Northern Rivers

Time for a little 'wow'

It’s a green and pleasant land here, but there’s so much more to the Northern Rivers than its tantalisingly lush landscapes. There’s that big swathe of coastline, for starters, where you’ll be drawn in by world-famous beachfront towns like Byron Bay and Ballina. There’s an equally big collection of tastemakers creating brilliant food, drink and produce, with both sand and soil underfoot. Isn’t it time for a little more 'wow'?

Byron Bay, Ballina & Tweed

With rich hinterland and spectacular coast, the Byron Bay region is famous for beaches and natural beauty, such as the magnificent Minyon Falls. Taste delicious local produce at The Farm, a wonderful paddock to plate experience. Stroll along the stunning coastal walk from Ballina to Lennox Head, where the rainforest meets the sea, and admire the surfers riding the world-famous left-hand break at The Point.

Women walking past The Farm in Byron Bay, North Coast

The Farm Byron Bay

In the Tweed Valley, cruise or kayak among the beautiful estuaries, gorgeous beaches and World Heritage wilderness. Kids will love Tropical Fruit World. Stop at coastal Kingscliff or relax on Cabarita Beach, renowned for its surf events and beachside hotel. Visit Wollumbin-Mount Warning in idyllic Wollumbin National Park, where the remnants of an ancient volcano rise dramatically from the forest.

Taste exotic fruits at Tropical Fruit World in Duranbah, Tweed Area - Credit: Trevor Worden

Lismore & the Richmond Valley

On the banks of Wilsons River, Lismore is home to a thriving arts community. Visit the Lismore Regional Gallery or find laneway street art through The Back Alley Gallery. There’s also an emerging culinary scene – taste it at Bircher Bar, The Dirty Wilson or Ghetto Babe Street Eats. For cocktails and live music, visit the Dusty Attic.

Grafton Jacaranda Festival

Stop in at beautiful Casino and treat your tastebuds to mouth-watering Casino beef. Kyogle, a rainforest gateway, is on the banks of the beautiful Richmond River. Try surfing, kayaking and fishing on the uncrowded beaches and waterways of Evans Head. Discover breathtaking rainforest wilderness in World Heritage-listed Border Ranges National Park.

Nimbin Craft Gallery. Image Credit; Sarah Reid

Nimbin Craft Gallery - Credit: Sarah Reid

Visit the beautiful green valley that is home to Nimbin, where you can see the works of local artists, from paintings and fashion to ceramics and jewellery, at the Nimbin Artists Gallery. Visit the Candle Factory or taste fresh seasonal produce at the weekly Nimbin Farmers Market.

Clarence Valley

Soak up the laid back culture of Yamba, known for its top surf breaks, beautiful beaches and plentiful prawns. See the historic town of Grafton come alive with colour during the jacaranda season in October. Then go in search of outdoor adventures in the hinterland where you can try kayaking, fishing and camping along the Clarence River.

The Hideaway, Cabarita Beach

Getting there

The Northern Rivers is easy to get to by road, rail or air. You can fly into airports in Grafton, Lismore and Byron Bay, and the North Coast train line runs from Sydney and Brisbane to Grafton, Casino and Kyogle. Or explore on a road trip – the Legendary Pacific Drive and Rainforest Way will take you through the heart of the region’s wonders.