The best Yamba accommodation for a coastal getaway

Whether you’re poised to splurge or pinching every penny, the best Yamba accommodation will sort every traveller out.

The laid-back beach town of Yamba has long been considered one of NSW’s best-kept secrets, and rightly so. It’s awash with gorgeous stretches of coastline, a blossoming food and wine scene, a long list of fabulous things to do and some rather lovely hotels, motels, Airbnbs and other places to stay. Presenting our guide to the best Yamba accommodation to get you on your way.

Yamba hotels, resorts and motels

Yamba has long been a beach holiday destination, and you’ll find plenty of its hotels and motels date back decades. Some Yamba accommodation picks keep the nostalgia alive with nods to quintessential 1980s Aussie beach accommodation, while others lean right into luxury, focusing on modern decor and spreading serene holiday vibes. The next level up? Finding an all-too-convenient resort that offers it all.

Il Delfino

Il Defino will transport you to the Italian coast.

Best for: Mediterranean summer vibes

Transport your mind and spirit to the sun-soaked shores of Italy with a stay at Il Delfino , a postcard-perfect Yamba accommodation standout. One of the top Australian hotel openings in recent times, the seaside inn is positioned to throw up panoramic views of the ocean — making for an effortless morning surf report.

Just five self-serviced stays are up for grabs, spanning four Instagram-friendly suites and one stand-alone bungalow, but every inch of this aesthetically brilliant stay is laced with plush furnishings including Aesop bathroom amenities, vintage vanities, handcrafted wall sconces, robes, fluffy slippers and Smeg kitchen appliances. Visitors should note that children under the age of 10 are sadly (or not so sadly, really) not allowed.

Address: 4 Ocean St, Yamba

The Surf Yamba

Best for: A touch of luxe

This boutique hotel  has become a bit of a local landmark. Its crowning glory, a sunlit rooftop terrace with striped sun lounges and a heated plunge pool, overlooks the golden crescent of sand that is Yamba’s Main Beach. But there’s plenty more to fall in love with at this 12-room property.

From its gorgeous whitewashed curved exterior to the retro feel of the interiors (hello terrazzo flooring, blush pink and muted turquoise accents and brushed brass fittings), it’s calm, cool and supremely covetable.

You’ll also find Australian-made, botanical-infused toiletries from Leif, luxury linen bathrobes from Bemboka and artworks from Victorian-based artists Elizabeth Barnett and Caroline Walls at this outstanding Yamba accommodation.

Address: 2 Queen St, Yamba

Pacific Hotel Yamba

Best for: Unbeatable location

Perched just on the northern edge on Main Beach, this adults-only Yamba hotel  offers Pacific Ocean views and smart guest rooms. You can pick from two styles of stays here, depending on your needs and budget. The nine rooms in its ‘northern wing’, renovated in early 2021, feature a modern, stylish and streamlined design — think white walls, blonde wood furnishings and matte black fittings and fixtures. They all feature ensuite bathrooms, and some have private balconies, too.

The older ‘pub rooms’ are more basic, featuring more dated white furniture and shared bathrooms, but equally, more appealing prices.

Guests at this Yamba accommodation pick don’t have to venture far for a feed. The downstairs restaurant dishes up your favourite pub classics (steak and chips, beer battered fish, schnitties and parmas) with a side of seriously stellar ocean and foreshore views.

Address: 18 Pilot St, Yamba

Angourie Resort

Best for: Day spa proximity

Craving total nature immersion? Angourie Resort , one of the best Yamba accommodation options, envelopes its guests in lush rainforest tranquillity. Fitted with self-contained apartments and a handful of villas, the stays are comfortable and clean, allowing their breathtaking surroundings to steal the spotlight.

Large balconies, outdoor dining settings, spa baths (in the one-bedroom Spa Apartments), air conditioning and fully equipped kitchens will keep everyone pleased before they head out to explore the resort’s facilities. An outdoor swimming pool, pool bar, the acclaimed Cunjevoi Restaurant, kids’ pool, jacuzzi and day spa will prove the perfect pit-stops between zips into the centre of town (you’re five minutes from all the action), ocean swims and a whole lot of Yamba’s signature sleepy lazing.

Address: 166 Angourie Rd, Yamba

Yamba Aston Motel

Best for: Budget-friendly accommodation

One of the most affordable accommodation options in Yamba that’s still walking distance from the main streets and beaches, Yamba Aston Motel  might feel a little no-frills to some folks. But with king-sized beds, freshly painted interiors and all your most desirable facilities, it’s a strong choice. Dip your feet in the Yamba accommodation’s outdoor swimming pool and spa or grab supplies and take advantage of the outdoor BBQ area. There’s also air-con, free wi-fi and smart TVs, so it’s very comfortable and convenient for groups and families.

