Clarence River

The Clarence River is the largest river system on Australia’s east coast north of the Hawkesbury, and it’s a stunning waterway that defines the landscape around Grafton and Yamba. With its wide, slow-moving channels, lush riverbanks, and abundant wildlife, the Clarence offers a classic Australian river experience—think kayaking through serene backwaters, fishing for bass and bream, or simply drifting along on a houseboat. The river is also steeped in Indigenous heritage, with the Yaegl people having lived along its banks for thousands of years. For travellers, it’s a place to slow down, connect with nature, and explore charming riverside towns.

Highlights & What to See

• Houseboat hire on the Clarence – Self-drive houseboats are the quintessential way to explore the river; you can moor at secluded spots, swim, fish, and watch the sunset over the water.
• Yamba – A laid-back coastal town at the river mouth, with beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, and excellent seafood at the Yamba Fishermen’s Co-op.
• Grafton – Known for its heritage streetscapes and jacaranda trees (blooming in October/November), Grafton is the river’s main hub; visit the Clarence River Historical Society Museum and stroll along the riverfront.
• Ulmarra – A tiny, photogenic village with a historic ferry and a lovely pub; great for a quick stop or a riverside lunch.
• Kayaking and canoeing – Paddle through the river’s quieter channels, especially around the Wooloweyah Lagoon and the lower reaches, where you’ll see pelicans, black swans, and maybe a sea eagle.
• Fishing – The Clarence is famous for its fishing; try your luck for flathead, bream, or the legendary Clarence River prawns.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the Clarence River, plan 2–3 days. This gives you time to hire a houseboat for an overnight trip (or at least a full day on the water), explore both Yamba and Grafton, and enjoy a few leisurely meals. If you’re short on time, a day trip from Coffs Harbour or Ballina can cover a drive to Grafton, a short river cruise, and a stop in Yamba, but you’ll miss the deeper immersion.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Yuraygir National Park – Stunning coastal national park with walking trails, secluded beaches, and great birdwatching; accessible from Yamba.
• Coffs Harbour – About an hour south, with the iconic Big Banana, beautiful beaches, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.
• Nymboida River – For white-water rafting and canoeing in a wilder setting, about an hour west of Grafton.
• Iluka Nature Reserve – A World Heritage-listed rainforest at the river mouth, with walking trails through ancient palms and mangroves.
• Ballina – A coastal town north of the river, known for its Big Prawn and the Richmond River; combine with a visit to the nearby Cape Byron Lighthouse.

Please check official sources for current details.