may be chill and laid-back in nature, but Agnes & 10770 offers many different activities that you may not be able to experience in other towns. I’ve never been bored, from beach swimming to relaxing hikes, biking around town, and trying exhilarating water activities.

Quick Activities in Agnes & 1770!

1. Paperbark Forest Boardwalk

If there’s something every visitor has on their Agnes Water-1770 list, it’s the Paperbark Forest Boardwalk. This 400-metre loop track is one of the most Instagramable spots in the area. Particularly the bollard stepping stones that are perfect for some brilliant travel photos.

The Paperbark Forest Boardwalk is in the Reedy Creek Reserve, just 5 minutes from Agnes Water, so you can either drive a car or walk (if you’re really keen).

The trail itself takes just about 10-15 minutes to complete, so it’s a great option for families looking for some light outdoor activities with their kids. 

Matt and I do it on every visit, just to get out in the free air. Plus, I love seeing the texture of the paperbark trees and the mesmerising effect they have on the area.

2. Join a LARC! Tour

Do you want to explore the land and sea in the most exciting and exhilarating way? Then, Try out the LARC like we did! The Lighter Amphibious Resupply Cargo is a vehicle that can be driven on both land and water.

➡  Book your LARC Tour HERE with Viator or HERE with GYG

A full-day tour is highly recommended to explore and experience the area. But if you’re trapped for time on your one day visit in town, then you can join a 1-hour cruise for a taste test. 

This is what we did, and you can explore Round Hill Creek, views of Eurimbula National Park, drive in and out of the water, and step out onto one of the 1770 sand bars.  

3. Explore the Lady Musgrave Island

Most people get to Lady Musgrave Island from Bundaberg, but since it’s closer to Agnes, I prefer to see it from here (with a shorter boat ride).

So, If the Great Barrier Reef is high on your list, then you could use your entire day to visit. 

➡  Book Lady Musgrave tours HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

You need to book the Boat tour, which is a little more cost-effective than flights to Lady Elliot Island and leaves from the 1770 Marina.

Surprisingly, we had an opportunity to snorkel in one of the best underwater sites in the state, swim with turtles, walk through the middle of the Island to see the birdlife, and ride a glass-bottom boat.

I even got to see a reef shark hunting in the shallow waters from the beach. 

4. Visit the Horizons Kangaroo Sanctuary

While you can see plenty of Kangaroos driving the Queensland Coast, sometimes they aren’t too close. But at the Horizons Kangaroo Sanctuary, 9 minutes from the Main Beach, you can witness and interact with the wild animals in their natural habitat.

Aside from wild Aussie kangaroos, wallabies and bush turkeys, this is actually a simple bush campsite. Often, passing visitors will take advantage of a cheap place to stay while also seeing the animals. 

5. Go Swimming at the Main Beach

Compared to other islands on the northern coast of Queensland, it’s relatively safe to swim in the warm waters of Agnes Water.

The Main Beach is patrolled at certain times of the year, so you (or your kids) can take a dip without worries.

To top it all off, there’s a particular area in Agnes Main Beach that allows off-leash pets! So, you can bask in the sun with your furry friend while admiring the turquoise waters.

➡  Compare prices for Agnes Water accommodation HERE with Booking.com

6. Walk Through the Discovery Trail

If you’re up for some hiking that offers stunning scenery, why don’t you check out the Discovery Trail.

This 1.6-kilometre free loop trail takes just about 30 minutes to complete, making it a perfect activity for those looking for a quick exercise.

You can find the entrance of the trail behind the car park of Agnes Water Museum, 1 minute from the town centre. From there, hike up the trail until you reach the lookout point. This lookout point offers an impressive aerial view of Workman’s Beach, which makes a great reward for a short stroll.

Do you need help planning your trip to Queensland? Book a one-on-one consultation call with me, to get your questions answered & personalised help!

7. Hiking the Red Rock Walking Trail.

Is the Discovery Trail too short for you? Then, the Red Rock Walking Trail might be for you.

This 2-hour track is one of the popular trails in the area due to its breathtaking views of the beach and several rocky headlands.

You can find the start of the trail from the small car park, 800 metres opposite the “Reedy Creek Reserve” signage along Springs Road (Near the Paperbark forest). From there, walk straight through the boardwalks and stepping stones until you reach an opening with a stunning view of the coastline. 

And if you’re lucky, you can spot a few turtles and dolphins swimming in the waters!

Tip: Hike during winter months to spot migrating whales, but also better for hiking with very little shade.

8. Learn to Surf at the Main Beach

Another thing that I recommend is to ride the waves of Agnes Water, and there are a lot of visitors who take advantage of this.

Agnes’ Main Beach is considered the most northern surf beach on the East Coast of Australia, making it a perfect place to learn surfing.

And no, it’s not only a haven for pro surfers. Several surf schools such as The Lazy Lizard, offer beginner and kid-friendly surfing sessions. Generally, they would usually take students to secluded beaches, where the waves are significantly smaller and gentler. 

