Yamba, NSW
Don’t tell anyone we told you this, but we’re about to disclose what is probably the east coast of Australia’s best-kept secret. Don’t go telling everyone about it, but if you get a chance you absolutely must visit Yamba, on NSW central coast. Yamba is located at the mouth of the Clarence River, the biggest river on the east coast of Australia; hidden well away from the busy Pacific Highway. Being 20km from the highway makes sure that there isn’t a great deal of through traffic coming into the town. A popular spot for visitors from the Gold Coast and Brisbane, it’s far enough away to feel like you’re on holiday, yet close enough to get to by check in time if you leave at breakfast. In fact, it is the perfect long weekend getaway for keen anglers living just north (or south) of the border.
The Clarence River mouth is home to two small towns, one of which is Yamba, the other being Iluka. Now if you’re standing on the banks of each town, you can see the other, yet it is a 40km drive to get there. The only shortcuts - by ferry, by boat, by kayak or to swim. They are both beautiful little places completely happy to stay small and unmolested by developers, and when you visit, and you will; you will understand why.
Fishing is real business in town, however the village charm, unspoiled beaches, and beautiful national parks deliver one of the most unique experiences for the whole family.
Yamba is lined with affordable accommodation options, with the most impressive being the BIG4 Saltwater Caravan Park which is set on 130 acres of pristine parkland running alongside the Clarence River. The accommodation will cater for everyone you want to take. If you are camping alone, they offer a good availability of waterfront camping spots. They offer large grass and slab powered sites, as well as large grass unpowered sites in two different camping areas.
Most of the slab sites are extremely large which means they’re more than suitable for people with anything from caravans and motorhomes to tents and camper trailers. The best part about the caravan park from my point of view, is that they have free kayaks for the guests – I took the whole family and only needed to take one yak for myself.
The Clarence River mouth is home to two small towns, one of which is Yamba, the other being Iluka. Now if you’re standing on the banks of each town, you can see the other, yet it is a 40km drive to get there. The only shortcuts - by ferry, by boat, by kayak or to swim. They are both beautiful little places completely happy to stay small and unmolested by developers, and when you visit, and you will; you will understand why.
Fishing is real business in town, however the village charm, unspoiled beaches, and beautiful national parks deliver one of the most unique experiences for the whole family.
Yamba is lined with affordable accommodation options, with the most impressive being the BIG4 Saltwater Caravan Park which is set on 130 acres of pristine parkland running alongside the Clarence River. The accommodation will cater for everyone you want to take. If you are camping alone, they offer a good availability of waterfront camping spots. They offer large grass and slab powered sites, as well as large grass unpowered sites in two different camping areas.
Most of the slab sites are extremely large which means they’re more than suitable for people with anything from caravans and motorhomes to tents and camper trailers. The best part about the caravan park from my point of view, is that they have free kayaks for the guests – I took the whole family and only needed to take one yak for myself.