1770 & Agnes Water
Tell a FriendQUEENSLAND’S HIDEAWAY
The town of 1770 is aptly named for the year in which British soldiers led by Captain Cook stepped ashore here, and centuries later you’d think that the local tribesman would be inundated with tourists and European descendants galore. That, however, is definitely not the case; 1770, along with the nearby town of Agnes Water are as far away from tourist mobs as you can get in this beautiful part of Central Queensland. Literally
SURFING
Agnes Water & 1770 are perfect places for you to get into the phenomenon that is surfing. The beaches up and down the coastline are all patrolled, and there’s good swell throughout its 5km, though particularly good breaks can be found at Agnes Point. Funny enough, the shoreline isn’t the only place you can find fantastic surfing; there are world-class waves all the way out on the Great Barrier Reef, and there are boat trips out there to take advantage of these waves too, though they’re also great ways to go fishing, diving, and snorkelling instead.
1770 in particular is home to a much newer kind of surfing that allows you to access the power of the wind. With kite surfing, you can glide through the water on a small surfboard or wakeboard with only the power of the wind to help you along with way. 1770’s wide-open peninsula, reasonably sized waves and large gusts of wind make the waters just off the shore a perfect place to try out one of the ocean’s craziest new experiences.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
LARC TOURS
Usually used in military operations, LARC vehicles are also used in 1770 to give the perfect mix of a land and sea tour. You’ll be able to see fantastic and isolated Bustard Head Lighthouse within Eurimbula National Park. Sure, it’ll feel like you’re part of the A-Team, but it’s still lots of fun!
LARC! Paradise Tour, with views of Bustard Head Lighthouse.
SURFING
Surfing is the machine that keeps 1770 and Agnes Water alive. If you’re a novice, then head to the surfing schools in Agnes Water, but if you’re more of a pro, then any part of the coastline will be just fine. You can even take a trip out to sea for some Great Barrier Reef surfing.
SOMEWHERE TO STAY
Agnes Water is a great place to stay if you want to spend a few days in the area, for it houses an astonishing amount of backpacker accommodations for such a small town. Most are themed around relaxation, so don’t be surprised if the hostel you book comes included with a medication room or a yoga centre, and reception can help you with a variety of needs.
CENTRAL QUEENSLAND
QLD
CAPRICORN COAST: Rockhampton & Gladstone | Town of 1770 & Agnes Water
WHITSUNDAY COAST: Whitsunday Islands | Airlie Beach | Mackay
The headstone marking Captain Cook's landing point.
One of many scooter tours that visit the area.
Kite surfing - taking surfing to the next level.
