Mon Repos is just a 10 minute drive from Bargara where you’ll find a number of spots to eat and drink. 

Our morning coffee spot quickly became The Windmill Bargara. Perched just back from the Esplanade, it’s a brilliant spot for sitting back and enjoying some people watching. With a relaxed coastal vibe and a delicious breakfast menu, it’s a nice way to ease into the day.

For something casual with coastal views, Rick’s at Bargara is our go-to for lunch or an easy dinner. We sat outside on a balmy afternoon and ordered an open-grill focaccia, watching seabirds wheel overhead. On Friday and Saturday nights, Rick’s transforms into a more elevated restaurant, complete with a full dinner menu and a decent wine selection.

For relaxed pub vibes, Bargara Lakes Tavern is the place to unwind. With a family-friendly bistro, a solid tap list, and space indoors and out, it’s a top choice after a day exploring. We dropped in for a casual dinner — schnitzel, beer and a friendly local conversation. We ended up staying late into the evening, hanging out on the deck.

If you feel like eating in, Turtle Sands has a fully equipped camp kitchen and an onsite kiosk for essentials (open 8am - 6pm daily). 

The park itself is a destination. From November to March, Mon Repos beach comes alive with nesting and hatching turtles, and staying at Turtle Sands means you’re right behind the dunes. We joined a guided evening tour with the rangers and watched tiny hatchlings make their way to the ocean under the moonlight — a moment that stays with you long after the holiday ends. 

Beyond the tour, the Mon Repos Turtle Centre is well worth a visit. The interactive displays dive into the science and history of turtle conservation, and the volunteers are always ready to share their knowledge. It’s family-friendly and helps you appreciate just how special this stretch of sand really is.

For a change of pace, we loved heading onto the Bargara Esplanade. It’s only a few minutes drive from the park and makes a perfect outing for a walk along the foreshore, an ocean swim, or just an ice cream stop. The vibe is relaxed and beach-holiday classic.

If you’ve got a half-day to spare, a trip inland to the Bundaberg Rum Distillery is a must. The distillery tour walks you through the history of Australia’s most iconic spirit, and of course there’s a tasting room at the end. It’s not just for rum lovers — the storytelling and heritage make it an engaging outing for anyone curious about the region’s culture.

Cabins and sites near the dunes use low or shielded lighting. It’s all by design to keep the beachfront as dark as possible so hatchlings can find their way to the ocean naturally.