Urunga

Urunga is a sleepy coastal town where the Bellinger and Kalang rivers meet the sea, creating a serene landscape of boardwalks, mangroves, and sandy beaches. The town’s laid-back vibe and natural beauty make it a perfect stop for travellers seeking a quiet escape between Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. The famous Urunga Boardwalk is the star attraction, winding through wetlands and offering stunning views of the river mouth and ocean.

Highlights & What to See

• Urunga Boardwalk — a 600-metre elevated walkway through mangroves and saltmarsh, leading to a viewing platform where you can watch pelicans, stingrays, and the occasional dolphin.
• Urunga Beach — a patrolled surf beach with golden sand and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks.
• Hungry Head Nature Reserve — a coastal reserve with walking trails, picnic spots, and a lookout over the ocean; great for birdwatching and spotting whales during migration.
• Bellinger River Cruise — a scenic boat tour through the river system, offering insights into local history, wildlife, and oyster farming.
• Urunga Lagoon — a calm, shallow lagoon perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, with easy access from the boardwalk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough to explore Urunga’s main attractions: walk the boardwalk, relax on the beach, and enjoy a coffee at a local café. If you plan to do the Bellinger River cruise or explore Hungry Head Nature Reserve more thoroughly, allow a full day. Urunga works well as a lunch stop or a quiet overnight stay on a drive between Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour — 30 minutes north, with the Big Banana, beautiful beaches, and the Coffs Harbour Jetty.
• Bellingen — a charming hinterland town 20 minutes inland, known for its arts scene, markets, and the Bellingen River.
• Dorrigo National Park — a World Heritage-listed rainforest with waterfalls and walking trails, about 45 minutes west.
• Nambucca Heads — 15 minutes south, offering the V-Wall art gallery and stunning coastal views.
• Port Macquarie — an hour south, with the Koala Hospital, historic sites, and the Hastings River.

Please check official sources for current details.