Plus, they provide all the necessary equipment, so all you need to do is hop on your board and dance with the waves!

9. Hire a scooter and roam around both towns.

Agnes Water and 1770 are pretty small towns about a 10-minute drive apart, so this is a two-part activity to find you way between the two, and have some fun doing it.

Therefore, I suggest that you hire a 50cc scooter or an e-bike!

➡  Hire your Scooter HERE with Viator

Roaming both towns on two wheels is very safe and convenient since there’s a bike path beside Captain Cook Drive (the road connecting the toe). So, use it for a half or full day to get yourself around quicker, even if you have your own car. 

10. Go Kayaking

If you really want to take in the beauty of Agnes & 1770 in the best way possible, get your kayak and paddle further to the calm waters.

Depending on your preference, you can use your own kayak, rent one from 1770 Liquid Adventures, or join an organized tour.

This is best experienced during the day when the water is clear, and you can see various marine life below you. Or during sunset, when the orange skies reflect on the waters, giving a warm and therapeutic experience.

11. Try Paddle boarding

Another fun water activity that you should try is paddle boarding.

The only difference between it and kayaking is that instead of sitting down, you stand while paddling (or you can still sit if you can’t get your balance). 

People who want to get some form of exercise in the morning prefer this, and it’s also a great way to explore the inlets and coves of the sand bar. Plus, it’s safe and suitable even for beginners and kids (as long as supervised).

12. Tour the Butterfly Walk

Did you know that butterflies are prevalent ( in season) in the small town of 1770?

You can encounter a few of them while sunbathing on the beach or even on a boat! But for the best experience, I recommend that you go to the famous Butterfly Walk, near Captain Cook Memorial.

From March to May, you can witness tons of blue tiger butterflies beautifully flying between the trees of Butterfly Walk. While you may visit the area any time of the day, it’s best to go there during the day since that’s when most butterflies are out and about.

13. Watch Sunset at 1770

For a relaxing evening, go to 1770 and enjoy a few bevy’s (Drinks) while waiting for the sun to set. This area overlooks the Marina (next to LARC and Lady Musgrave Depot), and where many boat tours also depart.

While you’re busy catching up with your friends, try some of their pizzas, wings, or wedges to fill your stomach. Or I suggest grabbing some fish and chips takeaway from the Rusty Pelican next door. 

14. Have A Picnic by the Beach

For some people, the best way to thoroughly soak in the beauty of the sea is by having a nice, quiet picnic by the beach. Agnes Water and 1770 have pristine beaches where you can sit back and relax for the entire day.

You can do this laid-back activity any time of the day. However, if you want to catch a magnificent view of the horizon, lay your mats on the sand either before sunrise (At Agnes) or sunset (At 1770).

Where to Stay?

I’ve stayed at several different places in Agnes and 1770, but all for various reasons like price, convenience and location. However, I’m sure you can find something to suit your needs with the selection below or search through all on offer. 

➡  Compare prices for accommodation HERE with Booking.com

• Sandcastles Hotel: It is comfortable, spacious, and value for money. I love their late-night drop box if you arrive after reception has closed. 
• Read my Review on the Agnes Water Beach Holidays Resort. It’s a brilliant Caravan Park option positioned right on the beach. We stayed in the cabins there, which were convenient for morning beach walks. 
• Agnes Water Beach Club: It is a short walk to the beach and right next to the local shops for meals, coffee, and snacks. 
• Pavillions On 1770: This is a luxury-style option between Agnes and 1770, with beach access to a less busy section. 
• Edge on the Beaches Resort is another 5-star luxury hotel, and I just love the pool with this one.

Do you need a car in Agnes?

Yes, I do think you need a car, or some other vehicle to get around Agnes Water and 1770 (especially travelling between the two). I guess another option would be to use a push bike, but this is more for exercise and not suitable for a one day itinerary. 

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

As mentioned above, If you don’t have a car, the scooters are a convenient and cost-efficient choice compared to hiring a car. However, this would depend on how many people you have in your group (FYI – a family of 4 I would recommend a car)

Wrap Up!

It’s safe to say that the towns of Agnes Water and 1770 are must-visit destinations that deserve recognition. Whether your there for one day or longer, I’m sure there are tons of activities that will surely satisfy your needs.

These are just two of the many coastal towns that offer fun and unique experiences along the coast of Queensland. Therefore, if you want to see what other nearby places and islands have to offer, read some more of my Queensland travel guides.

• Best Place to Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
• Is Hervey Bay worth visiting & the Best Things to do
• 10 Day Brisbane to Airlie Beach Road Trip Stops, Itinerary & Map
• Things to do in Rainbow Beach
• Exposing the Downsides to a Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Tour
• Things to do in Bundaberg that are worth visiting?
• Tips to know BEFORE planning a Queensland Road Trip