Bookmarking the southern end of the scenic Tweed Coast is a once-sleepy village where locals greet each other by name and community spirit runs deep. Now humming with energy, Pottsville is home to thriving businesses and families seeking a slice of paradise. As the birthplace of LOCALE Magazine, this picturesque town is also the wellspring of inspiration that drives us to capture the beauty and wonder of regional living.
WRITTEN BY DONNA RISHTON-POTTER
HISTORY
Families have long been drawn to Pottsville’s idyllic location, perfectly situated between the Gold Coast, Byron Bay and the lush Tweed hinterland. Set on the banks of the sparkling Mooball Creek, Pottsville is a town rich in history and natural beauty. Originally a tea tree swamp within the Bundjalung Nation, its abundant resources - fish, shellfish and diverse wildlife – sustained and fostered strong connections among neighbouring Indigenous communities for generations.
In the 1920s, Archibald “Bill” Potts and his wife, May, acquired 54 acres here, naming their home overlooking the creek “Elanora”- now Pottsville’s enviable beachfront avenue. While the town was first known as Potts Point, the name was later updated to avoid confusion with its Sydney counterpart, officially establishing Pottsville’s distinct identity on the Tweed Coast.
Today, Pottsville retains its charm, honouring its historical roots while embracing newcomers who share a passion for coastal living.
STAY
For those coming to visit, Pottsville offers a range of welcoming accommodations. Tweed Holiday Parks operates two family-friendly sites with options for camping, Surfari-style glamping and cosy cabins. For a more traditional stay, Pottsville Beach Motel, features updated amenities, a pool and a convenient location in the heart of town. All accommodations are close to the beach, the creek and the shops, perfect for soaking up Pottsville’s laid-back coastal atmosphere.
EAT
A stroll through town reveals a thriving dining scene that has blossomed in recent years. Pipit, the town’s Hatted restaurant, has placed Pottsville firmly on the culinary map, drawing foodies from all over for a taste of Chef Ben Devlin’s innovative, locally inspired dishes that celebrate the region’s seasonal produce.
Across the road, Betel Delicate, a long-standing favourite, satisfies Thai cravings with authentic plates bursting with flavour, while the small-but-mighty, Izakaya Potts serves up Japanese fare that rivals the region’s best for freshness and taste. For casual vibes, the Pottsville Sports Club draws in the bowling crew and hosts a raucous Thursday night trivia, while Baker and Farmer is the spot for Friday afternoon margaritas. Café by day, bar by night, it’s our team’s go-to for celebrating each new LOCALE issue hitting the stands.
For a more laid-back bite, the town’s two pizzerias and fish and chip shops are tried-and-true Friday night staples. Grab your takeaway and head up to the headland for one of life’s simple pleasures - enjoying a relaxed meal, and maybe even a whale sighting, under the sunset’s painted sky.
Cafés are the lifeblood of small towns and Pottsville doesn’t disappoint. Corner Stop, Two Brothers and Black Drop buzz each morning with regulars catching up over sticky chai’s or perfectly brewed flat whites. Newer to the scene, Hummingbird Bakery & Gelato tempts even the most disciplined with its fresh-out-of-the-oven baked treats, like loaded Nutella-filled doughnuts, that have the weekend crowds queueing for something sweet.
PLAY
Pottsville may not be a shopping mecca, but that’s how we like it. Dune Designs and Homewares - the town’s sole boutique - satisfies our fashion needs, drawing both locals and tourists with a curation of our favourite labels.
Outdoors, however, is where Pottsville shines. With abundant natural beauty and recreational spaces, it calls to lovers of the sun and sea. Surf culture is strong here, with local beaches offering reliable waves year-round and surfers savouring the beauty of less crowded breaks along the coastline.
Fishing is also a local favourite; Mooball Creek, a prime spot for catching flathead, whiting and bream, is accessible even without a boat. The creek’s tidal nature making it ideal for wading and fishing from sandbanks, while cheeky pelicans wait nearby for an expectant feed. Nature lovers also have much to explore - from the serene walking trails of Pottsville Environmental Park to birdwatching spots along the coastline.
Ambrose Brown Park is a hub for community gatherings, especially during summer. Here, families barbecue under shady trees, kids play in the playground and community events are hosted. On any given evening, you’ll also find the local sports fields alive with rugby, cricket, soccer and tennis, while the community hall thrums with dancers. And every second Sunday, the town comes together for Pottsville Markets, a lively buzz of stalls offering fresh produce, crafts and unique wares, capturing the town’s warm community vibe.
Just a short drive away, Hastings Point Headland offers yet another beautiful vista. With views that stretch up and down the coastline, this spot has called to many - Hollywood filmmakers included - for its glorious outlook and tropical vibes. Popular with the campervan crowd, surfers scouting for waves, and picnicking families gathering to take in (in my humble opinion) one of the country’s most stunning outlooks.
But want to know one of Potty’s best kept secrets? It’s the magic of the estuary - fondly called “The Creek” by locals. A crystal-clear oasis where the white sand and turquoise waters invite hours of relaxation and play. At high tide, the creek becomes a postcard-worthy paradise, alive with kayakers, paddle boarders and locals floating along the refreshing current - a perfect remedy for humid summer days.
In Pottsville, life isn’t complicated; it’s a tapestry of beach days, community spirit, and simple pleasures that remind us of what matters most.
Comments