22 Magnificent Things to Do in Yamba This Summer

Make the most of your visit to this charming coastal village with our list of the best things to do in Yamba.

The seaside village of Yamba is the sort of place that prompts visiting city dwellers to dream about downsizing. Grab an obligatory schooner of beer at the Pacific Hotel, sign up for a surfing lesson, enjoy an iconic coastal walk, swim at a nearby waterfall and fall for Yamba’s low-key Australian charm by exploring its lovely landscapes and beautiful beaches. Here are 18 fabulous things to do in Yamba.

1. Soak up some self-care at Exhale Yamba

an outdoor spa bath at Exhale Yamba — Exhale Yamba features a dreamy outdoor spa bath in a lush garden setting.

Australia’s obsession with the rejuvenating art of spa baths knows no bounds with Yamba the latest destination to embrace the trend. Drop your bags and float over to Exhale Yamba to explore the beach town’s first foray into holistic bathhouse territory. Offering mineral-enriched baths in a lush garden setting, plus traditional and infrared saunas and cold plunging in an ice bath, the wellness haven is undoubtedly one of the most replenishing things to do in Yamba. It opened its doors in November 2023 and also offers massage treatments, breath work services and beauty services.

2. Explore the Blue and Green Pools in Angourie

Angourie Blue Pool, Angourie, Yamba, NSW, Australia — The Blue and Green Pools make an escape to Yamba even more magical. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’ll need to veer off the Pacific Highway and cross the serpentine, Clarence River, to get to Yamba, which is only a couple of hours from its boho sibling, Byron Bay. And while salty-haired surfers flock to Yamba to go surfing, a visit to the emerald Blue and Green Pools makes an escape to Yamba even more magical.

Both are open for swimming, although it’s good to check local guidelines as there can be algae blooms, especially in summer. The pools are located at The Crescent, a reserve that is culturally significant to the Yaegl community.

3. Take a ferry ride from Yamba to Iluka

the MV Mirigini along the scenic Clarence River — Hop aboard MV Mirigini along the scenic Clarence River.

Admire Yamba’s tropical beauty from the water with Clarence River Ferries ’ historic MV Mirigini, which sluices daily between Yamba and Iluka on the mouth of the Clarence River.

The ferry also offers informative excursions to nearby Harwood Island on Wednesday and Friday, as well as a live music cruise on Sunday.

4. Swim, dive, snorkel, fish or surf Yamba’s beaches

an aerial view of Pippi Beach, Yamba — Yamba is the poster child for the beautiful beaches of Northern NSW. (Image: Destination NSW)

Yamba is the poster child for the beautiful beaches of Northern NSW. Take the pup down to dog-friendly Pippi Beach or relax under palm fronds at the lesser-known Convent Beach.

Keen fisherman? The surrounding waterways in Yamba are teeming with fish, and you’ll find a plethora of great fishing spots – head to Yamba Bait and Tackle in town and ask where to get started. The knowledgeable staff are happy to help out. Avid surfers will love Main Beach, which often has great waves, or nearby Angourie with Spooky Beach being one of the best places near Yamba for snorkelling, too.

5. Entertain the kids at Yamba Bowling Club

The Yamba Bowlo  is an institution, renowned for its extensive kid-friendly activities. There’s ten pin bowling, a mini golf course, a rock wall and a maze for toddlers, so even the little ones are well-catered for.

The Friday and Sunday raffles are big news, especially in the high summer season (winning a seafood BBQ dinner? Nothing beats it!), and its Norfolk Bistro offers up classic club fare like schnitties and seafood baskets. It’s also worth checking out the bowling club’s gig guide as loads of major Australian artists, including the Hoodoo Gurus and Paul Kelly, have played there.

6. Book a BBQ boat charter for a day on the water

Soak up the sun and laidback feasting aboard a BBQ boat charter. Services can be snapped up via Yamba B.B.Q. Boat Hire , located at Yamba Marina on Yamba Road. Take your pick from three six-seater cuddy cab runabouts, two eight-seater vessels, two 10-seater vessels and two 12-seater pontoon choices.

All boats include your all-important barbecue, cushioned seating, toilets, life jackets, a first aid kit and shading to fend off those epic local rays.

7. Visit the picturesque Peach Farm Bush Camp

Woman picking a peach from the tree — Time your visit for harvest season and pick your own peaches fresh from the trees.

For those craving an escape to the country, The Peach Farm Bush Camp delivers with its rural surrounds in the Lower Clarence, a top spot to spend a night under the stars. It’s also a great day activity for families as visitors are invited to feed farm animals (think bunnies, chooks, sheep, guinea pigs and more) as bags of feed are available to guests for a fee.

The kids will also find their fix at the beautiful nature playground and there’s a neighbourhood shop stocked with the farms’ pickings, snacks, sweets and more.

