Trail summary
Hike overview
Angourie to Brooms Head walking track, part of Yuraygir coastal walk, is a hiking route offering scenic lookouts and opportunities for beach walking, birdwatching, and seasonal whale watching.
If you've decided to hike the entire Yuraygir coastal walk north to south, the Angourie to Brooms Head walking track is the first section and begins in world famous Angourie Surfing Reserve.
This hiking track is a great place to start a northern NSW coastal day walk or multi-day hike. It takes you through a variety of coastal ecosystems €“ over Mara Creek where it flows out at Back Beach and to the shores of beautiful Lake Arragan, and past caves on the southern side of Shelley headland. Keep your eyes peeled for interpretive signs along the track, and learn about the importance of the area to the local Yaegl People.
Have your binoculars handy to catch a glimpse of migrating whales between June and October, and dolphins all year round. Also keep a sharp eye out on the land for the endangered coastal emu, of which there are now less than one hundred in the park.
Tips
- Yuraygir National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
- Park entry fees apply.
- The route is best walked north to south so the sun is on your back and not in your eyes.
- If the tide is high you may need to walk along the track that diverts for the sand midway along Back Beach (look for the tall post).
- Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching or whale watching.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 59 m
Min elevation: 2 m
Total climbing: 196 m
Total descent: -192 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Yamba, Brooms Head, Iluka, Maclean, Wooloweyah
Angourie is in the northern precinct of Yuraygir National Park. To get there, turn off Pacific Highway at Harwood and follow signs into Yamba. At the roundabout in Yamba turn right to Angourie. Car and bus parking is available at Angourie Surfing Reserve, Angourie picnic area, Mara Creek, Lake Arragan and Brooms Head.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
About the region
Located between Yamba and Coffs Harbour, Yuraygir National Park is perfect for beach camping, walking and group excursions. Avid hikers will enjoy the 65km Yuraygir coastal walk, while others might prefer whale watching, swimming and fishing.
Positioned on the NSW north coast between Yamba and Coffs Harbour, Yuraygir National Park boasts the state's longest stretch of undeveloped coastline.
With 65km of striking cliffs, rocky headlands, isolated beaches and quiet lakes set against a backdrop of forests, heaths and wetlands, this colossal park is a place to experience, not just see.
Discover rare wildlife, remote campgrounds, idyllic picnic spots, and charming villages dotted along the coast. Swim, fish or surf to your heart's content in this aquatic playground. Bring your binoculars for whale watching between May and September, or challenge yourself on the multi-day Yuraygir coastal walk; a four-day hike over 65km through striking coastal scenery.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Yuraygir National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
1 Review on “Angourie to Brooms Head Hike (18km)”
Parking in front of residents homes is a problem!!! As a resident its becoming extremely difficult with the amount of Muti day campers parking directly in front of residents homes along Pacific Street….leaving no where for residential parking . There is ample safe parking in the nearby street Barri which impacts no one…please consider this when you are parking for your camp….
Thank you for sharing this Judy. I will also update the walk description to make note of this.
Hi Judy. I had a look at either end of this one way hike and I cannot see any of the streets you mentioned at either end of the walk. Are you able to provide more info?