Yamba & The Jacarandas

Days: 8 Days

Activity: 3. Active Moderate

Transport: Drive

$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.


Tour Departure Location = Sydney

Travelling from somewhere else? Return flight quotes are available on request. Please contact our team to join the tour.

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

Activity Levels

  • 1. Easy
  • 2. Moderate
  • 3. Active Moderate
  • 4. Adventurous

Testimonials

Blessed with marvelous weather, all enjoyed the tour tremendously. I’d like to thank Sean, he was well liked by all, drove carefully and chatted happily. He had interesting facts to share. Love to have him as our driver again in the future.

Regards, Alison

Dear Kerry and staff Thank you for organising the Temora airshow and Wagga tour for our club. We all enjoyed the four days away. The tour length was just right for us ‘oldies’. The Mercure Wagga was very comfortable and centrally located, and there was plenty of free time to explore the galleries, gardens Riverina Museum, and shops on offer in Wagga. The Tamora airshow was an opportunity to view old planes and to see an aviation display for novices to aviation displays. We learnt so much about the RAAF presence in Wagga and Temora during WWII. A highlight of the Junee Rail Museum was the dedicated locals who told us all about trains and privatisation of New South Wales rails. A special bouquet of thanks to Paul , our wonderful coach driver and Marie, our friendly tour guide. Nothing was a problem for them. Both Marie and Paul worked as a great team and put us all at ease. We greatly appreciated all their work, effort, fun and friendship to make our trip memorable. Thanks Guys! It was great to be travelling with Oncourse again. Our club is looking forward to seeing what tourism plans you have in store for 2024. Again, many thanks for your help. Best wishes to all the On Course team.

Regards, Elizabeth