8 incredible waterfalls near Yamba worthy of a day trip

Melissa MasonBy Melissa Mason
hero media
Far north NSW is filled with natural wonders beyond its famous beaches. Skip the sand and head inland to experience its spectacular waterfalls.

Veering off the Pacific Highway towards Yamba might feel like leaving reality behind and escaping to a pocket of beach-filled paradise, but if you’re in town for more than a few days it’s definitely worth hopping back in the car and venturing inland again to experience the serenity of the hinterlands and its many waterfalls.

1. Minyon Falls

Minyon Falls drops 100 metres from an escarpment into a crystal clear plunge pool that’s open for swimming, so you can float at your leisure near the roar of the waterfall. Located inside the heritage-listed Nightcap National Park, there are also picnic areas and walking tracks nearby (plus a lookout up top if you’re not keen on swimming), making Minyon Falls perfect for a day trip.

Time from Yamba: 2 hours

Minyon Falls
Take in the power of Minyon Falls from above. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Boundary Falls

Boundary Falls can be found inside Gibraltar Range National Park. Although its a little further from Yamba than some, its definitely worth the trip. You can swim at the base of the falls, accessed by a 200-metre track and a small descent down some stairs. There’s a campground nearby if you want to make an overnighter of it, and it’s worth exploring the national park itself if you have time – there are some beautiful walks to enjoy.

Time from Yamba: 2 hours

3. Killen Falls

One of the smaller waterfalls near Yamba, Killen Falls is a popular swimming hole among locals and visitors alike. You can swim, of course, but it’s also worth heading up above to the lookout platform for spectacular views. Take the walking track behind the falls to get the best Instagram snaps as the water cascades behind you. There’s even a cave for avid explorers! Killen Falls is also just a 45-minute drive from Byron Bay.

Time from Yamba: 1 hour 20 minutes

Killen Falls, NSW
Killen Falls is a popular swim spot among locals. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Red Cedar Falls

The largest waterfall in Dorrigo National Park, Red Cedar Falls thunders from above amid red cedars and bangalow palms, leaving you coated in a fine mist. If that doesn’t cool you down, slip in for a swim at the base of the falls. The only issue is the lengthy walk to get there, around an 8.9-kilometre round trip from the Never Never picnic area. But for those willing to make the Grade 4 trek, you’ll likely have the breathtaking waterfall all to yourself.

Time from Yamba: 3 hours

Red Cedar Falls in Dorrigo National Park, NSW
Red Cedar is the largest waterfall in Dorrigo National Park. (Image: Robert Cleary/DCCEEW)

5. Crystal Shower Falls

This is one of those waterfalls where the name really says it all. A short walk from the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre, make your way across the suspension bridge and you’ll arrive in a wide valley with excellent views of the falls. Take the side trail to check out the cave behind the waterfall, too. Although you can’t swim here (the pool isn’t very deep, so it’s not ideal for swimming anyway), the walk and views are worth the drive anyway. Dangar Falls isn’t too far off if you’re especially keen for a dip.

Crystal Shower Falls in Dorrigo National Park, NSW
Dip in for a swim at Crystal Shower Falls. (Image: Robert Cleary/DCCEEW)

Time from Yamba: 2.5 hours

6. Protesters Falls

When a logging protest back in 1979 successfully saw the area around Terania Creek protected from land clearing, a new waterfall was named. Welcome to Protesters Falls, also nestled in Nightcap National Park. You can’t swim here, but the walking track is a drawcard in itself. At one-and-a-half hours, the Grade 3 round trip is great for exploring with friends – you may even spot local pademelons and frogs!

Time from Yamba: 2 hours

Protesters Falls in NSW
Pop in to Protesters Falls in Nightcap National Park. (Image: The Legendary Pacific Coast)

7. Whian Whian Falls

This lesser-known waterfall is a great spot for a summer swim. A wide, low waterfall sits above fresh, clear waters, usually filled with locals having a leisurely dip. Even if you visit and the waterfall isn’t flowing (it usually needs heavy rain to get going), it’s still a lovely place to spend the day. Whian Whian Falls is (again) found in Nightcap National Park, specifically in the Whian Whian State Conservation Area.

Time from Yamba: 1.5 hours

Whian Whian Falls in NSW
Find the falls in Whian Whian State Conservation Area. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Dangar Falls

Dangar Falls has one of the best swimming holes beneath it, where many locals and tourists while away their days, dipping in and out of the pool below the waterfall. You’ll find the waterfall in Dorrigo National Park via the Dangar Falls walking track. There’s also a viewing area at the top of the waterfall, perfect for those who don’t want to get wet.

Time from Yamba: 2.5 hours

Dangar Falls in NSW
Spend the day relaxing by the water at Dangar Falls. (Image: Destination NSW)
Please note, all waterfalls are subject to temporary closures due to flashing flooding and weather conditions.
Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
See all articles
beachfront dining at The Kiosk Yamba
Yamba

The dreamiest cafes in Yamba for slow mornings

A top-notch cuppa, seasonal produce and a generous dollop of sea breeze — the best cafes in Yamba absolutely nail the good life.

Read more
Yamba camping
Yamba

A guide to every picturesque Yamba camping hot spot

From spectacular sites with million-dollar water views to places to pull up your motorhome, the best Yamba camping and Yamba caravan park picks always dazzle.

Read more
Every memory-making stop on a Yamba to Coffs Harbour day trip
Yamba

Every memory-making stop on a Yamba to Coffs Harbour day trip

The stretch from Yamba to Coffs Harbour is short (just under 1.5 hours), but photo-perfect stop-offs demand a full day of exploration.

Read more
Yamba airbnbs
Yamba

15 Yamba Airbnbs for a blissful beach escape

The best way to immerse yourself in the laidback surf culture of Yamba? By renting one of the best Yamba Airbnbs in and around town.

Read more
hero media

7 great day trips from your Coffs Coast homebase

    Meredith BryanBy Meredith Bryan
    Continue
    Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

    Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

    1. Southern Beaches

    The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

    Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

    family eating lunch in sawtell
    Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

    2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

    The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

    Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

    A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail.
    Explore the green heart of Coffs.

    3. Dorrigo National Park

    Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

    Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout.
    Wander the Skywalk.

    4. Northern Beaches

    For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

    Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views.
    Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

    5. Jetty precinct

    You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

    Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

    Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

    walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour
    Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

    6. Grafton

    Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

    woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton
    Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

    7. Nambucca

    Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

    a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads
    Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

    Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.