Bundjalung National Park

Stretching along the northern New South Wales coast, Bundjalung National Park is a wild and wonderfully diverse slice of Australia where ancient rainforest, heathland, and long sandy beaches collide. Named after the local Bundjalung people, this park offers a genuine escape into nature without the crowds of more famous reserves. Whether you’re paddling a kayak up the winding Esk River, spotting sea eagles above the dunes, or simply sinking your toes into the pristine sands of Ten Mile Beach, Bundjalung feels like a secret waiting to be discovered.

Highlights & What to See

• Ten Mile Beach – A spectacular, near-empty stretch of golden sand perfect for long walks, beach fishing, and watching the sunrise paint the ocean gold.
• Esk River Canoe Trail – Paddle through mangrove-lined channels and floodplain forests; keep an eye out for ospreys, pelicans, and maybe even a dolphin.
• Black Rocks – Ancient volcanic headlands that create dramatic rock pools and lookout points; a prime spot for whale watching between June and November.
• Bundjalung Rainforest Walk – A short boardwalk trail through lush littoral rainforest, with towering figs, cabbage tree palms, and the calls of wompoo fruit-doves.
• Iluka Bluff – A coastal lookout offering panoramic views over the Pacific and the mouth of the Clarence River; particularly stunning at sunset.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly absorb Bundjalung’s coastal and riverine landscapes, plan for at least a full day. Start with an early morning walk on Ten Mile Beach, then spend the middle of the day paddling the Esk River Canoe Trail or exploring the rainforest walk. If you’re keen on fishing or birdwatching, an overnight stay at one of the park’s basic campgrounds lets you experience the dawn chorus and star-filled skies. For a relaxed visit, a half-day focusing on the beach and Black Rocks still rewards.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Iluka – A charming coastal village at the park’s edge, with a historic jetty, seafood takeaways, and access to the Iluka Nature Reserve.
• Yamba – A laid-back surf town with excellent cafés, boutique shops, and the iconic Yamba Lighthouse; perfect for a post-park coffee.
• Clarence River – One of Australia’s great coastal rivers, ideal for fishing, boating, and exploring the river towns of Ulmarra and Grafton.
• Yuraygir National Park – A less-visited coastal park to the south, with dramatic headlands, coastal lagoons, and the longest coastal walk in NSW.
• Angourie – Famous for its pristine surf breaks and the Blue Pool, a natural rock pool surrounded by bushland.

Please check official sources for current details.