Northern Rivers

Travel Guide

Yamba which includes a river or creek
Cape Byron Lighthouse showing views as well as a small group of people
Northern Rivers
Northern Rivers
Wategos Beach which includes general coastal views, surfing and a beach

Northern Rivers Travel Guide Video

Discover the hinterland of northern New South Wales, where you can enter ancient rainforests or hunt for antiques in picturesque countryside villages.

Northern Rivers is a broad region of lush pastoral land fringed by wild rainforests, deep river gorges and the foothills of the Great Dividing Range. Stretching between the Clarence River and Tweed HeadsOpens in a new window in the hinterland behind the iridescent North Coast, Northern Rivers is characterized by country towns, farm-fresh produce, green meadows and mountain views. Explore country markets, check out provincial art galleries, embark on bushwalking trails that thread through dense rainforest or indulge in some of the region’s renowned natural therapies.

To the south of the region is the mighty Clarence River, one of Australia’s largest waterways. Experience the river’s lush estuary on a boating or fishing trip departing from YambaOpens in a new window or visit the farming villages that sit along its banks. One of the largest hubs in the Northern Rivers region is the city of LismoreOpens in a new window, where you’ll find a lively arts scene, fresh organic produce and vintage markets. Visit nearby Nimbin to find a laid-back village within a verdant green valley punctuated by spires of volcanic rock. Relax with rejuvenating remedial therapies in this alternative town. World Heritage rainforests and beautiful national parks are a short distance away.

See Protestors Falls in the Nightcap National Park or check out the undulating greenery of the Border Ranges. Wollumbin National Park, near MurwillumbahOpens in a new window, is where you’ll find the distinctive mountain peak of Wollumbin, or Mount Warning. This sacred Bundjalung Aboriginal site is the first place that sees the morning sun on the Australian mainland. Respect the traditional custodians of the mountain by enjoying the scenery from its leafy foothills.

Toward the north, you’ll find the green grazing pastures of the Tweed River. At the mouth of the river lies the northern border of New South Wales and the waterfront resorts of the Tweed area.

Reach the Northern Rivers via one of the major airports located throughout the region. Lismore is a 3-hour drive from BrisbaneOpens in a new window and a 2-hour drive from the Gold CoastOpens in a new window. The region is best explored by car however, there are some charter tour operators and intercity buses. Stay in cosy country hotels and rainforest retreats.

Where to stay in Northern Rivers

Kingscliff featuring a park

Kingscliff

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Kingscliff. A stop by Kingscliff Beach or Casuarina Beach might round out your trip.

Kingscliff
Lennox Head which includes a coastal town

Lennox Head

Travellers come to Lennox Head for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Lennox Head Beach and Seven Mile Beach while you're in town.

Lennox Head
Cabarita Beach featuring a sandy beach

Cabarita Beach

Beaches, cafes and shopping are just a few things travellers enjoy about Cabarita Beach. Check out Cabarita Beach or Casuarina Beach while you're exploring the area.

Cabarita Beach
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Kirra

Kirra is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Border Park Raceway and Gold Coast Skydive while you're in town.

Kirra
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Casuarina

Beaches, restaurants and spas are some highlights of Casuarina. Make a stop by Casuarina Beach or South Kingscliff Beach while you're exploring.

Casuarina
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Pottsville

Pottsville is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Pottsville Beach and Cudgen Nature Reserve.

Pottsville
Mantra Twin Towns
Mantra Twin Towns
4 out of 5
Corner Griffith & Wharf Street, Tweed Heads, NSW
The price is €108 per night from 28 Jul to 29 Jul
€108
28 Jul - 29 Jul
includes taxes & fees
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Discovery Parks - Byron Bay
Discovery Parks - Byron Bay
3.5 out of 5
399 Ewingsdale Road, Byron Bay, NSW
The price is €86 per night from 10 Jul to 11 Jul
€86
10 Jul - 11 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star family-friendly holiday park in Byron Bay. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and free water park access. Our guests praise the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
"Awesome all round. Ticks all the boxes"

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Discovery Parks - Byron Bay
Mantra on Salt Beach
Mantra on Salt Beach
4.5 out of 5
Gunnamatta Avenue, Kingscliff, NSW
The price is €84 per night from 3 Aug to 4 Aug
€84
3 Aug - 4 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury resort in Tweed Heads. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews)
"We loved this hotel it was clean, spacious,friendly with lots of amenities. Would definitely stay again."

Reviewed on 5 Jul 2025

Mantra on Salt Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites
Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites
4 out of 5
99 Griffith Street, Coolangatta, QLD
Stay at this 4-star luxury aparthotel in Gold Coast. Enjoy free parking, a beach locale, and a sauna. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,165 reviews)
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Reviewed on 7 Jul 2025

Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites
Iconic Kirra Beach Resort
Iconic Kirra Beach Resort
4 out of 5
76 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta, QLD
Stay at this 4-star beach aparthotel in Gold Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and a garden. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (488 reviews)
Perfect location in beautiful Kirra.
"Had a low level sea view apartment, great view, very clean, lovely staff and excellent location. A lot of different dinner options literally 30 second walk, 7/11 one minute walk. Beach access directly across road. Was there in winter, so wish the pool was heated, but nevermind. I'll definitely be ..."

Reviewed on 6 Jul 2025

Iconic Kirra Beach Resort
X Kirra Apartments
X Kirra Apartments
4.5 out of 5
72 Musgrave St, Coolangatta, QLD
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Gold Coast. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Kirra Beach and Coolangatta Beach ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (171 reviews)
"Modern, clean, great location, amazing views, overall spectacular!"

Reviewed on 6 Jul 2025

X Kirra Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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