A Local's Guide To All The Best Things To Do In Yamba, NSW

Twenty years ago, if you were looking for a laid-back beach holiday in New South Wales, Byron Bay was your best bet. But with Byron Bay becoming increasingly overcrowded and overpriced, many have started to declare Yamba, 120 kilometres to the south, ‘the new Byron’.

As a Yamba local, I’ve watched the sleepy fishing town of my childhood mature into an impressive beachside destination, which still manages to maintain its unpretentious essence and strong sense of community.

Where is it?

Yamba is located on the coast of northern NSW at the mouth of the Clarence River. It’s about a three-hour drive from Brisbane. Visitors arriving from Sydney can catch a one-hour flight to Ballina-Byron Airport and drive the remaining 100 kilometres down to Yamba, otherwise it’s around a seven-hour drive along the NSW coastline.

Clarence River at Sunset in Yamba — Yamba is located at the mouth of the Clarence River. Expect some killer sunsets here! (Image: Destination NSW)

Other towns worth visiting within day-trip distance of Yamba include the charming riverside town of Maclean; Iluka with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest; the rugged, unspoilt beaches of Brooms Head; and the surfing hamlet of Angourie.

Scenic bushland drive to Green Point at Angourie — Factor in a visit to the surfing hamlet of Angourie. (Image: Destination NSW)

What to do

Even if you’re not a beach lover, there are plenty of things to do in Yamba that don’t involve sand and surf. From sun-soaked bike rides to the surf town of Angourie to meandering through produce markets and browsing local boutiques, Yamba really does have something for everyone. Oh, and for those craving a salty dip, the plentiful beaches that range from kid-friendly protected coves to gold-standard surfing destinations will have you set all holidays.

Yamba beaches

With five options to choose from, Yamba has a beach to suit everyone. Main Beach is the most popular, with a surf club, cafe and ocean pool.

Yamba ocean pool — The ocean pool at Yamba Main Beach.

Located directly beneath the Pacific Hotel, it’s the perfect choice for a late-afternoon dip – just walk up the steps for your post-swim drink as the sun sets and casts its warm hues over the ocean below. Brought fur babies with you? The off-leash area at Pippi beach’s southern end is doggie nirvana.

Pippi Beach yamba — Pristine Pippi Beach stretches for 1.6 kilometres.

If you prefer a wave-free swimming experience or need somewhere for the little ones to paddle, the flat, peaceful Whiting Beach is just a short 10-minute walk from the centre of town. It’s also a favourite with kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders. Alternatively, skip the crowds at the lesser-known Convent Beach or take a post-lunch dip at Turners, just moments from the centre of town.

Surfers heading out for a morning surf at Turners Beach, Yamba. — Hit the surf at Turners Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Surf Tip: Surfers love Yamba because there is (almost) always good surf on at least one of the beaches. If the wind is blowing north, head to Pippi or Turner’s near the breakwall. For a southerly, Angourie Point, Turner’s or Main Beach are your best bet and if it’s blowing west you can surf anywhere.

Dive into all the details on Yamba’s pristine beaches with our comprehensive guide.

Yamba Farmers & Producers Market

Held in the car park between Whiting and Turner’s every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am, this quaint market is a favourite among locals.

You’ll be able to pick up everything from organic fruit and veg grown in backyards and high-quality meat like Dorper Lamb and Gracemere Farmstead pasture-raised chicken, to artisanal products like Ashby Sourdough and Mudyala Aboriginal Corporation’s Bakarindi Bush Foods.

Ashby Sourdough, Yamba Farmers & Producers Market — Pick up some freshly-baked goods at the Ashby Sourdough stall. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Break Wall at Turners Beach

Grab a smoothie and breakfast burger from the farmers market and head off for a walk down to Turners Breakwall.

Aerial view of Yamba — Walk along the Break Wall in Yamba. (Image: Destination NSW)

On your right you’ll get a great view of Turners Beach and the lighthouse on the hill, while on your left you’ll see the open water where the ocean meets the Clarence River and, if you look carefully enough, you’re likely to spot a dolphin or two.

Dolphins in Yamba — Spot dolphins at play near the Break Wall. (Image: Destination NSW)

Blue and Green Pools Angourie

Though it’s not technically in Yamba, the quiet coastal village of Angourie, just an eight-minute drive from town is well worth a visit. While die-hard surfers will love the challenging break at Angourie Point, the whole family will enjoy a visit to Blue and Green Pools.

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

Follow the lead of the local kids who expertly climb the rocky cliff face to dive into the freshwater pools below. Just be sure to check sign postings as both pools close temporarily from time to time due to algae blooms, a natural occurrence that typically happens more often during the warmer months.

Blue and Green pools are well worth a visit.