8. Catch some thrills onboard a fishing charter

While we’re on the topic of boats, it’s worth considering a full or half day fishing charter out there, too. The options are abundant with the likes of Yamba Fishing and Charters , Reel Time Fishing Charters and Solitary Island Fishing Charters facilitating regular charters.

Whatever you opt for, Yamba fishing charters always promise to guide you through baiting your hook and rigging your line to help you land a big, juicy one for that ultimate happy snap. Already a seasoned pro? These expeditions are pure indulgence, brimming with plenty of opportunities to make a catch.

9. Run the Yamba Breakwall track

Pods of dolphins in Yamba — Playful pods of dolphins are a regular sight in Yamba.

One of the best Yamba jogging routes is along the Yamba Breakwall, which separates Turners Beach and the Clarence River. You’ll head past the historic Yamba lighthouse, which has existed in its coastal location for over 100 years. Keep an eye out for dolphins which often frequent the waters here.

Best of all, the Yamba Breakwall is dog-friendly (just keep them on a leash), and wide enough to enjoy strolling alongside friends, too.

10. Chow down at the Yamba Prawn Shack

Prawns by the water — Embrace your own boat-to-plate experience at the Yamba Prawn Shack.

The Clarence River Fisherman’s Co-Op  is marked on the Sydney Fish Market map as a suggested stop on a seafood-centric road trip, so you know it’s worth a visit. As well as selling fish and chips alongside fresh seafood you can BBQ at home, the co-op supplies Yamba prawns, oysters and other delicious crustaceans to the Yamba Prawn Shack , one of the best boat-to-plate spots to pick up fresh seafood in Yamba. Order a bucket-load of prawns to go, then head to the headland overlooking Main Beach for a picnic.

11. Sample fine sips at the Yamba Distilling Co.

Change your clocks to Clarence Valley time and settle in for a tasting at Yamba Distilling Co ., where you can indulge in tasting paddles and cocktails crafted from the team’s dry gin (and coffee liqueur) creations.

It’s an adult-specific thing to do in Yamba but children and dogs are welcome within the venue’s Gin Garden, if they’re kept under control.

12. Find a brew with a view at The Pacific Hotel

a suite with balcony at The Pacific Hotel, Yamba — Bed down at this Art Deco beauty.

The Pacific Hotel  is a Yamba mainstay and one of the best Yamba accommodation picks. But it’s also plenty frequented for its views. A renovated beauty with one of the best seats in town, the prominent landmark offers surf, sea, and sun on tap, so expect a few crusty surfers lurking on the deck in search of a swell. Go for the house-beer-battered fish served with salad and fries and stay for the live entertainment.

13. Relax with a massage

the treatment room at Mikahuna Massage & Bodywork — Treat yourself to a rejuvenating treatment at Mikahuna Massage & Bodywork.

Yamba has several excellent day spas and massage specialists worth checking out if you need some wind-down time on your holiday. Melt Massage and Beauty  in nearby Maclean is a popular salon, offering massage and body therapies as well as facials and lengthier packages.

Another popular choice is Ngara Beauty , a day spa run by mother and daughter locals, Natalie Le Breton and Daisy Lloyd. For something different, Mikahuna Massage & Bodywork offers traditional Hawaiian massage techniques.

14. Hire a bike and explore Angourie

a couple biking in Yamba — Yamba offers numerous picturesque cycling spots. (Image: Destination NSW)

While you can drive to the Blue and Green pools in Angourie, a nice day trip can involve renting a bike and cycling along the highway between Yamba and the sleepy surf town. Bike Shop Yamba  rents bikes out to visitors, and the ride will take you approximately 20 minutes.

Many of Yamba’s hotels and motels will also have bikes you can borrow for free, so it’s worth checking with your accommodation before looking beyond. Remember to always wear a helmet and be cautious when riding – the highway is wide and has a dedicated bike path but there is an 80 km/h speed limit along some stretches.

15. Sink cracking cold ones at Wobbly Chook

Corkscrew around the Clarence for long enough and chances are you’ll steer into Wobbly Chook , located in Yamba’s industrial estate. The microbrewery offers a selection of beers including lager, IPA and a particularly memorable ‘Dirty Bird’ brown ale, which will, according to owner Justin, “put hairs on your chest". The must-visit is also open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, selling everything from bacon and egg rolls to pulled pork nachos — delicious stomach-lining stuff.

16. Hike along the Yuraygir coastal walk

a couple spending time together along the Yuraygir coastal walk — The 65-kilometre-long multi-day walk traces the coastline from Angourie to Red Rock. (Image: Destination NSW)

The multi-day Yuraygir coastal walk along the Clarence Coast is dotted with places to stop for a snorkel or swim or to look out for whales. The 65-kilometre-long multi-day walk traces the coastline from Angourie to Red Rock with overnight stops at beautiful beach campgrounds.

