Yamba & The Jacarandas
Days:
8 Days
Activity:
3. Active Moderate
Transport:
Bus
$2,995.00
Tour description
Experience the magic of northern New South Wales in spring, when the jacarandas bloom and the coast comes alive with colour. Journey with us from Sydney to Yamba, blending scenic drives, charming towns, and the relaxed rhythm of coastal life. Along the way, we explore pristine beaches, tranquil river towns, lush hinterland, and vibrant communities filled with history and heart.
Wander beneath Grafton’s famous purple canopy, cruise the Clarence River, and soak up the easy-going charm of seaside towns like Yamba, Iluka, and Byron Bay. With welcoming stays, gentle touring, and time to simply enjoy the view, this tour captures the very best of regional hospitality and natural beauty.
Itinerary
We depart Sydney and journey north along the Pacific Highway, passing through rolling countryside and coastal plains. Our first stop is at the beautiful Hunter Botanic Gardens, where we enjoy morning tea surrounded by tranquil bushland and native blooms.
Continuing north, we pause at Harrington Waters for a leisurely lunch overlooking peaceful waterways and the gentle rhythms of coastal life. Later, we arrive in Port Macquarie, a charming seaside town known for its beaches and relaxed atmosphere. After checking into our hotel, we come together over dinner, sharing in the friendly spirit that sets the tone for the days ahead.
Overnight: Rydges Port Macquarie
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we take a short tour around Port Macquarie, admiring its coastal views and historic charm before continuing north. We pause for morning tea at Nambucca Heads, where sweeping ocean vistas and the meandering river provide a peaceful backdrop.
Travelling on to Coffs Harbour, we visit the delightful Butterfly House, wandering among tropical gardens alive with colour and gentle wingbeats. Here, we also enjoy lunch before our journey continues through lush countryside to Yamba, our coastal home for the next five nights. This evening, we settle into our resort and share dinner together.
Overnight: Angourie Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, we set out to explore the relaxed coastal towns of Yamba and Angourie, where golden beaches and surfside scenery capture the region’s easy-going charm. We pause for morning tea at the picturesque Angourie Blue Pool, a peaceful spot where freshwater meets the sea. Later, we board the Clarence River ferry for a scenic cruise, enjoying a light lunch on board as we take in tranquil waterways and lush riverbanks. Returning mid-afternoon, there’s time to unwind before dinner at the resort.
Overnight: Angourie Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
We begin the day with a short drive to Maclean, the “Scottish Town in Australia,” where tartan-painted power poles and riverside scenery add a touch of charm. After morning tea and time to explore, we continue to Grafton, where the streets burst into life beneath a canopy of magnificent jacaranda blossoms. The town glows with soft purple hues — a breathtaking sight that draws visitors from far and wide each spring.
A local guide shares Grafton’s history and highlights as we stroll beneath the flowering trees, enjoying time to wander and capture the beauty of this seasonal spectacle before returning to Yamba for dinner.
Overnight: Angourie Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
The morning is free to enjoy the resort or take a stroll through Yamba’s seaside streets. Late morning, we travel across the river to Iluka, where we enjoy lunch surrounded by the sounds and scents of nature. Afterwards, we explore the Iluka Nature Reserve, walking through lush coastal rainforest and taking in spectacular views from Iluka Bluff.
Our afternoon concludes with a visit to a nearby ostrich and emu farm for a fascinating tour and afternoon tea before returning to the resort for dinner.
Overnight: Angourie Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Today we journey north via Ballina, pausing for morning tea at beautiful Lennox Head. Continuing to Byron Bay, we enjoy lunch before exploring this iconic coastal town — from its relaxed streets and boutiques to the famous lighthouse with sweeping ocean views. After some free time to shop or stroll, we return to Yamba for dinner and a relaxed evening.
Overnight: Angourie Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
We farewell Yamba and begin our journey south, travelling through lush countryside to Urunga, where we enjoy morning tea on the scenic boardwalk overlooking the wetlands. In Bellingen, there’s time to browse local boutiques and galleries before lunch at the historic Old Butter Factory.
We continue to Dorrigo, where the Skywalk offers breathtaking views across the rainforest canopy. Later, we make our way to South West Rocks, a tranquil seaside haven, where we settle into our hotel and enjoy dinner together.
Overnight: Rockpool Motor Inn, South West Rocks
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we visit the historic Trial Bay Gaol, set high on the headland with sweeping coastal views, before continuing to Smoky Cape Lighthouse for morning tea. Travelling south, we stop in Nabiac for lunch and a short break before the final leg of our journey.
We return to Sydney in the late afternoon, reflecting on a wonderful week exploring coastal towns, country hospitality, and the stunning jacaranda season.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch
Testimonials
Hi Debbie, I must say that the tour was well constructed with lots of places to check out. But surprisingly there was enough time allocated to do all the features mentioned in the brochure. I didn’t feel rushed at any point. The accommodation was A1 and you put on delightful meals. I’m looking forward to my next tour with ‘On Course’ in November. I must make comment about our driver ‘Peter’. Very personable and easy going, nothing seemed to faze him. He is a true professional driver / tour director. I look forward to having him on future tours. Yes, I will be a repeat customer! Also the pickup / drop off at North Sydney station works.
Kindest Regards, Mark
Dear Debbie Just like to thank you again for the most enjoyable couple of days in the Southern Highlands earlier this month. Venues and meals were great. It was a very comfortable drive with John. He is very friendly and sociable, providing us with interesting information of the local areas along the way. We look forward to travelling with you again in the future.
