Things to do in Yamba

Where the Clarence River meets the sea on the North Coast of NSW, you’ll find Yamba. A coastal destination that holiday dreams are made of with beautiful beaches, world-beating surf breaks and teeming with dolphins, sea turtles and migrating whales. All encompassed by lush national park and wilderness reserves.

Nestled among 15 acres of lush gardens, on the banks of the river, and close to the town centre, is the ultimate family destination. Here, you’ll find a wide range of facilities like mini golf, a waterpark, multiple pools, a jumping pillow, and a climbing wall to name a few. But the fun doesn’t stop there – parents can kick back on their floaties and be treated to an easy breezy swim-up bar in the heart of this holiday resort.

Whatever way you like to holiday, we have you covered with a variety of accommodation options. Choose from comfy cabins and waterfront villas to caravan and camping sites close to nature.

While you’re here, there are so many things to do in Yamba, so we’ve put together a few ideas for you to get inspired.

Less than 10 minutes from Blue Dolphin Yamba Holiday Resort, you’ll find Angourie’s Blue and Green Pools. A popular swimming (and jumping) hole, the Blue Pool was once a rock quarry that was transformed into an aquatic haven when an underwater freshwater spring was disturbed. If you’ve embarked on the 10km coastal walk from Angourie, the pools provide much needed relief to cool down and relax.

Walk along Pippi Beach at low tide and you may spot a shellfish of the same name. When the warmer months arrive Pippi is the place to be. It lies on the southern-exposed side of Yamba’s brace of bay beaches, so when it gets wind from the north or west and a tidy swell, it turns on its charm with its turquoise water on full display. You’ll find picnic tables, parking and toilet facilities, plus the southern end of Pippi Beach is an off-leash area for dogs, so you can let your pooch run free.

For over 100 years the Yamba lighthouse has been lighting the way. It’s a distinctive feature of the Yamba coastline and offers breathtaking, expansive views over the Clarence River, Turners Beach and the break walls. Exploring the lighthouse is one of the best things to do in Yamba.

Located between Yamba and Coffs Harbour, the Yuraygir National Park boasts the state’s longest stretch of undeveloped coastline. With 65 kilometres of coastal walks perfect for avid hikers, rocky headlands, isolated beaches and quiet lakes, against a backdrop of forests, heaths and wetlands, this magnificent park is a place to experience, not just see. Discover rare wildlife, remote campgrounds, picnic spots and charming villages. Swim, fish or surf as much as you like, or venture whale watching.

If you’re looking for a little culture and history during your holiday, look no further than Yamba Museum. The museum highlights Yamba’s strong maritime history, including the telescope that belonged to the first pilot and pioneer in Yamba. You can also peruse the extensive photographic collection with publications available for purchase, plus take advantage of the impressive local knowledge from the museum volunteers.

With one of the state’s oldest Surf Lifesaving clubs taking centre stage and overflowing ocean pool built into rocks at the southern end, Yamba’s Main Beach is quintessentially Australian. You can swim and surf here with ease (always between the flags) and if the ocean is a little too intimidating, don’t worry, the pool is the perfect spot for you. You’ll get all the wonderful benefits of the saltwater without any of the nerves about waves or currents.

You’ll find the Angourie walking track in Yuraygir National Park. Enjoy scenic lookouts and coastal views where you can indulge in a picnic, engage in birdwatching or take advantage of whale watching opportunities along the way, you might even spot pods of dolphins. Don’t forget to pack the binoculars! The walking track is a moderately challenging route, taking between 3.5 to 4.5 hours, that links the Mara Creek picnic area in the north with Shelley Headland in the south. The track passes through sections of coastland heath and views of sheltered bays and rocky shoals.

Looking for more adult activities in Yamba? Formerly known as Clarence Distillery, Yamba Distilling Co captures the spirit of Yamba, the Clarence Valley, its community and the many visitors from near and far that enjoy spending time in the area. Open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 2-7pm, head over and relax in their new gin garden and delight your taste buds with their tasting paddles and cocktails.

9. Turners Beach Yamba

Turners Beach is a popular swimming and surfing spot in Yamba. Located between the South Break Wall – which is a great spot for fishing – and the Yamba lighthouse, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll on the sand or don your wetsuit and paddle out.

Held on the 4th Sunday of each month, located at Ford Park on the foreshore of the Clarence River, you can explore all the wonders of the Yamba River Markets. From face painting, coffee carts and regional fresh food to local handmade goods, arts, crafts and live performances, there’s plenty to enjoy at the markets with the whole family.

If you haven’t realised by now, there are so many beaches to explore when you’re staying at Blue Dolphin Yamba Holiday Resort. But Angourie Beach is not one for swimming. It’s a National Surfing Reserve ranked among the top right-hand point breaks in Australia. It’s a popular spot for experienced wave riders all year, with smaller swells suitable for those still learning the ropes. If surfing isn’t your thing, that’s ok, you can still enjoy the sand and watch surfers ride the waves.

This list of top things to do in Yamba NSW doesn’t even scratch the surface. Yamba is proving to more and more people each year why it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing family holiday, packed with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.