After a glorious few days spent in Byron surfing Belongil, The Pass and Broken Head we headed further down the coast to Yamba and Angourie to shoot our March collection; Golden Daze. We all agreed if we could have a holiday house anywhere in the world it would be here. There are the cutest Air Bnb's that have rustic yet sophisticated styling, amazing cafes full of local produce and warm smiles and in general the tiny town oozes a cool coastal vibe perfect for appreciating the Autumn weather.
Yamba is the perfect place to situate yourself for 48 hours and has a small coastal village charm, pristine beaches, a myriad of waterways and lots of cute cafes. Also, did you know Yamba has been declared as having the best climate in the world. That means it’s not too hot and not too cold… year round. No big deal.
EAT
If you are anything like us, we don’t like wasting a good meal and always jump at the chance to stuff ourselves silly. For a tiny town Yamba doesn’t disappoint when it comes to good grub.
Pacific Hotel
This place should probably be your first port of call when you touch down in Yamba. With epic views of the Pacific Ocean, you can get your very own surf report while indulging in some fuss free food in a friendly atmosphere.
Leche Café
Leche café is all about fresh wholesome food for your tum, live music to soothe your soul and spot-on service. The menu is incredibly tasty and the dishes are so god damn pretty, you will be more than revived after your drive.
Beachwood Café
Breakkie at Beachwood Café is a no brainer. Mediterranean and Middle-eastern style food, amazing ambience as well as a host with the most! Sevtap takes pride in her Turkish roots and even has her own cookbook. Now that’s saying something!
The Mexican
A dinner spot guaranteed for good times….When tacos, tequila and a bunch of fun locals are involved, it’s bound to get messy. Recipes that are authentic and time-tested and incorporate local ingredients make this one of the most tastiest Mexican meals ever.
Uptown Café & Bar
Offering great coffee, breakfast, smoothies and juices by day and the most unreal cocktails by night over candlelight. This is the perfect spot to perch in-between dinner and dancing where the bartenders truly know their wines, craft beers and luxe liquors.
Yamba Fudge Shop
The lovely lady who makes this fudge is NOT lying when she says you will be back for more. Save yourself the trouble and just get a month’s worth at your first visit. Creamy, velvety and freaking fantastic, good luck trying to choose just one flavour.
SHOP
Because when on holiday right?
Yamba Surf Centre
You can’t head to a surf town without visiting the local surf shop. Yamba Surf Centre is an authentic surf shop that has everything you need for a beach weekend from board shorts and bikinis, and even fleece and beanies.
Island Collective
A store you would want to live in; a dreamy mix of bohemian homewares that ooze luxe island living. They now have their very own island café, known as the Jungalow. Specialising in sushi, light snacks and great coffee. You have no reason to ever leave.
Revival Yamba
A music, art, surf and lifestyle shop that brings things from the past to present, where old school is the new cool and vintage vibes reign supreme. With a carefully curated brand and product selection, it’s safe to say you won’t walk out empty handed.
Lone Rock Wholefoods
One of those health food shops where you go in for clean eats and come out with nothing but treats. Stock up on the best dried mango in the biz. It’s all the way from North Queensland and probably the 2nd best way to eat a mango. First is fresh, no less.
PLAY
Yamba Markets
If you time your visit right you can experience the Yamba Markets on the 4th Sunday of every month. They are located at Ford Park, on the foreshore of the Clarence River and are an eclectic mix of local and regional food, arts and craft with a focus on handmade products.
Picnic by Yamba Main beach
Take your blanket and basket down to the Main Beach, or prop yourself on the grassy cliff. Prawns fresh from Yamba’s Fisho, a loaf of sourdough from Brooks family bakery, washed down with a bevvie and topped off with some of the best fudge to ever hit your tastebuds = Picnic done right.
Explore Angourie Beaches
Only a short 10 minute drive away is Angourie Point, Spooky Beach and the blue pool; a very deep and popular freshwater swimming hole. Angourie Beach is a National Surfing Reserve and a piece of paradise that should definitely be ticked off the list.
Walk along Pippi Beach to the Lighthouse
Pippi Beach is another popular surf and fishing beach and is an idyllic spot to walk along towards the lighthouse. If the ocean is a little raw and rough then cool off by jumping in the ocean pool on the Main Beach. So much yes in Yamba!
Surf at Tunnels or Main Beach
Of course you can’t go to Yamba without getting salty. We had perfect little sliders the days we were there, with no one else out. We surfed both Tunnels and Main Beach and had so much fun on the longboards. If you want something a bit more advanced, then head around to Angourie – a National surfing reserve.
STAY
Right across the road from Main Beach is the cutest light and bright, airy apartment. Styled the colours of the sea, and furnished white and natural wood it exudes coastal charm. The perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
A 110 year old restored cottage is now an incredibly stylish and modern Air BNB made for entertaining. With a games room, sound system, coffee machine and the capacity to sleep 16, you will be looking for a reason to have the ultimate getaway.
We didn’t stay at this Air Bnb but we wish we did. We only shot here for a few hours and it was styled to absolute perfection. It’s an original 1970s seaside shack furnished with vintage pieces to keep the nostalgic feel of the place. It has 3 bedrooms, sleeping 6 and is the perfect place to rest your salty bones after a day exploring Yamba.
Nestled amongst lush subtropical rainforest between Yamba and Angourie this oasis among the trees boasts a Day Spa, tennis courts, a gym, playground, on-site restaurant and a pristine pool. There’s actually no need to step foot outside this retreat.
If something a little more laid back is a bit more your style, then we suggest getting familiar with the Yamba Holiday Park. Boasting 130 acres of riverside parkland and forest there is plenty of space to pitch your tent and lots of facilities for some family fun.
