This idyllic stretch of NSW will delight lovers of the outdoors of all persuasions, from stunning coastlines to lush hinterland rainforests. Not one for the outdoors? Don’t worry. This is a region with a thriving dining scene that you could easily visit just to eat and drink. This itinerary covers highlights across it all.
Distance: 3 Stops, 188 km total drive distance
📍 STOP 1: YAMBA
Where to stay in Yamba?
Blue Dolphin Resort is a fantastic combination of scenery, facilities and community and our recommendation for the area. Accommodation options are vast, with camp and caravan sites on synthetic grass (some with water views) as well as a range of cabins and villas with sizes up to 3 bedrooms and some pet friendly. This is a holiday park where kids will never run out of activities featuring Mini-Golf, a BMX/Scooter Track, Climbing Wall and of course pool complete with water park and various slides. Whilst the kids are in the pool, treat yourself to a drink at the swim-up pool bar!
What to do, eat and drink in Yamba?
Like everywhere along this coastline, Yamba is spoiled for beautiful beaches. For the kids, we recommend sticking to the shallower waters of the Main Beach, and for those looking for a bit more surf then head to Turner’s Beach. If you’ve got fishermen or women amongst you, you’re in the right place - head to any number of spots at the mouth of the Clarence River and you’ll be able to find Flathead, Mulloway and Rock Blackfish. If you’re keen to get out on the ocean, there’s plenty more to explore with various charters launching from Yamba - we highly recommend the team at Go Fish Yamba, a local family owned and operated charter group. If you haven’t caught something to cook, head to Sandbar Restaurant for an array of casual classics and a menu focused on local seafood and locally sourced produce.
What's the onward drive to Byron Bay?
An hour and a half in the car and you'll arrive at our next destination, Byron Bay.
📍 STOP 2: BYRON BAY
Where to stay in Byron Bay?
Continuing the group's streak of stunning locations, Reflections Byron Bay has to be one of the best situated holiday parks in Australia with absolute beachfront but still a comfortable 10 minute walk to the Byron town centre. There’s a range of accommodation options to suit all needs, from powered and unpowered sites through to glamping, villas and tiny homes. Note that due to the premium location, sites here do run more expensive than your average holiday park.
What to do, eat and drink in Byron Bay?
This is an area all about beaches and there’s plenty to choose from, whether you’re keen to surf or swim. Byron Bay Main Beach and Clarke’s Beach both have a bit of everything, if you’re keen specifically to surf then we recommend a short drive up to The Pass, and for those who want to take in the most picturesque water in the area, head to Wategos Beach which is ideal for families thanks to it’s protected waters. When you’re keen to get the heart pumping on dry land, then we recommend the walk up to the Lighthouse which includes beautiful views over the ocean. If you’ve got some foodies in your group, you’ve come to the right place with a huge range of cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs available. For cafe bites and coffee post a day at the beach (or takeaway before) our favourite is Top Shop, and when the sun is setting you’ll likely find us enjoying a cold drink at the Beach Hotel. There’s too many restaurants to choose from, but The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. has been a mainstay tucked away on a balcony in downtown Byron for many years for good reason. Think fresh seafood, great cocktails (try the Spiked Agua Fresca - a delicious blend of Don Julio Reposado, Watermelon & Mint Shrub, Lime and Agave) and of course, oysters.
What's the onward drive to Kingscliff?
Just 45 minutes on the road and you'll find yourself in Kingscliff.
📍 STOP 3: KINGSCLIFF
Where to stay in Kingscliff?
Tweed Holiday Parks Kingscliff Beach is situated on absolute beachfront, but this doesn’t compromise amenity thanks to a central location just minutes walk from cafes, restaurants and all that the Kingscliff town has to offer. All sites (both for tents and caravans) are powered and spacious, tent sites are on synthetic grass and caravan sites on concrete slabs to ensure ease of setup and maximum comfort. There are ensuite sites available but they are limited. If you’re after a cabin there are eight available, ranging from 2 to 3 bedroom and all with ocean views. Facilities wise, this is a very well maintained park and if you’re keen to cook on site you’ll find all you need in the camp kitchen and BBQ areas. If you want to explore a bit further but not take your car, bike hire is also available.
What to do, eat and drink in Kingscliff?
Kingscliff Beach is a beautiful sandy beach, with shallow waters in a lagoon area making it perfect for kids of all ages to safely swim. When it comes to eating, there’s plenty of great options - our favourite (and particularly suited to the climate) is Taverna. Serving classic greek dishes in a modern setting with stunning white washed walls and natural light, this is the restaurant of your summer holiday dreams. Stop by for a full meal or just a snack and a rink - we always find ourselves coming back for more of the Haloumi drizzled with honey. Keen to unwind? Head to The Spa at Salt to indulge in any number of treatments or simply have some downtime in the sauna or meditation room.
What's the onward drive?
This itinerary ends here.