Address: 37 Coldstream St, Yamba

Coast Yamba

Best for: Adults-only R&R

If you’re desperate for some peace and quiet and it’s just you and your better half (or you’re escaping with another couple), Coast Yamba ’s beachside apartments are just the ticket. Offering one or two-bedroom options, some are even treated to ocean glimpses, setting a romantic setting best appreciated by grown-ups.

Large private balconies, open-plan kitchens and fully equipped kitchens facilitate relaxed holiday living while the hot tub demands further attention. Beach towels are also on hand to get you seizing those beach days with minimal fuss.

Address: 14 Henson Ln, Yamba

The Carmel Yamba

Best for: A dose of nostalgia

A hipster haunt with bucketloads of charisma, The Carmel Yamba is modelled on the resort-style motels of yesteryear, exuding a strong surf-retro feel complete with a tropical garden setting and outdoor patios.

Stylish and modern while retaining the nostalgia of lazy beach days in the 1980s and 1990s, this Yamba accommodation also offers a surprising amount of leisure activities, spanning a saltwater pool and tennis court to vintage bikes you can take along the bike-friendly highway to nearby Angourie.

Address: 2-4 Yamba Rd, Yamba

The Stella Motel

the bedroom at Stella Motel, Yamba — For a comfortable stay, consider staying at Stella Motel.

Best for: Large groups

The Stella Motel is well-placed up on Yamba Hill near the Pacific Hotel, close to Convent Beach and Main Beach. Guests can choose from single, double or Family Junior rooms, with all featuring double beds, flat-screen TVs and air conditioning. If you’re keen for the pick of the lot, level up to the Ocean View Apartment which opens directly to the front of the motel (where ocean vistas splash you right in the face) and four guests can comfortably stay thanks to two ensuite bathrooms, two double beds and a sofa bed.

Address: 17 Clarence St, Yamba

Airbnb and Stayz in Yamba

If you’re after pet-friendly accommodation or the very best in self-contained living, Yamba’s extensive range of Airbnb and Stayz properties will suit you. Many have private pools, large backyards for the dog and open plan designs for al fresco dining. Can never have enough options? Take a look at our full wrap of the best Airbnbs in Yamba for Yamba accommodation to fit the whole family.

The White House Yamba

Best for: Large groups

A two-storey four-bedroom residence that sleeps up to eight, The White House Yamba is an ideal retreat for groups. Situated on the southern edge of town, just a 10-minute walk to all of Yamba’s best cafes and Yamba’s best restaurants, and a five-minute walk to its best surf beach, Pippi, you won’t be left wanting when it comes to location.

The house itself is modern and minimalist and there’s open-plan kitchen and dining, plus an outdoor entertaining and lounge area with a Weber BBQ and dining table.

You can also alternate between three different lounge areas, but it’s the little luxuries that make this Yamba accommodation a cut above the rest. The free-standing bathtubs, generous Smeg oven, smart TVs and Tempur mattresses add up to a super comfortable stay.

The Beach House Studio

Best for: A romantic weekend away

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more idyllic spot, or more immaculately styled space, than this Yamba accommodation . And what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for with thoughtfully curated spaces with all the mod cons and killer sea views to boot.

Design junkies will adore the luxe linens, glass bifold doors, whitewashed walls and reclaimed timber furnishings. It’s basically the ultimate ultra-chic beach shack and perfect for an escape for two.

Mysa Yamba

Best for: A home away from home

Bring the whole family along to Mysa Yamba , a four-bedroom renovated Airbnb in a leafy neighbourhood just outside of Yamba’s main scene.

The Yamba accommodation has its own pontoon and swimming pool, complete with pillowy day beds and an expansive deck. Kids will love the kayaks and a bunk room, as well as the vintage video games for rainy days.

Caravan parks in Yamba

Yamba’s caravan parks are renowned for their million-dollar positions right on waterfronts and beaches. Whether you’re setting up a swag, pulling your caravan in for the week, or just keen for a family-friendly spot to keep the kids smiling, choosing this style of Yamba accommodation is an affordable way to spend the summer season. Most are extremely pet-friendly too, so it’s just a choice of whether you prefer river frontage or being in the centre of town.

NRMA Blue Dolphin Yamba Holiday Resort

Best for: Families and anyone with pets

Travelling with the troop? The NRMA Blue Dolphin Yamba Holiday Resort has you covered. Situated just outside the centre of town, this Yamba accommodation features an abundance of family-friendly facilities.

