AUSTRALIA , OCEANIA , SYDNEY LIFE , TRAVEL

3 DAYS IN YAMBA NSW

Jun 29, 2021

Ahhh Yamba. The final stop on our summer New South Wales coastal road trip was a beaut. Hailed as “the next Byron Bay” Yamba is the ideal beach escape for those who like a destination with buzz, that isn’t overdeveloped. Since we spent the most time in this northern NSW town, I figured it deserved a dedicated post.

THINGS TO SEE + DO

Anyone could be very happy just finding a different one of Yamba’s 11 beaches to relax and go for a dip at each day. However, if you’re not much of a sunbather like me, here are some attractions to check out:

1. Yamba Breakwall / Turners Beach

Yamba Breakwall is an excellent location for dolphin spotting. If you’re patient, sightings are almost always guaranteed. We cycled to the end of the breakwall at dusk and saw not only a pod of dolphins but a turtle and a sea eagle too. It’s a completely free, natural wildlife viewing experience that’s not to be missed.

2. Yamba Lighthouse / Pilot Hill

Sitting atop Yamba’s highest hill, the Yamba lighthouse is one of the town’s main attractions and a must-see for any visitor. The original lighthouse was built in 1880 and later replaced by the current lighthouse in 1955. The view from Pilot Hill is nothing short of breathtaking. You can see stunning beaches up and down the coast and Clarence River to the west.

3. Sunrise Yoga @ Yamba Main Beach

Salty Soul Wellness runs sunrise yoga sessions every Wednesday at 6:30 am, by the Main beach ocean pool. A wonderful way to start the day. If an early morning flow isn’t your thing, Salty Soul also offer private surf lessons, or yoga and surf combo retreats.

4. Yamba Farmers + Producers Market

The weekly (Wednesday) farmers and producers market is located at the Whiting Beach Carpark next to Turners Beach and operates 7 – 11 am. Over 40 regional farmers, makers, bakers and producers showcase their premium produce. Be sure to grab a coffee and stock up on high-quality provisions here.

5. Visit Angourie

Famed for its surf break this long, ruggedly beautiful beach is my idea of perfection. It’s only a 5-10 mins drive south of Yamba. Unbelievably JJ and I saw only 2 other people on the entire length of Angourie Back Beach and we got to swim with dolphins! Go for a wander through Yuraygir National Park while you’re there for great birdwatching and some amazing vistas.

FOOD + DRINK

Breakfast / Lunch

Beachwood Cafe (22 High Street), is always busy for good reason. People flock to Beachwood for the friendly service and flavourful Turkish fare. JJ and I enjoyed the fresh Yamba prawns in chilli & garlic with salad and a side of braised broad beans. For dessert, we couldn’t resist a generous slice of homemade cake.

Yum Yum Angourie Cafe and General Store (29 Coldstream St), was originally a favourite Angourie venue that moved premises to downtown Yamba. The food is fresh and of course, you can find tasty local prawns on the menu alongside a number of other yummy options.

Dinner / Drinks

Sweeping 180-degree views of the ocean have labelled the Pacific Hotel a Yamba icon. There really is no better place in town for a couple of sundowners. Visit Thursday – Sunday to experience live performances and the ultimate holiday atmos.

Karrikin (27 Coldstream St), is named after the proteins that bind to soil and renew life in the aftermath of bushfire. This restaurant offers a frequently updated four-course set menu, crafted from seasonal ingredients. JJ and I dined in the garden under a frangipani tree which made for a lovely laid-back ambience. Every plate was absolutely delicious, served with a wine pairing and presented with flair – highly recommend!

WHERE WE STAYED

Accommodation options in Yamba are mostly self-catering, we stayed in 2 different Airbnbs. For our first 2 nights, we stayed in The Boathouse.

This spacious, 2-storey home has a panoramic view over the Clarence River and a private terrace frequented by native birds. With the free bikes provided, we were only ever a short ride away from Yamba’s beaches and town centre.

Indoors boasts; a comfy bedroom with luxurious king bed and aircon throughout. Modern shower with bath sheets and plush bathrobes. Flatscreen TVs, DVD and CD players in both the lounge and bedroom. Fully equipped kitchen as well as a Weber BBQ on the balcony. I’d 100% stay at the Boathouse again.

___________________________________________

On our last 2 nights, JJ and I stayed in The Loft Yamba. Practically on Pippi Beach, this was another brilliantly situated Airbnb with a slightly different vibe to the previous one.

With a snug loft bedroom, bathroom and one bunk room, The Loft is big enough to sleep six, while being cosy enough for just two. Styled in light, neutral tones with contemporary touches this property oozes coastal charm. There’s a fully equipped kitchen, TV, WiFi, washing machine and small balcony too. I wouldn’t hesitate to re-book in the future.

GETTING THERE

Yamba sits at the mouth of the Clarence River, a 7-8 hours drive north of Sydney, or 3-4 hours drive south of Brisbane. Greyhound Australia runs coaches to Yamba YHA from various east coast locations. Alternatively, Regional Express (Rex) operates regular flights from Sydney to nearby Grafton Airport.