Photo: PD
Angourie is a tiny coastal hamlet on the NSW North Coast that punches well above its weight. Famous among surfers for its world-class right-hand point break, it also offers pristine rainforest walks, a stunning blue lagoon, and a laid-back village vibe that feels a world away from the nearby tourist hubs. This is a place where you can paddle in crystalline rock pools, spot sea eagles overhead, and feel the raw power of the Pacific — all within a few square kilometres.
Highlights & What to See
- Angourie Point: A legendary surf break that peels over a rocky reef. Even if you don't surf, watching the pros from the headland is a spectacle.
- Angourie Blue & Green Pools: Former quarries turned into impossibly turquoise swimming holes, surrounded by bushland. Perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
- Angourie Rainforest Walk: A short, shady boardwalk loop through coastal littoral rainforest, with interpretive signs about local flora and fauna.
- Spookys Beach: A wild, uncrowded stretch of sand just south of the point, great for beachcombing and long walks.
- Yuraygir National Park: The village sits on the edge of this protected area, offering superb coastal walks, including the challenging but rewarding Angourie to Shelley Beach track.
Suggested Time to Spend
Angourie is compact enough to explore in a half-day, but its relaxed atmosphere tempts many to stay longer. If you're not surfing, allow 2–3 hours to swim in the pools, stroll the rainforest walk, and take in the views from the point. For walkers, the Yuraygir coastal track can easily fill a full day. Many visitors base themselves here for a few days, combining surfing, swimming, and hiking with the excellent cafes and bakeries in nearby Yamba.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Yamba: Just 5 minutes' drive north, this vibrant seaside town offers great cafes, boutique shopping, and the iconic Yamba Lighthouse.
- Iluka: A sleepy fishing village at the mouth of the Clarence River, with a beautiful nature reserve and a historic breakwater walk.
- Bundjalung National Park: South of Angourie, this park protects stunning coastal dunes, heathlands, and the pristine Jerusalem Creek.
- Grafton: About 50 minutes inland, known for its heritage architecture and the annual Jacaranda Festival.
- Clarence River: The mighty river offers kayaking, fishing, and river cruises, with several towns like Maclean and Ulmarra worth a stop.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.