Things to Do in the Clarence Valley This Christmas School Holidays
Long summer days, salty hair, and easy coastal living—that’s the Clarence Valley in holiday mode. From Yamba, Iluka, Brooms Head, Minnie Water, and Wooli, our parks put you close to patrolled beaches, river adventures, national park hikes, and local markets that are trending with families right now
What’s trending this summer!
- Yamba is “the next Byron” (without the crowds): multiple travel outlets and social chatter are calling Yamba a quieter, authentic alternative—with Main Beach ocean pool, Pippi and Turners topping wishlists for family swims and sunrise strolls.
- Sustainable & low‑impact adventures: visitors are actively seeking eco‑friendly ways to explore—guided walks, paddle tours, and “leave‑no‑trace” tips are resonating.
- Yuraygir Coastal Walk mini‑sections: the 65km track is trending in short, bite‑size segments (family‑friendly slices near Angourie, Brooms Head, Minnie Water & Wooli).
- Wooli river & coastal vibes: kayak or SUP on glassy mornings, snorkel/dive days, and lazy river picnics are getting love—great for mixed‑age groups.
- Local events & markets: Yamba–Iluka Christmas Boat, farmers’ markets, and gallery exhibitions are drawing families for easy, culture‑rich afternoons.
Swim & Beach Days (close to our parks)
Yamba Main Beach (ocean pool) – Patrolled in the summer season; perfect for kids and an iconic dip after brekkie at The Kiosk. Pair it with a lighthouse stroll for big views.
Pippi & Turners – Sunrise walks, gentle surf, and family‑friendly facilities. Pippi’s southern end is popular with dog owners; Turners is a go‑to for swimming and fishing along the breakwall.
Angourie Blue & Green Pools – A classic cool‑down after a short Angourie headland walk. Note: the pools can temporarily close in warmer months due to algae—signage is posted onsite; the adjacent saltwater rock pool is a great backup at high tide.
Lake Arragan & Red Cliff (near Brooms Head) – Sandy beaches with deep gutters and picnic spots inside Yuraygir National Park. Expect laid‑back swims and easy walks.
Short Walks & Easy Nature Time
Angourie to Mara Creek (taste of Yuraygir) – Do a short, scenic section for headlands, wildflowers, and secluded coves—perfect for families who want a “mini‑adventure.”
Iluka Rainforest Walk to Bluff Lookout – 2.6 km under World Heritage canopy; dolphins from the headland are a common bonus (bring binoculars).
Minnie Water → Diggers Camp – Rugged coastline, quieter beaches, and picnic nooks—great for photography and nature‑spotting without long drive times.
Park note: Yuraygir currently has alerts (baiting program; some access changes). Always check NPWS local alerts before you go.
River, Paddle & Eco Adventures
Kayak/SUP on the Wooli River – Early mornings are glassy; go with the tide for an effortless return. Expect sandbars at low tide and heaps of birdlife.
Wooli & Solitary Islands Marine Park – Book a snorkel or dive charter to see coral, rays, and reef fish—an easy add‑on day trip from our southern parks.
Sustainable adventures – Choose low‑impact tours and simple switches (reusables, stick to tracks, follow local cultural guidance). Great planning resource below
Fishing Spots Guests Rave About
Red Cliff → Brooms Head – Target Flathead, Bream, Whiting, Australian Salmon; dream catch is a Jewfish. Bait: pilchards, prawns, yabbies, pipis, worms. Lures: metal or soft plastics. (Grab a fishing license before you cast.)
Turners breakwall & Wooli Wooli River – Easy access for kids/first‑timers; ask local bait shops for current gutters and tide times.
Easy Day Trips & What’s On
Yamba ↔ Iluka ferry – Scenic river cruise, plus themed history and live‑music days over the holidays.
Markets & galleries – Weekly Yamba Farmers’ Market, riverside markets, and summer exhibitions at Grafton Regional Gallery—perfect for slower afternoons.
Yamba–Iluka Christmas Boat – A nightly, family favourite along the river (December–early January). Check dates before you go hunting
Quick Safety & Conditions
- Swim between the flags: Choose patrolled beaches for the safest dips; ocean pools are great for kids.
- Yuraygir alerts: Check NPWS for baiting and access changes before walks and river crossings.
- UV is extreme: Summer UV regularly hits high/very high—sun protection is a must.
Where to Base Your Adventure (from our parks)
- Calypso Yamba Holiday Park: Walk to Main Beach, ocean pool, marina, and markets. Ideal for car‑free days.
- Iluka Riverside Holiday Park: Perfect for Iluka Bluff Lookout, World Heritage rainforest walks, and easy ferry trips to Yamba. A quiet base with stunning river views and local cafés nearby.
- Brooms Head Holiday Park: Close to Lake Arragan/Red Cliff for swims, picnics, and that classic coastal vibe.
- Minnie Water Holiday Park & Wooli Holiday Park: Best access to Yuraygir’s central section, Wooli Wooli River, and Solitary Islands Marine Park.