The trail journeys through the traditional homelands of the Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl nations along an ancient path followed by Australia’s coastal emus. Time it right (around October) and you’ll be able to bask in flannel flower pastures, which are pretty spectacular.

17. Shop at Yamba’s best boutiques

a look inside the boutique shop at Island Collective, Yamba — Hunt for treasures to take home at Island Collective.

Yamba is loved for its quirky charm, and a large part of that charm is due to the local, independent boutiques and homeware shops that wouldn’t look out of place in our beloved Byron Bay (but without the bumper-to-bumper crowds).

Bounce between One Country Mouse , Podium  (which stocks Australian labels like Zulu & Zephyr and Rowie The Label) and Island Collective  while hunting for treasures to take home. Don’t miss Summi Summi , too, a local fashion label stocking killer summer wardrobe essentials.

18. Catch a flick at Yamba Cinema

Whether you prefer cult classics or new releases, this independent movie theatre will offer your fix. The cinema is all old-school Yamba nostalgia with its single-screen space, however up to 200 guests can comfortably fit within its walls. Located just a few minutes from the town centre, the ultra-comfy cinema is dressed in red-velvet curtains while also serving popcorn and choc-tops at its snack bar.

19. Meet the makers at the Yamba Farmers & Producers Markets

fresh produce from the Yamba Farmers and Producers Market, Yamba — Fill your basket with fresh produce. (Image: Destination NSW)

To see this tight-knit community do what they do best, factor in a visit to Yamba Farmers & Producers Market , which operates Wednesdays from 7am at the Whiting Beach carpark on the corner of Clarence and Harbour Streets.

Young creatives have moved to the region in droves, and you’ll get a sense of this when you wander around the weekly event, as stallholders sell everything from microgreens to sourdough and sushi.

Alternatively, check out the Yamba River Markets , which take place on the fourth Sunday of every month at Ford Park on the Clarence River. You’ll find loads of local businesses selling everything from fresh produce to fashion.

20. Follow the Lower Clarence Aboriginal Tourist Site Drive

The Clarence River region holds great importance to the local Goorie (Aboriginal) people, and this driving route steers visitors around significant sites where you can honour the stories of the Traditional Owners of the Land.

Stop at 13 sites along the way to learn Dreamtime stories about the Durrangan (which the Goories believe to be a powerful spirit) and the creation of the Clarence Aboriginal People.

21. Connect to nature at Nymboida Camping and Canoeing

a campsite in a forest at within Nymboida Camping and Canoeing — Get off the grid and unwind in one of the campsites.

Eight sections. 195 kilometres. Eight waterfalls. 12 campsites. Australia’s longest mapped whitewater trail, the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail within Nymboida Camping and Canoeing , snakes between Nymboi-Binderay National Park and the township of Copmanhurst, containing some of the most diverse conditions for paddling found anywhere in the world. But it’s not just for gung-ho action heroes. The epic trail also has family-friendly sections and experienced guides who can paddle with you.

22. Paddle through stillness with a kayak tour

Yamba Kayaks on the Clarence River — Explore mangroves along the Clarence River on a kayak. (Image: Destination NSW)

Skip the frothy surf for a meander down the stunning Clarence River. Yamba Kayak offers a range of diverse tours including the standout three-hour River Island Tour which explores local islands, mangroves and secret beaches inside the mouth of the river. Morning tea, coffee and tea is also included.

This article was originally written by Carla Grossetti with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams.

Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.

Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.

1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour

The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP .

Aerial view of Newcastle Harbour. — Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)

2. Underground jazz scene

Follow the lively sound of the saxophone bubbling up to find The Underground . The popular basement-level bar, with its dim lighting and speakeasy aesthetic, schedules live jazz performances every Tuesday and Thursday. Newcastle is known around the country for supporting live music and this late-night New York-style jazz bar is, like the city itself, both approachable and sophisticated. For fans of live music, Queen’s Wharf Hotel , King Street Newcastle , Mad Poet and The Lucky Hotel are all popular pubs for their roster of live music.

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3. The city as a canvas

The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery , adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tour to explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.

Friends take in Newcastle Street Art. — Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. An artist’s view of Newcastle

There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.

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5. Newcastle after dark

The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.

A bartender expertly crafting a drink, with a stunning library of spirits in the background. — Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)

6. Indulge in great gastronomy

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos , through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle . Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug , Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.

The dining area at Flotilla in Newcastle NSW. — Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)

7. Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor. Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.

The Roundhouse by Crystalbrook Collection. — Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

8. Newcastle’s creative side on show

Save the date for New Annual , a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October. The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations. Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.

Dancers performing gracefully, accompanied by a live orchestra. — Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.

Plan your next trip to offbeat Newcastle.

22 magnificent things to do in Yamba this summer