Yamba

Yamba is a laid-back coastal town at the mouth of the Clarence River, where surf breaks meet quiet river beaches and a relaxed village vibe. It's a favourite escape for families and surfers, offering uncrowded waves, excellent fishing, and a burgeoning food scene centred on local seafood and craft beer. The town's lighthouse, perched on a headland, provides sweeping views of the Pacific, while the surrounding national parks and waterways invite exploration by kayak or paddleboard.

Highlights & What to See

• Yamba Lighthouse & Angourie Point – Climb the historic lighthouse for panoramic coastal views, then walk to Angourie Point, a world-class surf break with a dramatic headland backdrop.
• Main Beach & Pippi Beach – Swim at patrolled Main Beach or walk to the quieter Pippi Beach, ideal for long strolls and dolphin spotting.
• Clarence River & South Arm – Kayak or paddleboard through the tranquil mangrove-lined waterways, or join a fishing charter for flathead and bream.
• Yuraygir National Park – Explore coastal heath and secluded beaches on walks like the Angourie to Yamba Coastal Walk, with opportunities to spot kangaroos and sea eagles.
• Yamba Museum – Dive into local history, from Indigenous Bundjalung culture to the town's development as a holiday destination.
• Local Food & Drink – Sample fresh oysters at the Yamba Fishermen's Co-op, grab a coffee at a riverside café, or taste craft beers at the Yamba Brewing Co.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal to soak up Yamba's relaxed pace. Spend the first day exploring the beaches and lighthouse, then dedicate a second day to the river or national park. If you have a third day, consider a fishing trip or a leisurely cycle around the headland. Yamba works well as a two-night stop on a coastal road trip between Sydney and Brisbane.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Iluka – A quiet village across the river with a historic jetty and access to the Bundjalung National Park.
• Maclean – The 'Scottish Town in Australia', known for its tartan-themed streets and Scottish heritage museum.
• Grafton – A historic city on the Clarence River, famous for its jacaranda trees and heritage architecture.
• Yuraygir National Park – The park stretches north from Yamba to Iluka, offering remote beaches and coastal walks.
• Clarence Valley – Explore the river's floodplain, with sugar cane farms, historic villages, and the stunning Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Please check official sources for current details.