Skip to main content

Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

619 places

Explore local places

Iluka Emporium front deck

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Iluka Emporium

An eclectic art space featuring a range of distinctive local art, clothing, upcycled objects d'art, books and collectibles in the hearth of Iluka. They are a group of artists, upcyclers and collectors of unique and eclectic works. Step into their treasure trove to browse. Right next to the Laneway Cafe, they feature a local artist each month, with monthly exhibitions and workshops. Their beautiful front deck is often a place for local musicians to perform while passers-by relax with a coffee enjoying the ambience of Iluka Emporium. Five rooms are filled with original artworks and collectibles - original handmade ceramics, drawings, paintings, jewellery, clothing, Macrame, sculptures, mosaics, furniture, lamps, clocks, photographs, cards, prints and so much more. They welcome you to come in and browse, enjoy a chat with a local, pick up free maps of the area. Such a wonderful range you will find something special and original to take home.

Iluka NSW

0.2 km away

View place
Iluka Craft Shop

Shopping and Markets

Iluka Craft Shop

A wonderful array of woodwork, clothes, bags, homewares, collectibles, artworks, animal coats plus many other hand made items. Crafted by locals from both Iluka or Woombah for everyone to enjoy. Come in and have a look around, have a chat with some of the lovely locals and pick up a wonderfully handcrafted gift or keepsake.

Iluka NSW

0.2 km away

View place
Iluka Rainforest Walking Track

Natural Attractions

Iluka Rainforest Walking Track

Suitable for all ages, this short walk takes you through the lush rainforest to the spectacular views at Iluka Bluff, offering a fantastic way to see the vibrant life of the rainforest up close. As you leave the township of Iluka, it’s extraordinary how quickly you’re transported back in time in this ancient rainforest ecosystem. It’s no wonder it’s part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforests. There’s another beautiful large strangler fig ahead, intertwined with ferns and vines as it reaches up towards the tall canopy overhead. If you walk quietly, you might see or hear the brightly coloured noisy pitta and the sharp crack of the whipbird. After a leisurely stroll, you’ll arrive at Iluka Bluff Lookout with panoramic views and a great spot for picnicking and whale watching in the winter months. In the warmer months, why not have a swim or a snorkel by the beach before you head back to Iluka?

Iluka NSW

0.5 km away

View place
The Iluka Mermaid Sculpture

Landmarks and Buildings

The Iluka Mermaid Sculpture

The Iluka Mermaid, a captivating sculpture gracing the rock wall at the Trawler Harbour, was created around 1990 by a man restoring the historic timber boat The Derwent as a heartfelt gift to the Harbour. Over the years, this mermaid has become a cherished symbol of protection for those who venture out to sea, inspiring the local community and celebrated by artisans, locals, and visitors alike. Originally, she was made from unpainted concrete. Over the years, she's had several makeovers by community members. This artwork is a highlight on the Clarence Valley Public Art Trail, a self-guided journey connecting standout public artworks across the region. Be sure to check out the full trail and make it part of your travels through the Clarence Valley.

Iluka NSW

0.6 km away

View place
Interior

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Iluka Library

If you're visiting Iluka, drop in at Iluka Library and discover Iluka's Local History collection offering historic insights into the history of Iluka and the surrounding villages. You can also take advantage of the free library services on offer. Come for a read, check your emails on their free computers, read the paper, charge up your devices in the secure charging stations, get free tech help and enjoy free WiFi. You can also drop by their Knitwits knitting group, weekly storytime session for children and Friday chess club. During school holidays, Iluka Library also offers a free school holiday program for kids. If you're looking for local tips on things to do in Iluka or tourist information, ask their friendly staff. They're happy to point you in the right direction. Plenty of free parking is available, and also public toilets.

