Urunga

Urunga is a sleepy coastal town where the calm waters of the Kalang and Bellinger Rivers meet the Pacific Ocean. This is a place for those who love serene water views, long boardwalks, and a slow-paced fishing-village vibe. The town’s heart is a beautiful timber boardwalk that winds over the river and wetlands, offering a front-row seat to the daily dance of tides and birdlife.

Highlights & What to See

• Urunga Boardwalk – A 560-metre wooden boardwalk that curves over the river and mangroves, leading to a viewing platform at the river mouth. It’s perfect for a sunset stroll or an early-morning birdwatch – look for ospreys, pelicans, and sea eagles.
• Urunga Lagoon – A peaceful, shallow lagoon ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply floating. The calm waters reflect the sky and surrounding hills.
• Hungry Head Nature Reserve – A short walk north of town takes you to a secluded beach and a headland with panoramic views of the coast. The reserve protects coastal heath and is a great spot for whale watching (June–November).
• Bellinger River Ferry – A free cable ferry crosses the Bellinger River just south of town. It’s a charming, old-school way to get to the other side and explore the rural landscapes.
• Fishing and Crabbing – The rivers and estuary are rich with flathead, bream, and mud crabs. Locals swear by the fishing off the boardwalk or from a tinny.

Suggested Time to Spend

Urunga is a half-day stop that can easily stretch into a full day if you’re in the mood to paddle or fish. Most visitors spend two to three hours walking the boardwalk, grabbing a coffee at one of the riverside cafes, and taking a short drive to the nearby beaches. If you’re on a road trip along the Pacific Highway, it’s a perfect lunch break – the Bellingen River Café on the boardwalk serves excellent fish and chips.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bellingen – A 15-minute drive inland, this artsy town is famous for its weekly markets, heritage buildings, and the lush Bellinger River valley.
• Coffs Harbour – 30 minutes south, with the iconic Big Banana, the Botanic Garden, and great surf beaches.
• Dorrigo National Park – About 45 minutes west, this World Heritage-listed rainforest offers spectacular waterfalls, walking trails, and the Skywalk lookout.
• Nambucca Heads – 20 minutes north, known for the V-Wall painted rocks, the Nambucca River estuary, and the scenic Headland walk.
• Macksville – A relaxed riverside town 15 minutes north, with a good bakery and the Nambucca River for kayaking.

Please check official sources for current details.