Yuraygir National Park

Stretching along 65 kilometres of pristine coastline between Coffs Harbour and Yamba, Yuraygir National Park is New South Wales’ largest coastal national park and a sanctuary of untouched beaches, coastal heath, and ancient paperbark swamps. It feels wild and remote, with the constant sound of the Pacific Ocean and the scent of saltbush in the air. This is a place for serious beach lovers and solitude seekers — you can walk for hours without seeing another soul.

Highlights & What to See

• Coastal Walking Track: The 65-kilometre Yuraygir Coastal Walk is the park’s centrepiece — a multi-day trek linking stunning beaches, headlands, and coastal lakes. Even a day-walk section from Shelley Beach to Arrawarra is spectacular.
• Angophora Grove: A hauntingly beautiful stand of ancient angophora trees on the headland at Red Rock — their gnarled, orange trunks are perfect for photography.
• Lake Hiawatha & Lake Arragan: Two large coastal lakes perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, and spotting sea eagles and black swans.
• Watch Out for Whales: Between May and November, humpback whales migrate close to the shore; headlands like Station Creek and Corindi Beach offer prime viewing.
• Pristine Beaches: Shelley Beach, Arrawarra Beach, and Diggers Camp Beach are among the most unspoilt — bring your own shade and water as there are no facilities.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a proper taste of the park, allow at least a full day. If you want to tackle a section of the Coastal Walk, plan for 3–5 hours. Camping overnight at one of the park’s basic campgrounds (like Red Rock or Lake Arragan) is the best way to experience the sunrise over the ocean and the star-filled night sky. Most visitors spend 2–3 days exploring the park’s southern and northern sections.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour — 30 minutes south, with the iconic Big Banana, Muttonbird Island, and great café scene
• Grafton — historic river city famous for its jacaranda trees and heritage architecture, about 45 minutes west
• Yamba — a laid-back coastal town at the park’s northern end, with excellent surf breaks and seafood restaurants
• Solitary Islands Marine Park — offshore islands and reefs great for diving and snorkelling, accessible from Coffs Harbour
• Dorrigo National Park — ancient Gondwana rainforest and waterfalls, about an hour inland, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests

Please check official sources for current details.