Just try tearing the kids away from its onsite waterpark with slide, toys and fountains – or don’t. After all, there’s a swim-up pool bar located next door, perfect for weary mums and dads to keep an eye on little ones. Water babies can also enjoy the resort pool with its two waterslides, while tweens and teens might opt to while away the day in the tropical pool.

If you’d rather spend time getting closer to nature, pootle along the resort’s 300 metres of riverfront from where you can swim, fish, crab, water ski, jet ski, sail or kayak. Otherwise, there’s a pump track, climbing wall, snooker hall, games room, or go-karts — aka, plenty to keep everyone occupied.

Moreover, there’s an array of different accommodation categories to choose from, which can sleep up to eight. Choose from a dog-friendly villa, a camping or caravanning site, a spacious river-view unit, or one of the many options in between.

Address: Yamba Rd, Yamba

BIG4 Saltwater Yamba Holiday Park

Best for: Spoiled pups and active kids

This pet-friendly caravan park  is set in a great Yamba location across 130 acres of parkland, just 10 minutes from the centre of town. Kids are the priority, whether they’re two or four-legged. For the human variety, they’ll jump between the giant jumping pillow, two outdoor playgrounds, and the standout The Oasis waterpark, unveiled in November 2024, which is kitted out with water features, toddler-friendly shallow shores, water slides and more. Plus, there’s kayaking, fishing and paddle boarding gear available for hire.

Choose from powered and unpowered campsites, which offer some of the largest slab and grass sites in the Yamba region, according to Big4. Non-campers can stay in cabins, some of which are pet friendly. The largest, Tuckeroo, sleeps up to 10 people while the Casuarina is perfect for small families or couples.

One big plus for dog lovers is the dedicated off-leash dog play area, where your pup can enjoy ramps and tunnels. The rest of the Yamba caravan park is also dog-friendly, if your pal stays on-leash.

Address: 286 O’Keefe’s Lane, Yamba

Calypso Yamba Holiday Park

Best for: Centre-of-everything location

Calypso Yamba Holiday Park  is at the end of Yamba’s town centre, so you won’t be needing a car any time soon. There, you’ll find a mix of cabins (including an easy-access cabin that’s wheelchair-friendly) that sleep between two to four people.

In terms of caravanning and camping sites, the Yamba accommodation offers a mix of concrete slab and grass sites, all of which are conveniently placed near amenities. Facility wise, there’s even better news as a children’s playground, swimming pool, pontoon, bike path, BBQ area and dump point can all be found.

Address: Harbour Street, Yamba

Yamba camping spots

Most of Yamba’s best camping spots will involve a fee, and some are even found in the various caravan parks in and around town (so you’ll need to fork out for that access, too). No matter what you land on, it’s worth it, as you’ll score riverfront views, proximity to pristine beaches and easy access to clean amenities. Here are our favourites, and if you’re needing more inspiration, check out the top camping spots in Yamba and its surrounding areas.

Fishing Haven Holiday Park

Best for: Wildlife spotting

Out on Palmers Island (just minutes from Yamba) you’ll find the fisherman’s pick of camping spots – Fishing Haven Holiday Park . Right on the Clarence River, this park is all about family activity. You’ll play ‘I Spy’ with native critters, enjoy kayaking and swimming, and fish in the stunning Clarence River all day long.

Address: 35 River Rd, Palmers Island

Minnie Water Holiday Park

Best for: Old-school camping vibes

A family favourite of many locals, Minnie Water Holiday Park  is near the beautiful Yuraygir Coastal Walk, one of the best things to do in Yamba. There, you’ll find a range of cabins, van sites and campsites set among the beautiful beach bushland of peaceful Minnie Water.

You’ll be an hour’s drive out of Yamba, but if serenity and stripped back nothingness in the middle of nature’s splendour are entirely your speed, you can’t beat this Yamba accommodation.

Address: 646 Minnie Water Rd, Minnie Water

Woody Head Campground

Best for: Remote beachside stays

Thirty minutes out of Yamba, you’ll find the gorgeous Woody Head area, with an incredible campground run by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. You can take your caravan, camper trailer or tent to set up shop right by the beach, and there are even cute beach shack-style cabins if you’re needing four secure walls.

With 94 sites in total, you’ll need to book ahead. Factor $8 per vehicle, per night into your booking to cover your National Park fees, too.

Address: 92 Woody Head Rd, Woody Head

This article was originally written by Melissa Mason with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.