Iluka NSW

0.7 km away

View place
Iluka Nature Reserve

National Parks and Reserves

Iluka Nature Reserve

Located in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, Iluka Nature Reserve is a gateway to stunning coastline and World Heritage-listed rainforest. It's 136ha in size, but packed with natural wonders. Experience the peaceful rainforest as you stroll under tall canopy along Iluka Rainforest walking track. This is part of the largest remaining stand of littoral 'by the sea' rainforest in NSW, and supports over 140 bird species, and a variety of plants. Iluka is a very popular destination for avid birdwatchers and walkers alike. Head to Iluka Bluff for spectacular views, a picnic by the beach and a chance to spot migrating whales heading north during the winter months. While you're there, why not enjoy fishing and swimming by the beach and snorkelling around the rocky coastline? With so much to do, why not camp or book a cottage at neighbouring Bundjalung National Park, to make the most of your visit.

Iluka NSW

0.9 km away

View place
Overlooking Bluff Beach
Image credit: My Clarence Valley

Natural Attractions

Bluff Beach

Iluka's Bluff Beach, on the north coast of NSW, is a glorious location and possibly a favourite, simply for the quality of its amenities. The picnic area has a whale-watching platform that offers 360-degree views along the coast and inland over the treetops of the World Heritage-Listed Iluka Nature Reserve Rainforest. The southern end has a large car park and the beach is patrolled during the summer holidays. It's nicely sheltered from the southerly elements of wind and waves, though is a little less predicable when the north-easterly springs up. Bluff Beach offers car parking, picnic tables, toilets, information displays, and access to the Rainforest walk. The 2.5-kilometre walking track takes you through the diverse ecosystem of the largest remaining stand of Littoral rainforest in New South Wales. ('Littoral' is just a fancy name for 'Coastal', by the way.)

Iluka NSW

1.3 km away

View place
The break wall that politely escorts the Clarence River out to sea.
Image credit: My Clarence Valley

Natural Attractions

Iluka Main Beach

Iluka's Main Beach is 2.5 kilometres of pure beach joy! The extreme south end, up against the rock wall that herds the Clarence River out to sea, is a surf spot of unique note – incoming swells refract off the rock wall and ricochet back, creating an unusually powerful 'wedge' shaped wave. Unpatrolled waters can be unpredictable. Choose patrolled beaches (Bluff Beach, Iluka) for a safer experience and swim only between the flags. From the north end of main beach you can history spot with remains of an old railway track sometimes visible at low tide. There is even the occasional wheel emerging from the sands. This is a remnant from the tramway built to carry rocks from the headland to create the wall at the north end of the beach in the late 1800s. There's also some pretty cool rock formations to check out. And in-between these bookends? Iluka Main beach is dog friendly, and 4WD friendly at low tide, but council permission must be sought. It's a big, broad, robust beauty of a thing. The carpark includes a shower and toilets, so you can wash off before heading to pick up fish and chips for lunch from the nearby takeaway!

Iluka NSW

1.7 km away

View place
Iluka Break Wall

Natural Attractions

Iluka Break Wall

Created to help stabilise the bar for the ocean fleet, the Iluka Break Wall is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. With views of nearby Yamba in the distance, don't forget to look down and see what you can discover amongst the waves and rocks. Legend has it the dolphins love following the trawlers to get an easy feed so keep your eyes peeled. Recent refurbishments have upgraded this facility repair the years of the relentless pounding of the waves. On a calm day, walk to the end of this impressive structure while keeping a mindful eye on the crashing waves from the left and onto Main beach. On the right side, there are the remains of an old fishing trawler and the shape of the wreck below can be spotted in the calmer weather. The wall is a great spot for fishermen to cast from in the protected waters. The creation of the "Wall" also resulted in producing an impressive wave for the talented local and visiting surfers.

