Located at the mouth of the Clarence River on the NSW North Coast, Yamba is a coastal paradise where holiday dreams come to life. The town boasts pristine beaches, world-class surf breaks, and marine parks teeming with dolphins, turtles, and migrating whales, all framed by nearby national parks and wilderness reserves. Beyond its natural wonders, Yamba offers boutique shopping, a vibrant foodie scene, and the laid-back charm that makes it one of Australia’s most desirable seaside destinations.
Yamba, NSW is a vibrant coastal town with a population of 6,405 (2021), showing steady growth of 5.4% since 2016. Renowned for its fishing industry, tourism, and popularity as a retirement destination, Yamba has a high median age of 57, with a large proportion of residents aged 65 and over. At the same time, the town has seen a rise in younger adults aged 18–24, highlighting its appeal across generations. This unique mix of retirees, families, and young people shapes Yamba’s thriving community and contributes to its reputation as one of the most attractive coastal destinations in New South Wales.
APPROXIMATE
POPULATION
PRISTINE
BEACHES
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NORTH OF
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Yamba is home to eleven beautiful beaches
- Yamba Main Beach
- Turners Beach
- Pippi Beach
- Whiting Beach
- Convent Beach / McKittricks Beach
- Barri Beach (locally known as Dump Beach)
- Flat Rock (Barri Point)
Nearby beaches include Angourie Bay, Angourie Point, Shelley Beach, Caves and Back Beach

Yamba’s economy is strongly linked to its natural resources. Fishing and aquaculture—especially prawn trawling and oyster farming—play a vital role, alongside agriculture, with sugarcane and cattle farming supporting the broader Clarence Valley. Tourism is also a major driver, fuelled by Yamba’s pristine beaches, coastal lifestyle, and small-town charm. Though not a traditional primary industry, tourism brings steady growth and employment. Together, these industries position Yamba as both an economic hub and a highly sought-after coastal destination in New South Wales.

Yuraygir National Park is home to the critically endangered Coastal Emu, within the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in NSW. The Yuraygir Coastal Walk follows the ancient paths once traced by these birds. The park provides vital habitat for this unique, genetically isolated population, which plays a key role in seed dispersal but faces threats from vehicles, predators, and habitat loss. Visitors can support conservation by respecting emu-friendly fencing and reporting sightings to the Clarence Conversations Coastal Emu Register.

Yamba offers diverse accommodation, including beachfront motels, holiday parks with family-friendly amenities, powered caravan sites and boutique stays, catering to various budgets. Options range from coastal resorts with ocean views to self-contained holiday homes, apartments, and camping grounds, providing the perfect base to explore Yamba’s beaches, Yuraygir National Park, fishing spots, and local food scene, plus its vibrant markets and festivals. Whether planning a weekend escape or group getaway, Yamba accommodation delivers comfort, convenience and authentic coastal charm.
Discover more about the region by exploring My Clarence Valley — click below to learn more