Wooli

Wooli is a sleepy coastal hamlet on the NSW North Coast that feels like a secret shared only with surfers, anglers, and nature lovers. With its pristine beach, the Wooli Wooli River estuary, and the untamed Yuraygir National Park as a backdrop, this is a place where you trade crowds for quiet, and where the biggest decision of the day is whether to paddle out or cast a line. It's the perfect reset button on a self-drive itinerary between Coffs Harbour and Yamba.

Highlights & What to See

• Wooli Beach – A stunning, unpatrolled stretch of sand that's a magnet for surfers (especially around the river mouth) and long beach walks. The waves here are consistent and less crowded than spots further south.
• Wooli Wooli River – A peaceful estuary perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or fishing for bream and flathead. Hire a kayak from the Wooli Riverfront Caravan Park or launch your own.
• Yuraygir National Park – The park hugs the coast north and south of Wooli, offering excellent walking trails, coastal heath, and secluded beaches like Station Creek and Minnie Water. The Yuraygir Coastal Walk passes through here – a multi-day trek, but day walks are rewarding.
• Solitary Islands Marine Park – Offshore, this protected area is a haven for marine life. Snorkelling and diving trips run from Wooli (weather permitting), with chances to see turtles, rays, and colourful fish around the islands.
• Wooli General Store & Café – The heart of the village, serving great coffee, fish and chips, and essential supplies. Grab a pie and sit on the verandah watching the world go by.

Suggested Time to Spend

Wooli is best savoured over 2–3 days. Spend your first day exploring the beach and river – a morning surf or kayak followed by a lazy afternoon with a book. Dedicate a full day to Yuraygir National Park: pick a coastal walk (the Angophora Grove Walk from Wooli is a short, scenic loop) or drive to Illaroo Campground for a picnic. If you're a keen angler or diver, factor in a half-day charter. Wooli is tiny, so it's also a great stopover for a single night on a road trip – but you'll likely wish you'd stayed longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Grafton – The historic city on the Clarence River, famous for its jacaranda trees and heritage architecture. 30 minutes inland.
• Yamba – A vibrant coastal town with fantastic surf, a lively café scene, and the iconic Yamba Lighthouse. 40 minutes north.
• Red Rock – A quiet coastal village with a dramatic headland and a beautiful lagoon. 20 minutes south, ideal for a beachside walk.
• Coffs Harbour – Major regional centre with the Big Banana, the Botanic Garden, and great dining. 1 hour south.
• Yuraygir National Park (northern section) – Explore the park further around Brooms Head and the stunning Lake Arragan. 30 minutes north.

Please check official sources for current details.