Iluka NSW

1.9 km away

View place
Iluka Bluff Lookout

Natural Attractions

Iluka Bluff Lookout

The platform at Iluka Bluff lookout is perfectly positioned for an aerial view of the entire Bundjalung area, complete with a soundscape of waves crashing onto the rocky bluff walls below. The mouth of one of the region’s largest waterways, the Clarence River, lies just south, and to the north, you’ll see glorious beaches and Woody Head. It’s a great place to see dolphins cruising around near the mouth of the river and whales on the annual migration along the coast, so be sure to take your binoculars. Stop for a quick look on your travels along the north coast or bring a picnic and stay for longer. There is an undercover picnic shelter a short walk from the lookout.

Iluka NSW

2.1 km away

View place
Shark Bay picnic area

Natural Attractions

Shark Bay picnic area

For a family day at the beach, head to Shark Bay picnic area, just 5mins drive from Iluka on the NSW north coast. Sheltered from ocean winds, this quiet and secluded spot is perfect for summer barbecues. Park right at the picnic area and spread your picnic blanket on the grass, or set up at a nearby picnic table. Relax and enjoy the sounds of butcher birds calling and cicadas humming. It's easy for parents to see the kids playing safely on the grassy area, shaded and separated from the beach by a fringe of dune-side rainforest. Bring a ball and bat for a game of cricket on the grass or head to the beach for a swim in Shark Bay's sparkling blue water. Protected from big ocean waves by a headland and fringing reef, it's also a lovely spot for some beach fishing. If you're not ready to leave, there's Woody Head just 3 minutes walk away, with its campsites, cottages and cabins. Base yourself here for local adventures like the Esk River paddle route or 4WD trips on Ten Mile Beach.

The Freshwater NSW

2.3 km away

View place
Frazers Reef

Natural Attractions

Frazers Reef

Frazers Reef picnic area is in Bundjalung National Park, near the Iluka Bluff lookout. Escape to this beautiful oceanside location for a picnic or enjoy a surfing, wind surfing and kitesurfing session. Frazers Reef picnic area makes it easy to enjoy this pristine North Coast surf location. Park then set up at one of the 2 picnic tables, or spread out the grassy area for a tasty feast. With toilets nearby, it's easy for the whole family to linger and relax.

Iluka NSW

2.4 km away

View place
Pilot Hill and the Lighthouse, keeping an eye on Turners Beach.
Image credit: My Clarence Valley

Natural Attractions

Turners Beach

On the north coast NSW, Yamba's Turners Beach is a popular swimming and surfing beach in Yamba NSW patrolled during the summer season. It is ideally located between the South Break Wall (great for fishing) and the lighthouse; there is a path and steps from the beach leading up to the lighthouse. The Break Wall is a popular fishing spot and perfect for a light stroll. The present lighthouse was built in 1955 and offers stunning views of the Clarence River Mouth and coastline, this location is also part of the Lower Clarence Aboriginal Tourist Site Drive. Here you can read the Dreamtime story of the Giant Eel which travelled through the Clarence Valley creating the Clarence River. Car parking, toilets and picnic facilities are all available at Turners Beach; it is also a short stroll to the shops and cafes.

Yamba NSW

2.8 km away

View place
'Furcula' Wishbones Sculpture in Yamba edit
Image credit: Artist Cass Samms

Landmarks and Buildings

Furcula Wishbones Sculpture in Yamba

Cass Samms 'Furcula' 2011 is four stylised bronze wishbone pieces that interconnect with one another creating an interactive space. The sculpture which is approximately 1.6m wide, 2.7m long and 1m high sits on the edge of the rocks overlooking the beach and river crossing. The Furcula or wishbones are inspired by the old tradition of pulling a wishbone with a friend to make a wish. These wishbones will bring luck for a safe crossing of the river mouth to the sea. This artwork is a highlight on the Clarence Valley Public Art Trail, a self-guided journey connecting standout public artworks across the region. Be sure to check out the full trail and make it part of your travels through the Clarence Valley.

