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)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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.

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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.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast, however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed. Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s.

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics. Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare. One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

A local’s guide to 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’.

Where is it?