Best things to do in South West Rocks

Find out what makes a World Heritage Area special at Parque Nacional de Dorrigo, part of Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. The park includes significant habitats of native animals and is of outstanding ecological value. Visit the park’s Rainforest Center to see interactive displays on this rare rain forest environment. The center’s staff can guide you through the story of the rain forest's evolution and provide insight into the animal and plant species that call it their home. The park also contains several trails allowing hikers to access a number of pristine waterfalls. Another notable feature is the Skywalk, an elevated walkway through and above the treetops, providing visitors with convenient spots to observe the local bird life.

Located at the end of the north pointing peninsula on the eastern side of Trial Bay, Trial Bay Gaol is a protected wildlife area with a stunning lookout over the water. Consider camping on the point's beach where the National Parks and Wildlife Service operates a campground. Divide your visit between Trial Bay Gaol's natural wonders and the manmade Trial Gaol, an impenetrable prison that held Australia's most notorious criminals in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The prison was expensive to run, so building projects there were abandoned in 1903. Nowadays you can visit the impressive granite structure and view the cells that once housed the accused at the Trial Gaol Museum.

Perched on a granite plateau at 140 m (460 ft) above sea level, the light of Smoky Cape Lighthouse is the highest in town. This lighthouse is still in operation and lights up the coastline nightly. During daylight hours, the lighthouse is open for tours of its historic building, a treat for any maritime enthusiast. Consider renting a room at the former lighthouse keeper's cottage that's converted into a bed and breakfast. Supplement your lighthouse tour with hikes in the surrounding national park, where you'll find breathtaking views over the water and an array of local flora and fauna.

The Dangar Falls is a cascade waterfall located across the Bielsdown River about 1.2 km (0.7 mi) north of Dorrigo in the New England region of New South Wales, Australia. The falls are small, picturesque, and are a popular photographic subject. For a short time after rain, they are quite spectacular. There is an attractive picnic spot which offers excellent views. It is possible to climb down the banks and walk along the river below the water falls.

In the past, the waterhole has been the scene of several tragic accidents. Despite warning signs from the local council, the 30-metre high falls remain a popular jumping spot for tourists. In 2012, a 19-year-old German tourist died after jumping from the falls with her friends.

Ebor Falls is a tiered waterfall on the Guy Fawkes River, located near Ebor and about 37 kilometres (23 mi) north-east of Wollomombi on Waterfall Way in the New England region of New South Wales, Australia.