Iluka

Overview

More photos

Iluka has long been known for its fishing, and the serious angler never visits without a frypan in his fishing gear. Situated in the Northern Rivers of NSW, the village is positioned at the mouth of the mighty Clarence River.

Until recently, the town was mainly a retirement area with not a great deal happening… but things are changing! The combination of the wide river, Yamba is on the other side, and the quiet beaches have made it a hot spot for those looking to escape the rat race.

The local Sedgers Reef Hotel, which looks out across the river, does a great fish n chip lunch and dinner in the outdoor seating offers a view to die for – particularly at sunset. At the other end of town there is a new marina and block of “posh units” going in to add to the momentum.

A couple of km’s back toward the Pacific Highway is Shark Bay which is accessible by 4WD (yep, you are actually allowed to drive on it!) Shark Bay stretches for 12km up to Black Rock camping ground.

If you have the wheels it is a great drive through Bundjalung National Park and down the beach to Iluka. Exit the Pacific Highway just south of Woodburn to access the Bundjalung Park and after a 20km drive through beautiful forest you’ll reach the beach.

Less experienced 4WD'ers should remember to select low range at both entry and exit points on the beach as the sand is deep and in high range you'll get stuck (I know, I've done it myself!) but once on the beach, high range is fine.

Further Information

People also come to this beautiful coastal town to absorb the sights and experiences provided by one of Australia's most accessible and rarest rainforest remnants. The World Heritage listed Iluka Nature Reserve contains the largest remnant of littoral rainforest in NSW.

Stop press! Iluka has a great cafe/restaurant called Makuti which is on the river behind the boat shed. The totaltravel mole reports that he drank coffee there that was better than any he had been served outside of Italy! The best coffee in Australia in Iluka??? Sounds unlikely but is apparently true!

Interactive Map & Directions

Address: Iluka Road, Iluka, NSW, 2466, Australia

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