Yamba NSW

2.9 km away

View place
Yamba Lighthouse

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Yamba Lighthouse

Lighting the way for over 100 years, you get a beautiful view from the grassland that surrounds the Yamba lighthouse on Yaegl Country. A perfect spot for a picnic after a day at the beach or for gobbling down some local fish and chips, a spot of whale watching when in season, and watching the full moon rise. Stories about the first lighthouse seem to vary a little but it seems that there was first a rudimentary structure of a platform with a kerosene lamp on it on the most easterly part of Pilot Hill. This was replaced in 1866 by a small wooden humpy whose shutters were opened each night to dispense the rays of a large kerosene lamp placed on a bench. It was in the same place as the first and next to the flagstaff. Tenders were called in 1878 and a permanent light was built in 1880 by W. Kinnear at a cost of 1,097 pounds.

Yamba NSW

2.9 km away

View place
Sunrise reclaims the shadows at Whiting Beach.
Image credit: My Clarence Valley

Natural Attractions

Whiting Beach Yamba

Whiting Beach is the most sheltered beach in the Clarence Valley. By the time the ocean swell has made its way up the Clarence Rivermouth and hung a left turn towards Whiting Beach, it's forgotten what it was so angry about most of the time and just wants to tickle the ankles of anyone loitering at the water's edge. Whiting Beach is a short stroll from town, picnic tables, car parking, toilet facilities and showers are all provided. The beach isn't patrolled, so as always, please exercise common sense and caution when in the water. Best not to stray out too far as it is a tidal zone. Safety message- Unpatrolled waters can be unpredictable. Choose patrolled beaches for a safer experience and swim only between the flags. Avoid jumping into unknown water depths or areas with unseen hazards. Be aware of currents, rocks, and sudden drops, and always make sure you're swimming in safe areas.

Yamba NSW

3.1 km away

View place
Country Style Surfboards

Shopping and Markets

Countrystyle Surf

Life's better in board shorts. Reflecting the Sand and Surf of Yamba and Angourie. Country Style Surfboards supply a range of surf fashion and beachwear, shoes, as well as Street boards and Angourie Surfboards. For your summer and winter surf style fix, come along and have a look at their range.

Yamba NSW

3.1 km away

View place
Pilot Hill - Clarence River Lighthouse Replica
Image credit: John Warrell

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Yamba Historical Walks

Retrace the steps of the explorer Matthew Flinders as you make your way around Yamba, exploring the historical highlights and landmarks such as the Flinders Well, the Yamba Lighthouse, and the Yamba Historical Museum. There are two self-guided walking tours available: The 'Up Down and All Around' (medium grade, four-kilometre walk) to discover the historical sites on Yamba Hill and the 'Sea Level Stroll' (easy grade, five-kilometre walk) for the sites on Yamba's flat lands. All the walks start and finish at the Yamba Museum, next to the Yamba Golf and Country Club. Pick up your copies of the Yamba Historical Walks guides at The Yamba Museum, or scan a QR code or DCM code into your handheld device from the special museum postcards, and access historical photos and information as you travel around Yamba.

Yamba NSW

3.2 km away

View place
Port of Yamba Yacht Club - PYYC
Image credit: Port of Yamba Yacht Club - PYYC

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Port of Yamba Yacht Club

The Port of Yamba Yacht Club regularly sails in the lower Clarence River all year round. Safe sailing for all ages in all types of sailing boats from ocean-going keel boats to off-the-beach dinghies. The Club House is open Friday nights, race days and special occasions. The Club races on the lower Clarence River every Wednesday and once a month on Sunday (excluding July/August). They also host Regattas each year and sail with all sorts of boats including keel boats, trailer-sailors and off-the-beach boats. Port of Yamba Yacht Club have large social contingent with most events taking place at the Club House at Yamba Marina, and occasional during cruises. The Club is fully licensed and open every race day and Friday nights. Visitors are always welcome for a drink, a chat and a sail. Their calendar of events, monthly newsletter and more information is available on their website.

