Things to Do in Urunga

Discover Urunga: Your ultimate things to do guide

Urunga is a charming coastal town on the Coffs Coast of New South Wales, and offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, with a laidback seaside allure. This tucked-away gem attracts families seeking a relaxed holiday to adventurers eager to explore its stunning beaches and lush landscapes. With its vibrant local culture and scenic surroundings, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Urunga.

Outdoor activities

Fishing and boating

Make no mistake - Urunga is a fishing paradise with a range of prime spots you can be sure will deliver the goods. The Urunga Boardwalk and Estuary offer easy access to bream, flathead, and whiting, ideal for families. While the Kalang River, accessible by boat, is perfect for those seeking quiet, scenic fishing, with mangrove jack and whiting up for grabs. For surf fishing, Hungry Head Beach and North Beach at Mylestom are top choices, especially for tailor and Australian salmon.

Boating enthusiasts can launch from the ramp near the Urunga Golf Course to gain easy access to the Kalang and Bellinger Rivers, both excellent for exploring diverse fishing areas and enjoying the region’s natural beauty.

Surfing and swimming

Surfing is always a popular activity in Urunga, with Hungry Head Beach only 5 km south being the go-to spot for catching waves. This beach offers consistent surf breaks that cater to both beginners and experienced surfers, or there’s North Beach, Mylestom, just a short 20- minute drive north. For those who enjoy swimming, check out the Lido - a natural swimming pool formed by the meeting of the Bellinger and Kalang Rivers. Or submerge in the calm, clear waters of Urunga Lagoon, easily accessed from the Reflections Holiday Park waterfront and ideal for a coo refreshing dip. Perfect!

Hiking and nature walks

This is the ideal place to get out and about, as Urunga is surrounded by lush landscapes that are perfect for hiking and nature walks. The Urunga Boardwalk is one of the best boardwalks on the east coast, with spectacular views of the river, ocean, and wetlands and a popular trail for birding and walking. Alternatively, the Urunga Wetlands Boardwalk takes you on a nature trail, offering a peaceful retreat from life’s hustle and bustle.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Urunga are all about laid-back vibes and gentle adventures. Just a short, easy stroll from the park, the calm waters of the estuary make it a perfect spot to launch your board or kayak and drift along at your own pace. It’s an ideal setting for families, with sheltered spots that are safe for kids to splash, paddle, and explore.

Waterfall Wandering

No trip to the Coffs Coast is complete without a drive down Waterfall Way, through lush landscapes and stunning views. Heading up the Great Diving Range at Doriggo Mountain brings your out to a variety of waterfall walks.

Local attractions

Urunga Boardwalk

A leisurely stroll along The Urunga Boardwalk is a fantastic way to explore the mangroves and tidal flats. This stunning boardwalk, which extends over 1 kilometre, also provides panoramic views of the Bellinger and Kalang Rivers, which both merge into the ocean. Along the way, you'll find informative displays about the local environment, making it both an educational and visually stunning experience. It’s worth noting that the entire length of the boardwalk is wheelchair accessible with numerous rest areas and seating.

Urunga Art Space

Tucked into the heart of Urunga, The Art Space is a welcoming community gallery that celebrates the creativity of local artists. Run as a not-for-profit by passionate volunteers, it hosts a rotating program of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing everything from painting and photography to ceramics and sculpture.

The Honey Place

The Honey Place, renowned for being the “sweetest spot on the North Coast of NSW,” is not only a unique retail experience but offers a wide variety of locally produced honey products. Visitors can learn about the honey-making process, sample different flavours, and purchase some to take home. A must-visit for foodies, anyone with a sweet tooth and love of bees!

Dining and Nightlife

Cafés

For casual meals and great coffee, the dog-friendly Boardwalk Café is highly recommended for its excellent coffee, fish and chips and friendly service - perfect for grabbing a quick bite after exploring the boardwalk.

Urunga Restaurants

Urunga’s charming selection of restaurants and cafes cater to all tastes. Starting with local favourite, The Ocean View Hotel offers hearty wholesome meals, live music every Sunday night and a beer garden for kids to run around. Other notable Urunga restaurants are Liberty Providores Urunga and Anchors Wharf for excellent seafood and beautiful views.

If wine-tasting is your thing, Raleigh Winery provides a picturesque setting to enjoy wine tastings on a deck overlooking the Bellinger River.It's a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Seasonal activities

Summer activities

There’s nothing better than long-summer days and there’s no doubt you’ll be kept entertained in Urunga, with a range of events and activities to enjoy. The warm weather is perfect for spending time on the beach. Whether surfing, fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun, Urunga has you covered. The town is close to nearby Bellingen which hosts several summer festivals and markets, offering visitors a taste of local culture and cuisine. Plus, no holiday trip would be complete without a trip to Coffs Harbours’ Big Banana Fun Park or Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary for super fun days out!

Winter activities

Winter in Urunga is a more tranquil time, ideal for exploring the town’s natural attractions without the crowds. The cooler weather is perfect for hiking and nature walks, jumping on a tour, visiting the local museum or simply pitching up at any number of the local cafes providing cosy spots to warm up with a hot drink. The Urunga Boardwalk and Wetlands are particularly beautiful in the early morning light, while a visit to the nearby Coffs Harbour Butterfly House is positively serene. Between June and November, you’re more than likely to catch a glimpse of humpback whales migrating along the coast.