Things to do around Ulmarra, NSW

Things to do around Ulmarra, NSW: Explore Outdoor Adventures, Tours, Day Trips and Good Eats

If you’re wondering about things to do around Ulmarra, NSW, you’re in the right place. This little village along the Clarence River has plenty of surprises in store. The National Trust even classifies Ulmarra Village as one of the best examples of a 19th-century river port in Australia, and today, it’s home to quirky stores, antique shops, contemporary gallery, and plenty of character.

When you arrive by road, you’ll spot the Ulmarra Hotel, an iconic, Federation-era pub that’s truly a sight to behold. And if you’re arriving by boat, don’t miss the chance to pull up to its fantastic beer garden — it’s been voted one of the top 5 in NSW, with delicious gourmet food and a front-row seat to the river.

With its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and a great mix of nature and culture, Ulmarra is the kind of place you’ll want to stick around and explore. There’s always something fun to discover, whether you’re into the arts scene, hunting for antiques, or heading out to snorkel, swim, whale watch, or explore the stunning Clarence River and rainforests — Ulmarra has a lot to offer.

Getting To Ulmarra: Drive Time and Flights

Ulmarra is halfway between Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay. It takes 6.5hr drive from Sydney and 3.5hr from Brisbane. Rex Regional Express offers direct flights from Sydney Airport (SYD) to Clarence Valley Regional Airport (GFN)in Grafton. This is the most common airline service to the area. REX operates regular flights to Grafton, which is just a short drive (about 15 minutes) from Ulmarra.

Wellness & Pampering

• Cathy Jeffries Massage Clinic: offers personalized massage therapy to help you relax and unwind. 86 Coldstream Road, Ulmarra
• Alexsandrina Hovey Acupuncturist: specialises in acupuncture treatments designed to promote overall wellness and relieve stress. 10 The Peninsula, Yamba
• Ngara Day Spa: a luxurious space for you to unwind, to rest, to relax, offering a variety of treatments including aromatherapy, remedial massage, and spa packages designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. Ngara is a sophisticated space to find deep relaxation and the joy of feeling well. 47 Wooli Street, Yamba
• Holistic Wellness and Healing: offers a variety of Naturopathic therapies. 1/31 Prince Street, Grafton
• Clarence Valley Aboriginal Healing Centre: Specialising in massage therapy, reiki, and other energy-based treatments, this centre provides a peaceful environment to relax and heal. 94 Fitzroy Street, Grafton

Explore & Discover Around Ulmarra, NSW

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Day Trips

• Swim, snorkel, surf at Iluka Nature Reserve
• Bird watch
• Hike the rainforests, kayak or canoe the Clarence River
• Check out the local, contemporary and fine art at Coldstream Gallery
• Bushwalk Wilsons Headland
• Picnic at Gibraltar Range National Parks
• Cool off at Coombadjha Creek
• Enjoy a morning walk around Yamba Lighthouse
• Wander the gardens at Federation Park Sensory Gardens
• Take a scenic cruise on the Yamba River
• Enjoy a peaceful or an exhilarating fishing experience from the riverbanks.
• For a relaxed day trip, explore the Pacific Highway for incredible coastal views, quaint towns, and nearby beaches.
• Day trip to Yamba: a short drive from Ulmarra, Yamba offers beautiful beaches, great food, and plenty of outdoor activities for a full day of adventure.

Indoor Adventures and Unique Experiences

• Buy an original painting or local hand made gift at PJ Art Gallery – 12 Coldstream Street
• Browse the hand crafted timbers At The Wood Shop
• Browse the Ulmarra Collective – 7 Coldstream St
• Go antique shopping at Contrary’s On Clarence – 21 Pacific Highway, Ulmarra
• Explore the Clarence River Historical Society Museum: exhibits focusing on the early European settlement, local industries, and the heritage of the Clarence River area.
• Stop by the Maclean Heritage Centre: fascinating displays about the area’s Scottish heritage and the iconic Highlander culture.
• Check out the ArtSpace Grafton: offers rotating exhibitions and is a hub for modern art and creativity in the Clarence Valley.

Good Eats Around Ulmarra, NSW

• Clarence Café: offering a menu filled with fresh, local produce. 5 Coldstream St, Ulmarra
• The Little Local Cafe: A fantastic little café that serves up delicious coffee, homemade cakes, and light meals. 1/5 Coldstream St, Ulmarra
• Yamba Shores Tavern: waterfront tavern serving hearty meals, including fresh seafood and steaks. The location offers beautiful views of the Clarence River.5 Queen St, Yamba
• The Barn at Yamba: relaxed cafe offering delicious meals and snacks, including fresh sandwiches, salads, and great coffee. 1/15 Coldstream St, Yamba
• Gather Yamba: Gather celebrates the flavours of the Clarence Valley and beyond, using fresh and local produce wherever we can. It is a place to slow down and enjoy quality coffee and food.

Foodies Around Ulmarra, NSW: Gourmet Flavours, Markets and Providores

• Clarence Café
• Yamba Farmers Market: Held every Thursday, this local market offers fresh produce, gourmet products, and artisan treats. Yamba Civic Centre.
• Grafton Farmers Market: on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month with everything from fresh veggies to gourmet snacks. Grafton Showground, Grafton.
• Maclean Community Market: on the 2nd Saturday of every month. Youll find locally made food products and treats and sample something new. Maclean Showground, Maclean.
• Ulmarra Food Co: fresh, seasonal produce straight from the region, and a range of wholesome prepared meals. 7 Coldstream St, Ulmarra
• The Babbington Restaurant
  Head to Grafton for an exquisite dining experience with a range of gourmet meals, including locally sourced produce and wines. 93 Fitzroy St Grafton.
• The Oyster Shed: enjoy oysters straight from the farm while taking in the views of the river.94 Spencer St, Yamba
• The Clarence Kitchen Collective: is a community hub offering a whole foods cafe, bulk food store and workshop space. 50 Skinner Street, South Grafton, NSW. it focuses on gourmet meals, local produce, and offers a unique dining experience that highlights the region’s best ingredients.

Retail Escapes

• Fibre Delights Handmade: Beautifully unique gifts, clothing, jewellery and homewares locally handmade. 11 Coldstream Street
• PJ Art Gallery with Coffee shop – 2 Coldstream St
• Coldstream Gallery and shop
• Ulmarra Collective: Home decor, art, stylish furniture, gift ideas and more. 7 Coldstream St, Ulmarra, NSW Open Saturday and Sunday 10am-2pm. 7 Coldstream St, Ulmarra
• Big River Trading Co-Op: Artisans from the Clarence Valley bringing unique skills together to form a co-op that is diverse and exciting. Felting, textiles,leatherwork,art,macrame,up cycling and a range of artistic homeware giftware and more! 6 Coldstream St, Ulmarra
• Contrary’s On Clarence Antiques: And collectables, furniture and giftware, jewellery, vintage everything – 21 Pacific Hwy, Central Mangrove
• Old Codger’s Antiques: Thousands of antiques and collectibles and items on sale- 21 Pacific Hwy, Ulmarra NSW
• Ulmarra Bookstore: A wonderful shop full of second hand books at 4 Coldstream Street Ulmarra, NSW
• The Mend and Made Do Crew: Second Hand store.  1/46 Through St, South Grafton NSW

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