Urunga Travel Guide

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Urunga, from natural attractions and outdoor adventures to culturally important museums and historical places. Discover unforgettable experiences, mouth-watering cuisine, and where to stay in Urunga.


Urunga, a charming town nestled in the heart of Mid-North Coast, New South Wales, is a hidden gem that is bound to captivate your senses. The town is located 25 kilometers south of Coffs Harbour and 550 kilometers north of Sydney, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday.

From natural attractions and outdoor adventures to culturally important museums and historical places, Urunga offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful destination. In this ultimate Urunga travel guide, we will uncover the best places to visit, must-try dishes, where to stay, and much more.

Introduction to Urunga

Urunga is a small coastal town, rich in history and natural beauty. The town was established in the late 1800s and was once a thriving timber and dairy town. Today, Urunga has a population of approximately 3,500 people and is popular among tourists for its pristine beaches, scenic views, and relaxed lifestyle.

List of Places to Visit in Urunga

Urunga offers several attractions for tourists of all interests. Here are some of the must-visit places in Urunga:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Urunga Boardwalk: This picturesque boardwalk runs along the Kalang River and is a popular spot for fishing and bird watching.
  • South Urunga Cemetery: Explore the graves of early settlers, sailors, and World War II soldiers in this historic cemetery.
  • Dorrigo Steam Railway and Museum: Take a ride on a steam train and learn about the fascinating history of the area’s railway industry.

Natural Attractions of Urunga: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bellingen River National Park: This park offers stunning natural beauty, featuring waterfalls, rainforests, and wildlife.
  • Urunga Beach: This pristine beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
  • Raleigh International Raceway: Enjoy a thrilling experience with go-karts, supermoto racing, and mini bikes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Urunga

If you love hiking and biking, Urunga has several trails that offer breathtaking views. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Urunga:

  • Urunga Boardwalk: This 2km boardwalk offers stunning views of the Kalang River and is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
  • Bellingen River National Park: This park offers numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, making it perfect for hikers of all fitness levels.

Best Things to Do in Urunga: Activities and Tours

Urunga is full of exciting activities and tours that are perfect for all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Urunga:

  • Fishing: The Kalang River and Bongil Bongil National Park offer excellent fishing opportunities.
  • Surfing: Urunga Beach is a world-renowned surfing destination, offering the perfect waves for surfers of all levels.
  • Whale Watching: Take a boat tour and witness the natural beauty of whale sightings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Urunga

If you are planning to visit Urunga for a week, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Urunga and explore the Urunga boardwalk. Day 2: Visit the Bellingen River National Park and enjoy a hike. Day 3: Go surfing at Urunga Beach and enjoy a beach picnic. Day 4: Take a steam train ride and visit the Dorrigo Steam Railway and Museum. Day 5: Enjoy a day of fishing on the Kalang River. Day 6: Take a boat tour and watch whales in their natural habitat. Day 7: Departure from Urunga.

Food and Drink Scene of Urunga

Urunga’s food and drink scene is not to be missed. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Platter: Enjoy a platter of fresh seafood, including prawns, oysters, and fish, caught right off the coast of Urunga.
  • Mango Smoothie Bowl: A perfect breakfast option made with fresh tropical fruits.

Local Beverages

  • Bellinger River Snapping Turtle: This delicious beer is brewed locally using the purest rainwater.

Where to Stay in Urunga: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Urunga offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Urunga:

  • Urunga Waters Tourist Park: This park is located on the banks of the Kalang River and offers chalets, cabins, and campsites.
  • The Bower House: This guesthouse features five suites and is situated in a beautiful garden setting.

What to Buy in Urunga: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Urunga offers several unique souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing back home. Here are some of the best things to buy in Urunga:

  • Aboriginal Paintings and Artifacts: Urunga has several art galleries that feature beautiful and authentic Aboriginal paintings and artifacts.
  • Local Honey: The honey from the nearby Bellingen Valley is pure and delicious.

Local Culture and Customs of Urunga

Urunga is a town with a rich culture and history. The town is home to the Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people, one of the oldest living cultures in the world. Visitors to Urunga are encouraged to show respect towards the local culture and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Urunga

Urunga can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from September to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the town is less crowded with tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Urunga

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Urunga:

Do:

  • Explore the Urunga Boardwalk.
  • Try the local seafood and honey.
  • Respect local culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or in the national parks.
  • Disrespect local culture and traditions.
  • Ignore safety warnings on the beaches.

Safety and Health

Urunga is a safe town to visit, but visitors should take some precautions to ensure their safety and health. Here are some tips:

Safety in Urunga

  • Always swim between the flags on the beaches and follow the safety guidelines.
  • Be aware of the dangers of Australian wildlife, such as snakes and spiders.
  • Lock valuables in a safe place and never leave them unattended.

Health in Urunga

  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the warmer months.
  • Be aware of the risk of bushfires during the dry season.

Getting to Urunga: Transportation Options and Logistics

Urunga is easily accessible from major cities in Australia. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Urunga

  • Coffs Harbour Airport is the closest airport, located 25 kilometers north of Urunga.

Bus Stations Near Urunga

  • Greyhound offers a daily bus route to Urunga from major cities in New South Wales and Queensland.

Other Options

  • Renting a car is an easy and convenient option for visitors to explore the area.

How to Get Around in Urunga

Urunga is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, for visitors who want to explore further, renting a bike or a car is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Urunga: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Urunga is surrounded by several other stunning destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the nearby destinations:

  • Coffs Harbour: Visit the Big Banana and enjoy an adrenaline-pumping adventure at the TreeTops Adventure Park.
  • Bellingen: This charming town is home to beautiful gardens, art galleries, and coffee shops.
  • Dorrigo National Park: Explore the stunning waterfalls and rainforests in this beautiful park.

Conclusion

Urunga is a hidden gem that offers natural beauty, cultural attractions, and exciting activities. Regardless of your interests, Urunga has something for everyone. With this ultimate Urunga travel guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to this beautiful destination.

Where the Kalang and Bellinger Rivers meet Where the Kalang and Bellinger Rivers meet