MY Daily News reporter Mairi Manley and photographer Blainey Woodham went to Hastings Point to talk to locals and visitors.

Peter Sloan

Peter Sloan runs Caldera Kayak Experience based at Hastings Point.

"I love this area," he told My Daily News.

"The water systems are unique and it's not overcrowded like the Gold Coast.

"It's also not over-developed as yet, so there's still a sense of the countryside with a range of natural features.

"You can relax without the hustle and bustle of the city and the ecosystem is still reasonably healthy.

"Hastings is very special.

"It has a little bit of everything with its hills, creeks and beautiful seaside features.

"It's a great place to live."

Evan Fisher

EVAN Fisher comes all the way from Brisbane to fish and relax at Hastings Point.

"When I get a few days off I head down this way and stay at Cabarita Beach," he said.

"At this time of year I visit my daughter and family for Christmas.

"I particularly like fishing at Hastings.

"It's a perfect spot to just stand in the water and watch the wildlife and the beautiful waterways.

Mr Fisher has been away from the fishing game for some 10-15 years.

"It's great to sling the hook back in the water again," he said.

"I mainly catch bream, flathead and whiting.

"I don't mind if I don't catch anything.

"I really enjoy the experience."

The Cuff family

HASTINGS Point is the perfect place to bring kids according the Cuff family.

They love the fact that the kids can swim in the shallow lagoon without the worry of waves or a strong current.

The family found a shady tree by the waterside to "set up camp" for the day.

The kids were sun ready with sunscreen and hats.

Way to go!