The name Nambucca is derived from the Aboriginal word meaning ‘entrance to waters’. Explore the tranquil waterway where bottlenose dolphins frolic in the estuary. Golfers will be thrilled, too. The Island Golf Club is an 18-hole course on Stuart Island in the middle of the river.
For sweeping views of Nambucca beaches and beyond, the Captain Cook Lookout above pretty Shelly Beach is a great vantage point for whale watching when majestic humpback whales migrate along the coast between May and November.
In a beachside reserve at Shelly Beach are picnic tables and barbecue facilities. Beach fishing is popular, and there is a boat ramp at the southern end. Other popular beaches north of Shelly include Beilbys Beach and Main Beach, home of the Nambucca Heads Surf Life Saving Club.
South of the river mouth is Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park, jointly managed with the Gumbaynggir Aboriginal people, the traditional owners. South Beach is a favourite for experienced surfers and beach fishers. There are rainforest walking trails, and Warrell Creek is ideal for kayaking.
The Nambucca Valley is halfway between Sydney and Brisbane and only 40min drive south of Coffs Harbour. Direct flights operate from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to Coffs Harbour Airport or you can catch the train from Sydney. Plenty of waterfront accommodation is available, from caravanning and camping in holiday parks to luxury retreats.
