Type

Lookouts

Where

Yarriabini National Park in North Coast

Accessibility

Easy

What to
bring

Hat, sunscreen, drinking water

Please note

• There is limited mobile reception in this park
• Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird watch

Your visit to the Nambucca region just wouldn’t be complete without a day trip to see the magnificent coastal views from Yarriabini lookout. This detour from Way Way Creek Road drive is a scenic drive up to the summit of Mount Yarrahapinni, lined with patches of orange in late winter when the banksias are in flower.

From the top, the views stretch south-east over lush macadamia farms to the Macleay River estuary and Trial Bay. On a clear day, the coastline near Smoky Cape in Hat Head National Park makes a dramatic backdrop to the towns of South West Rocks and Arakoon.

Watch the sun rise over the distant ocean, then head back to Grassy Head for a refreshing surf. Pack a gourmet lunch and enjoy a relaxing picnic with a view while you marvel at the giant old growth forest nearby or visit nearby The Pines picnic area. The lookout is also a great spot for birdwatching and the kids will love the sight of lyrebirds parading around the area.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Visitor info

Maps and downloads

Learn more

Aboriginal culture

Yarriabini, meaning 'koala rolling', is the Aboriginal name for the prominent coastal mountain that dominates the park, also known as Mount Yarrahapinni. The mountain and the surrounding area is part of an important cultural Dreaming story and very significant to the Dunghutti, Ngambaa and Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people. Admire the amazing mosaic artwork at The Pines picnic area and see the important connection Aboriginal people have to the mountains, rivers and forests of this park.

Birdwatcher's haven

Gazing out from Yarriabini lookout or strolling through the rainforest, you're bound to find an abundance of bird watching opportunities. Listen out for the bubbling  "wom-poo" call of the wompoo fruit-dove and look for its multi-coloured plumage among the Bangalow palms at The Pines picnic area or along rainforest creeks. You'll also find several owl species and other types of rainforest pigeons thriving under the rainforest canopy. You might also spot glossy black-cockatoos feeding on casuarina seeds in eastern areas of the park.

Diverse plantlife

Yarriabini's unique geographical location supports a remarkable blend of different vegetation types. You'll find tall old growth forests on the steeper slopes around Scotts Mountain and around Mount Yarrahapinni. Wander through the lush rainforest near The Pines picnic area and see the ferns, lianas and orchids that are part of this unique ecosystem.