Sunset dolphins and sunbaking roos

In true Gen-Y fashion, I've spent most of my life's hard-earned dollars on overseas travel. Nowhere has compared to my hometown of South West Rocks, on the NSW Mid North Coast. I'm talking squeaky soft sand, kangaroos sunbaking in the dunes, beaches hugged by national park, creeks that look like aquariums and dolphins swimming in the river at sunset.

Fish Rock Cave is said to be one of the world's best dives. People travel from all over to swim with the grey nurse sharks. Local divers who have visited many underwater worlds swear that Fish Rock can't be beaten.

The Monument Walk: Start at Little Bay. Once you're done getting cosy with the friendly 'roos, head up the hill and follow the track for aerial views of Little Bay and Trial Bay Gaol, including the heritage-listed ruins.

The Lighthouse: For stunning views of North and South Smoky beaches, stroll up to the lighthouse, and keep an eye out for migrating whales. Make your way down to North Smoky beach where you're welcome to take all your gear off legally and, at low-tide, you can swim out to rock pools.

You can't beat a classic burger from Horseshoe Bay Kiosk. Forget fancy, we're sticking to the "Works Burger" with a sesame bun, sliced beetroot, pineapple and a fried egg, all for eight bucks. Grab a few dollars' worth of hot chips wrapped in butcher's paper and get greasy on the headland. For something a little fancier, book a table on the veranda at Trial Bay Kiosk and treat yourself to a fresh seafood platter with a view.

There are so many holiday houses and campgrounds to choose from in this tourist town (the population about quadruples in peak times). Pitch a tent or "park up" at Horseshoe Bay, Trial Bay Goal or South Smoky Beach for waterfront views, or step back in time at a heritage-listed guesthouse, such as Smoky Cape Lighthouse or the Heritage Guesthouse.

Hands down, the answer is Gap Beach. Accessible by 4WD, the secluded beach is framed by rolling green hills of national park, with crystal-clear water and rolling barrels on most days. I think it's quite possibly the most beautiful beach in Australia.

... seeing a South West Rocks sunset. My two top spots are Trial Bay Gaol, or the Macleay River where you'll almost certainly spot the dolphins swimming past as the sky turns pink. A magical moment you can enjoy with a glass of vino at the Riverside Tavern.

To see "The Rocks" through a local lens, join one of the many Facebook community pages and ask for the hot tips. I'd recommend "South West Rocks ROCKS!". The name says it all.