Photo: PD
Angourie is a sleepy coastal hamlet just south of Yamba that punches well above its weight in natural beauty and surf culture. This is where the bush meets the beach – think turquoise rock pools, rainforest-fringed coves, and one of Australia’s most famous right-hand point breaks. It’s a place to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and feel a world away from the crowds.
Highlights & What to See
- Angourie Point – Legendary surf break that peels perfectly over a boulder reef. Even if you don’t surf, the headland offers stunning views and whale-watching in season.
- Blue & Green Pools – Two idyllic natural swimming holes carved into the rock platform. The Blue Pool is deep and vivid; the Green Pool is shallower and warmer. Both are perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Angourie Rainforest Reserve – A short boardwalk loop through towering cabbage tree palms and ancient figs, leading to a secluded beach. Keep an eye out for brush turkeys and goannas.
- Spooky Beach – A wild, exposed stretch of sand at the southern end of the headland, great for beachcombing and watching the waves pound the cliffs.
- Lake Hiawatha & Lake Arragan – Coastal lakes just north of town, ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and a peaceful paddle away from the surf.
Suggested Time to Spend
Angourie is a half-day or full-day detour from Yamba or a longer stop if you’re a surfer or nature lover. Most visitors spend 2–4 hours exploring the rock pools, rainforest walk, and the point. If you’re keen to surf the point or linger on the beach, plan for a full day – pack a picnic and make a lazy afternoon of it. It’s a perfect lunch stop on a road trip between Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Yamba – Just 5 minutes north, with excellent cafes, a historic lighthouse, and the family-friendly Main Beach.
- Iluka – A ferry ride across the Clarence River, home to the World Heritage-listed Iluka Nature Reserve with its ancient rainforest and walking trails.
- Bundjalung National Park – Stretching along the coast south of Angourie, offering remote beaches, coastal heath walks, and the iconic ‘Gumma’ Aboriginal cultural site.
- Clarence River – Australia’s largest coastal river system, perfect for fishing, kayaking, or a scenic cruise from Yamba or Iluka.
- Yuraygir National Park – A stunning coastal park to the north with long walks, wild beaches, and excellent birdwatching.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Yamba — Armistej at English Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Iluka — Graham Cook / CC BY 2.0
- Bundjalung National Park — Quartl / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Clarence River — Public domain
- Yuraygir National Park — Michael Munich / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Port Macquarie — Inas / CC0