ANGOURIE HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Follow the Coastal Emu: A 5‑Day Pack‑Free Hike from Angourie through Yuraygir
A 5‑day, 4‑night guided coastal trek from Angourie into Yuraygir National Park — this guide outlines the route, river crossings and the migration windows for humpback whales.
Follow the Coastal Emu: A 5‑Day Pack‑Free Hike from Angourie through Yuraygir.
Set out from the surfing village of Angourie and walk five days along the unspoiled beaches and coastal tracks of Yuraygir National Park on the traditional lands of the Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr people. The route features long, empty beaches, three river crossings by boat and seasonal humpback whale sightings that punctuate an otherwise solitary coastal wilderness.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Humpback whales — northbound migration (May–June)
During the northbound migration season the coast is one of the best places on the Clarence coast to see humpback whales passing en route to northern waters.
Humpback whales — southbound migration (September–October)
The same corridor becomes busy again on the southbound passage in September and October, offering repeat opportunities for shore‑based whale watching.
Three river crossings by boat
This coastal hike includes three river crossings that are completed by boat, a distinctive element that punctuates the shoreline walking each day.
What the day feels like
What the five days feel like
Each day is a focused stretch of coastline: long beach walking and coastal track between campgrounds, punctuated by boat crossings of the major rivers and nights under canvas at national park campgrounds. The itinerary moves steadily south from Angourie, with compact hike distances and one shorter final day to Red Rock for departure.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip fits — and the booking context to know up front.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Walking boots or shoes; comfortable synthetic hiking clothes; waterproof rain jacket; warm jacket; a 25–35 litre day pack; water bottles to carry a minimum of 3 litres; sun hat, sunglasses and personal toiletries.
Consider a hiking towel, swimmers, camera and battery pack, walking poles, camp sandals/shoes, camp pillow and a book.
Carry at least 3 litres of water in your day pack and plan clothing for wet and cool conditions; synthetic layers are recommended.
Some items noted with availability (for example certain clothing or equipment) are referenced in the operator booking information; refer to the full gear list in booking materials.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Yuraygir Coastal Walk — Pack Free itinerary?
The trip is 5 days and 4 nights.
Where are pickups and drop‑offs arranged?
Pick up and drop off are from Yamba.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are capped at a maximum of 10 guests.
Is there a discount for booking a full group?
Group bookings of 10 guests receive a 10% discount.
When is the best time to see humpback whales on this route?
Humpback whales are commonly seen heading north in May–June and heading south in September–October.