Yuraygir National Park

Stretching along the coast between Coffs Harbour and Yamba, Yuraygir National Park is a wild and beautiful stretch of protected coastline. This is classic North Coast NSW: long sandy beaches broken by rocky headlands, coastal heathland, and pockets of rainforest. It's a haven for walkers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to experience the raw beauty of the Australian coast without the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Coastal Walk: The Yuraygir Coastal Walk is the park's standout experience – a multi-day trek from Angourie to Red Rock, but you can also do shorter sections. The track winds through heath, past dramatic sea cliffs, and along pristine beaches.
• Angourie Point: A world-class surf break and a great spot for watching surfers. The adjacent Angourie Blue and Green Pools are former quarries now filled with crystal-clear water, perfect for a refreshing dip.
• Brooms Head: A laid-back coastal village with a beautiful beach, headland walks, and a chance to spot migrating whales (June–November).
• Lake Arragan: A stunning coastal lagoon popular for swimming, kayaking, and birdwatching. The campground here is one of the best in the park.
• Red Rock: Named for the distinctive red-coloured rock formation at its northern end, this is a great place for a walk and a picnic with sweeping ocean views.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for kangaroos, goannas, and a huge variety of birds – including the endangered little tern and the striking rainbow bee-eater.

Suggested Time to Spend

To really appreciate Yuraygir, give it at least a full day. If you're keen on walking, two or three days allows you to tackle sections of the Coastal Walk and explore the quieter beaches. The park is easy to visit as a day trip from Coffs Harbour or Yamba, but staying overnight at one of the campgrounds (like Lake Arragan or Brooms Head) lets you experience the stunning sunrises and the sound of the ocean at night.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Yamba: A charming coastal town at the mouth of the Clarence River, known for its great surf, excellent cafes, and relaxed vibe.
• Grafton: A historic city on the Clarence River, famous for its jacaranda trees and heritage architecture – especially lovely in late spring.
• Coffs Harbour: A major regional centre with the popular Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden, the Big Banana, and easy access to the Solitary Islands Marine Park.
• Woolgoolga: A laid-back beach town with a strong Sikh community – don't miss the Guru Nanak Sikh Temple and the excellent curries.
• Dorrigo National Park: Part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, offering lush rainforest walks and stunning waterfalls – a complete contrast to the coastal park.

Please check official sources for current details.