Fast facts
- Peaceful and scenic town with superb fishing and beaches
- Coastal village on the north side of the Clarence River mouth
- 694 km north of Sydney, population 1,900
Why go there
For anyone whose idea of a perfect holiday town is small, sensational and relaxed in the extreme, Iluka is tailor-made.
The Iluka Nature Reserve contains the largest remnant of littoral rainforest – where trees obtain water via filtration through coastal sand – in NSW, and supports a rich vegetation and abundant bird and animal life.
Iluka has a wide range of holiday accommodation, with excellent camping and caravan facilities.
History
The Yaygir or Bundjalung Aboriginal people occupied the area before European settlement.
Iluka grew modestly from about the 1860s. Commercial activity was mostly confined to Yamba, on the other side of the river mouth, and Iluka has remained a fishing port and small, stress-free holiday destination.
Things to do
- Stroll the 2.5-km walking track through the Iluka Nature Reserve, a fascinating experience for conservationists and birdwatchers.
- Explore Bundjalung National Park, named after the Aboriginal people who were the original inhabitants of the area.
- Take a day or an evening barbecue cruise on the Clarence River.
Don’t miss
- A tour of the nearby Woombah Coffee Plantation.
- A picnic at Shark Bay.
- A night under the stars at Woody Head National Park camping area.
- Iluka Markets, first Sunday of each month.
- 18 holes on the Iluka Golf Course, but watch out for the wallabies.
