A 2km return walk, the famous accessible Urunga Boardwalk provides spectacular views from the tidal lagoon to the ocean, and mountain views on the return. As you pass the saltwater swimming pool of the Lido, the sand flats at low tide reveal thousands of soldier crabs, and you may even spot rays, mangroves, pelicans, or water dragons. The boardwalk leads to Urunga’s long white sand beach stretching all the way past Hungry Head to Wenonah Headland — perfect for sunrise or sunset.
The Lido is a great family spot for a swim. Kids love the pontoon, and the foreshore includes accessible ramps, Mobi-Mats, a playground, BBQs, and bathroom facilities.
Nearby, the Urunga Wetlands on Hillside Drive offer a tranquil walk over reclaimed bushland. Once an old industrial site, the area is now home to native species and includes an accessible boardwalk and gravel walking track.
Urunga’s long stretch of beaches is perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking in the sun. Surf breaks at Hungry Head and North Beach in Mylestom are patrolled during holiday periods and ideal for families. Wenonah Headland is a more secluded option for experienced surfers.
If you’re up for more wave chasing, head north to Sawtell or south to Valla Beach, Nambucca, and Scotts Head. New to surfing? Book a lesson with Waves to Wilderness in Coffs Harbour.
The Kalang and Bellinger Rivers are calm, scenic, and perfect for paddling. Kayak and paddleboard hire is available locally, and the rivers are a great way to spot wildlife while getting active outdoors.
Guided tours like Bellingen Canoe Adventures operate day and evening trips from nearby Fernmount. Prefer sailing? Join a course or pleasure cruise with Sailurunga, departing from Atherton Drive.
Bring your gear or hire locally — Urunga is a favourite for river and ocean fishing. You’ll find bream, flathead, mulloway, and more. Cast off from the break-wall, Kalang bridge, or the boat ramps near Anchors Wharf Café.
Urunga is located on the lands of the Gumbaynggirr people. Around town, you’ll find beautiful signage sharing stories and language, especially near the boardwalk and Flagstaff Hill. Local Elder Lisa Kelly’s work is featured in public art installations that promote understanding and connection to Country.
You can also visit the Mylestom Reserve, Wenonah Headland, and the Urunga and Bellingen Historical Museums for more insights into local Aboriginal history.
Many sites around Urunga hold cultural significance. From Urunga Headland to the C.ex Golf Club hill, these areas were traditional campgrounds before settlement. Aboriginal people were later relocated to Urunga Island and then Yellow Rock.
Wenonah Headland and Nunguu Mirral (Picket Hill) are sacred spaces, as is the looming mountain profile of Old Man Dreaming — a story of protection and transformation.
Support Gumbaynggirr-led experiences like:
Looking to get your heart racing? Try:
Skydive Coffs Harbour
Treetop Adventures at Sealy Lookout
Rock climbing in Glenreigh, Nymboida Gorge, or Sawtell
Valery Trails Horse Riding near Bellingen
Scenic rides, drives, and hikes await:
Waterfall Way: A beautiful route through rainforest and valleys
4WD and biking trails in Bongil Bongil National Park and beyond
Coffs Trike Tours or scenic helicopter flights for next-level views
Between May and November, spot humpback whales breaching from Hungry Head or Muttonbird Island. Jetty Dive in Coffs offers whale watching and swim-with-the-whale experiences.
Want to explore underwater? Snorkel or dive the Solitary Islands Marine Park — one of Australia’s most diverse marine ecosystems.
Families love the Big Banana Fun Park in Coffs — packed with slides, rides, laser tag, and mini golf. Don’t miss the Butterfly House in Bonville or Dolphin Marine Conservation Park for interactive animal experiences.
Time your visit with:
Urunga Lights Festival (Dec)
Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival (June)
Camp Creative (Jan)
Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival (Oct)
Catch live music at Ocean View Hotel (Urunga) or 5 Church Street and The Brewery in Bellingen.
Urunga Riverside Markets: 2nd Sunday monthly on the foreshore
Bellingen Community Markets: 3rd Saturday monthly
Dorrigo Markets: 1st Saturday monthly
Explore:
The Art Space Urunga: Local art exhibitions
Tree-O Gallery in Raleigh
Nexus Community Gallery in Bellingen
Dorrigo Rainforest Centre exhibitions
Urunga may be small, but its coffee scene is mighty:
Liberty Providores: Strong brews and fresh rolls
Mai Thai: Casual bites and warm hospitality
Boardwalk Café: Burgers and takeaway before a beach day
In Bellingen, try Hyde Café, Hearthfire, or Black Bear Café for top-tier morning fuel.
Favourites include:
Ocean View Hotel: Live music, pub classics, and kid-friendly beer garden
Anchors Wharf: Romantic riverside dining
Sundance Taverna: Burgers, pasta, and woodfired pizza
C.ex Urunga Golf Club: Dining with a view at The Shank Inn
Raleigh Winery: Free tastings, vineyard views, and cheese platters
Bellingen Brewing Co.: Craft beers, woodfired pizza, and live music
Relax with a massage or facial at:
The Beauty Spot (Urunga)
Alchemy & Skin Bliss (Bellingen)
Yoga is offered weekly in Urunga and Bellingen — a perfect way to unwind.
Whether you’re stretched out on North Beach, lazing by the river with a book, or casting a line at dusk, Urunga invites you to slow down.
For a relaxing round of golf, visit Urunga C.ex Golf Course or travel to Bonville or Bellingen for a hit.
Make the most of your stay at Heart of Urunga — your perfect base for exploring it all.