Where to eat and drink

Yamba has two main spots where you’ll find a mix of casual cafes and restaurants – up the top of Coldstream Street above Main beach, and through the centre of town.

Whether you’re after a sunset cocktail and fresh local seafood or a simple takeaway ice cream of an afternoon, the town has a venue catering to that growling tummy.

Our exhaustive list of the best cafes in Yamba covers all the best spots for brunch and lunch, as does our pick of best restaurants for dinner in the area. Below, however, there are some top standouts.

Yum Yum Angourie General Store & Cafe

This quaint, friendly cafe-cum-gourmet grocer has moved from its quiet corner in Angourie to the bustling Coldstream Street location that used to house Irons and Craig.

Food and drink available on the menu at Yum Yum Angourie — Make a beeline to Yum Yum Angourie Cafe and General Store for their delicious food. (Image: Destination NSW)

Pull up a chair at the long, sun-drenched front bench, enjoy that perfect Yamba weather, and watch the world go by as you enjoy some of the best coffee in town alongside a delicious modern Australian breakfast. Later, head inside to pick up a few goodies for gifts or the kitchen.

Desserts served at Yum Yum Angourie Cafe and General Store, Yamba. — The dessert offering is just as good! (Image: Destination NSW)

Summi’s

Is this the best coffee in Yamba? Many locals would passionately say yes. Once you’ve ordered your oat milk cappuccino, browse the capsule fashion collections that feature stretchy summer midi dresses and terry-towelling sets – the Summi Summi label has cult status in fashion circles.

Brgr Spot

By far the best burgers in town, the juicy patties, clever flavour combos and high-quality toppings really hit the spot here. The knowledgeable, laid-back staff at this street-inspired venue are more than happy to guide you through their broad selection of craft tinnies.

Pacific Hotel

After your burger, cross the road to the cliff-top Pacific Hotel for one more beer and enjoy the best view in town, looking out over the magnificent coastline below.

Karrikin

After the roaring success of their cafe Leche, local couple Clare Bourke and Zac Roberts turned their attention to evening food, opening Karrikin a few years ago. Karrikin manages to encapsulate the very essence of Yamba with its stylish, laid-back decor, unpretentious but accomplished staff and surprisingly inventive share plates showcasing local produce and native Australian ingredients.

Chef Zac can be found at the local farmers’ markets every Wednesday, stocking up on fresh seasonal produce from the Clarence Valley and Northern Rivers. The menu is somewhat cryptic, with only the key ingredients listed, making each dish a delicious surprise.

Menu at Karrikin in Yamba — The food at Karrikin is divine.

Further afield

If you’re looking for a change of pace, take a 20-minute drive to the quiet riverside town of Maclean. Fish off the wharf, head to the lookout for panoramic views of the Clarence Valley or simply sit and read a book on the riverbank before checking out some of these eateries.

Palmers Island General Store, Palmers Island

Stop by this unassuming roadside shop, located between Yamba and Maclean, to try one of their delicious house-made pies or load up on gourmet goodies like imported cheese, charcuterie and craft beers. Palmers Island is the second largest of the 100 islands dotted along the Clarence River.

Botero Roastery and Cafe, Maclean

Ask any local where to get the best coffee and they’ll proudly point you to Botero , Maclean’s very own roastery, which supplies beans to cafes throughout Australia. The floor-to-ceiling windows inside the cafe give you a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the roastery in action, while the outdoor seating offers a fenced in play-area so you can supervise your kids while enjoying your coffee.

People enjoying food and drink at Botero Cafe, Maclean — Get acquainted with Maclean’s very own roastery. (Image: Destination NSW)

On the Bite, Maclean

This tiny cafe in the centre of Maclean is run by a husband and wife team who serve up an inventive, diverse menu. Choose between signature dishes such as a rich lamb korma, light and refreshing Asian salad, or Turkish plate with fresh, crunchy falafels.

On the Bite serves up an inventive, diverse menu

Sanctus Brewery Co., Townsend

This craft brewery has become an instant hit with the locals the moment it opened its doors (you’ll notice a much younger, trendier crowd here than at the town’s pubs).

Entrance to Sanctus Brewery, Townsend. — Stop by Sanctus Brewery in Townsend for great pizza and craft beers to match. (Image: Destination NSW)

The venue offers wide, open spaces, live music and experimental brews like pineapple coconut sour and blueberry crush as well as pale ale, lager and XPA. The large fenced field also makes Sanctus perfect for kids and pets.

Pizza at Sanctus Brewery in Townsend — Depending on the time of day, Sanctus Brewery in Townsend is an excellent lunch stop. (Image: Destination NSW)

Looking for more attractions to squeeze into your day trip itinerary? Check out these incredible waterfalls near Yamba.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

A local’s guide to Yamba, NSW