Yamba NSW

3.2 km away

View place
Interior

Shopping and Markets

Yamba Wholefoods

Yamba has a new wholefood shop. The new owner is Sarah and she is also a clinical nutritionist, Mum (and unpaid taxi driver), wife, nature lover and foodie. Owning a wholefoods has been a dream of Sarah's for a long time. She is passionate about good quality food, body and home products. Sarah is also keen to do her bit in reducing her impact on the earth. As a nutritionist, she loves guiding you on ways you can best support your health and well-being through food. It is so rewarding for Sarah to help you navigate or transition to a whole-food-based lifestyle." Pop in on your next visit to Yamba!

Yamba NSW

3.2 km away

View place
Internal view of the yamba library showcasing shelving and view of the kids areas ceiling.
Image credit: Clarence Regional LIbrary

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Yamba Library

If you’re visiting Yamba, add Yamba Library to your list of places to visit. It’s just across the road from the Yamba Bowlo. At the library, you can discover Yamba’s Local History collection offering insights into the history of Yamba and surrounding villages. You can also take advantage of the free library services on offer. Come in for a read, check your emails on their free computers, read the paper, charge up your devices in the secure charging stations, get free tech help and enjoy the free WiFi. Visitors are welcome to join the Knitwits knitting group, weekly storytime session for children or writers group. During school holidays Yamba Library also offers a free school holiday program for kids. If you’re looking for local tips on things to do in Yamba or tourist information, ask the friendly staff. They’re happy to point you in the right direction. Free parking is available and also public toilets.

Yamba NSW

3.2 km away

View place
The Art-House Yamba

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Art-House Yamba

Local artist Jennifer Grace invites you to view a collection of contemporary artwork at her home studio in the heart of Yamba. Jennifer's sensitive figurative and abstract paintings—created in acrylic and oil on linen, canvas, or beechwood—range from intimate 30cm pieces to striking 120cm square statement works. High-quality giclée prints are also available to order. Deeply thoughtful, the collection explores reconnection to the natural world within an increasingly artificial human environment. Step inside to discuss the creative process and find the perfect piece for your collection.

Yamba NSW

3.2 km away

View place
Yamba Cinema Mid North Coast NSW
Image credit: Yamba Cinema NSW

Entertainment Venues

Yamba Cinema

Yamba Cinema in the Mid North Coast NSW,is a charming old-school movie theatre that's been keeping the town entertained for years. It screens all the latest films, making it the perfect spot for both locals and visitors to catch a flick. The vibe is relaxed, and the candy bar serves up all your favorite cinema snacks, including some seriously good Choc Tops. What sets Yamba Cinema apart is its status as one of the few fully independent, family‑run cinemas in the country. It keeps ticket prices accessible and emphasises community spirit, nurturing a genuine local connection. Yamba Cinema also hosts several Film Festivals throughout the year, giving visitors rare access to hand‑picked films and taking you on a worldwide tour, for your imagination. Classic movie nights take you back in time to the era of hollywood glamour and nostalgia! Yamba Cinema is the ideal place to meet the girls for a catch-up, cocktail and fun night out. Whether you're a movie buff or just looking for a cozy night out, Yamba Cinema delivers a nostalgic experience with a modern twist.

Ferodale NSW

3.3 km away

View place
Yamba Main Beach and Ocean Pool
Image credit: My Clarence Valley

Natural Attractions

Yamba Main Beach and Ocean Pool

With the archetypal east coast 'ocean pool' built into the rocks at its southern end, one of NSW's oldest Surf Lifesaving clubs centre-stage, and the iconic Pacific Hotel overlooking it all, Yamba's Main Beach is so quaint, lovely and Australian you can't help but grin when you're there. Main Beach used to be called Wooli Bay and was also known as Andersons or Grahams Beach because of the boarding houses that overlooked it. The beach is patrolled on weekends and during school holidays between September and Easter, and has well-considered disabled access.

Yamba NSW

3.3 km away

View place

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Explore Events

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.