About Iluka in Northern New South Wales and its Attractions

For more information visit the Iluka Chamber of Commerce Website

Located in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, Iluka is situated a 17 km drive off the Pacific Highway, 60 km north of Grafton and 76 km south of Ballina. Nestling idyllically on the northern mouth of the Clarence River, Iluka is surrounded by Bundjalung National Park, World Heritage listed Rainforest, the mighty Clarence River and the South Pacific Ocean.

Iluka was proclaimed a township in 1885 and still offers a lifestyle and holiday destination that is a throwback to the past. With a permanent population of around 2500, Iluka has so far avoided the over commercialised coastal development that now characterises many seaside destinations, enabling it to offer a truly relaxing holiday experience centred on water based activities and walking – the latter can also be enjoyed as an aspect of a game of bowls or round of golf at the local clubs.

Commercial fishing has been the lifeblood of Iluka and the local fleet whilst reducing in number, still plies its trade from the Iluka harbour returning with its catch to the local fishing co-operative. Recreational fishing in Iluka is excellent and well renowned, with an abundance of good fishing spots along the river, ocean shore or accessible by boat but be warned, you may have to compete with resident dolphins and pelicans for your catch.

Iluka is also fortunate to have the largest remnant of seaside (littoral) rainforest in NSW and this is easily enjoyed via a gentle, well defined walking track that meanders through the forest and facilitates access for the disabled. The rainforest obtains moisture from the ocean that is filtered by the sand and supports rich vegetation and abundant bird life. Iluka is a haven for Australian fauna with coastal emus and many rare species of birds including sea eagles, ospreys and oyster catchers regularly seen in the vicinity.

There are excellent surfing and swimming beaches, including a netted area in Iluka Bay and there is 4WD access (permit required) to many kilometres of unspoilt beach in and around Iluka. Surfing is best adjacent to the Northern Break Wall or at Iluka Bluff where the more energetic can walk up to the spectacular lookout and enjoy the view or watch for whales on their annual breeding migration.

Whilst certainly not overdeveloped, Iluka offers a wide range of visitor accommodation from motel to caravan park, bed and breakfast, anything from swish self catering apartment to tent and although you will not find any shopping malls in Iluka you will find retail outlets offering all you need to survive including a local pub, a butcher, supermarkets, bakers, cafes, gift shops, a post office, a newsagent and a chemist.