Guide to Wooli New South Wales Australia

Wooli is a beautiful seaside village with a storybook setting located in the Clarence Valley region, just east of Grafton and south of Yamba. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or an adventure filled holiday, this quaint village offers something for everyone.

Known For:

• 3 kilometre peninsula surrounded by water
• Stunning beaches
• Nature hikes in the national park

With fishing, swimming, surfing and bushwalking opportunities abound, as well as a variety of cafes and restaurants offering friendly service, great food and breathtaking views – Wooli truly is one of Australia’s most special coastal destinations.

On land it is encircled by Yuraygir National Park and the village is located on a narrow peninsula with the Wooli Wooli River on it’s western side and the Pacific Ocean to the east. This section of coastline forms the northern sector of the Solitary Islands Marine Park which protects the estuaries, beaches and islands from the Sandon River to Coffs Harbour in the south.

As the Gateway to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, Wooli is the perfect place for those wanting to explore the natural underwater beauty of the marine park by deepsea diving. Wooli is the only place in the Clarence Valley with a dive shop for those needing diving gear or tank refills.

The Wooli Wooli River can be negotiated for around 20km by canoe or boat. Kangaroos, emus, black-necked storks, brolgas, kingfishers, parrots and all manner of wildlife abound along the banks.

Holidaymakers can find many perfect fishing and picnic spots along the riverbank. The serious angler can chase bigger dreams from the beaches, rocks (the breakwalls are popular) or deepsea where local fishing charters are available into the marine park.

There are many kilometres of secluded beaches in and around Wooli and visitors love to find their own favourite spot to swim, fish, walk or relax.

The Barcoongere State Forest is where the Wooli Wooli River starts its journey. It winds through the Newfoundland State Forest and the Yuraygir National Park along its 34-kilometer length.

Because it is surrounded by nature, it is one of the cleanest rivers in Australia. It is a good place for the Sydney Rock Oyster to grow up. The river can be travelled by canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard for about 20 kilometres. Along the banks, you can see kangaroos, emus, black-necked storks, brolgas, kingfishers, parrots, and many other types of wildlife.

Where To Stay

Wooli Beach

Wooli Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Australian coast. The clear water and abundance of marine life make it a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and fishing. There are also a number of walking tracks that wind through the nearby rainforest, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

You can camp at one of the designated sites near the beach, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even camp on the beach itself! Just be sure to check the tides before you set up camp, as you don’t want to be caught out by a rising tide.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the nearby rainforest, or go camping, Wooli Beach is definitely worth a visit.

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation at Wooli. Wooli has a holiday resort, caravan park, hotel/motel, river lodges, and a plethora of holiday units for rent. You can also camp at Wooli. There are a number of camping grounds located within the Yuraygir National Park, as well as a number of private camping areas.

Wooli Cafés

For a spot of dining out try a delicious meal at the the Emilio’s Bistro at the hotel/motel, Harry’s Chinese Restaurant at the bowling club or the cafe/restaurant at the local kiosk.

• Emilio’s Bistro & Real Pizza at the Wooli Hotel Motel
• Harry’s Chinese Restaurant at the Wooli Bowling Club
• Fletcher’s Cafe at Solitary Islands Marine Park Resort
• Waves at Wooli & Wooli Kiosk
• Wooli Oyster Supply
• Wooli General Store

For a quick snack or meal on the go the general stores or the kiosk. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious local seafood, especially the famous Wooli Oyster.

Things to do

There is a mini putt-putt golf course and canoes for hire at the holiday resort, tennis courts available to the public, deep-sea diving, fishing and whale watching charters, boat hire and eco tours, and bowling club.

Probably one of Australia’s most unique sporting festivals, The Australian National Goanna Pulling Championships is held every year at Easter. By using a thick leather belt strapped to their heads this sport is a test of strength between two combatants trying to pull their opponent across the line to achieve victory (and it’s not just for the men!).

This is always a huge event for the usually quiet seaside village with tug-o-war, brick carrying and sprint races.

The weather in Wooli is generally warm and sunny, with occasional showers. The average summer temperature is 27 degrees Celsius, with the average winter temperature being 22 degrees Celsius.