Is This Australia’s Best Kept Secret?

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I feel like we have discovered Australia’s best kept secret.

Actually, we may be a little late in the discovery. I think the cat was already let out of the bag after it appeared on the best tourist town in Australia list by the Australian Traveller magazine.

The truth is, we almost didn’t come. We only came because of the Legendary Pacific Coast Drive’s recommendation.

Thank God they know what they are talking about when it comes to great places to visit on your holiday along the NSW North Coast.

If you’re not familiar with Yamba, it’s a small coastal town in northern New South Wales, on the mouth of the Clarence River.

It’s known for its beautiful beaches and great surf, as well as relaxing and quiet surrounding countryside.

If you’re thinking of visiting Yamba, New South Wales but you’re not sure what it’s all about, this guide will tell you everything you need to know…

Where is Yamba?

Yamba is a small town on the East Coast of Australia in the New South Wales province.

It’s approximately 279km south of Brisbane, 220 km South of the Gold Coast, and 126km south of Byron Bay.

From Byron Bay, it’s a 1.5 hours drive to Yamba via M1 and Pacific Highway/A1.

And if you are travelling north from Sydney, it’s a 7 hour drive (666 km) up the Pacific Highway.

The closest airport to Yamba is Clarence Valley Regional Airport, which is located on the outskirts of Grafton a 50min drive north from Yamba.

It sits between two national parks, the Bundjalung National Park and Yuraygir National Park.

Is Yamba Worth Visiting?

We visited Yamba in New South Wales 12 years prior and just did not feel the vibe. As I walked around falling in love with Yamba today, I tried to work out why that was.

Was it because I had changed so much or the town? I’m sure it is a bit of both.

As soon as we pulled into Coldstream Street where the YHA backpackers is – I felt the vibe.

Most visitors come to Yamba for the beaches and fishing, especially the baby boomer crowd. But it also has amazing surfing spots, which attracts more younger people and a thriving surf crowd.

You know that feeling you get when you know you have arrived in a special place? A place that just leaves its mark as one of your best travel experiences you had, yet never expected.

Shane, one of the co-owners of the…