Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
23/08/2025
Jonas Schallenberg, Pexels
Wooli, a tranquil coastal town, offers a serene escape nestled on a narrow peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the pristine Wooli Wooli River. Visitors come to experience a laid-back atmosphere, enjoying a variety of water-based activities and exploring the surrounding natural parks.
For those looking to socialise, the family-friendly Wooli Bowling Club provides a welcoming environment with a Chinese restaurant, barefoot bowls, happy hour, and evening raffles. Additionally, the Wooli Holiday Park features a communal camp kitchen, offering a gathering spot for guests.
Top 7 Things to do in Wooli
Visitors to Wooli can immerse themselves in water-based adventures along the pristine river and ocean, explore scenic coastal walking trails, and enjoy local cultural experiences.
1. Kayaking or Paddleboarding the Wooli Wooli River
Paddling along the Wooli Wooli River offers a serene way to experience one of Australia's purest waterways. As you glide, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife such as stingrays, turtles beneath the surface, and kangaroos on the riverbanks. The calm waters, especially in the morning, provide a peaceful setting to enjoy the surrounding Yuraygir National Park scenery.
Cost: Self-guided options include hiring a runabout boat from Wooli River Boat Hire, with rates such as $140 for 5 hours or $200 for 8 hours. Fishing gear is also available for hire. Kayaks can be rented from the local dive shop, or guests staying at some accommodations, like Blue River Apartments, may have access to free kayak use.
Transport: The river is easily accessible from various points within Wooli, often within walking distance of central accommodations.
2. Diving, Snorkelling, and Whale Watching in Solitary Islands Marine Park
As a gateway to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, Wooli provides opportunities to explore an unforgettable underwater world. Embark on a diving or snorkelling tour to witness a rich diversity of tropical and temperate marine life, including vibrant corals, reef fish, dolphins, and turtles. From May through November, visitors can join scenic cruises for whale watching, observing the magnificent humpback whales during their migration.
Cost: Tour prices for diving, snorkelling, and whale watching vary. It is recommended to contact Wooli Dive Centre directly for current pricing and booking details.
Transport: Tours typically depart from the Wooli Dive Centre, which is located centrally within the village.
3. Fishing the Wooli Wooli River or Deep Sea
Wooli is renowned as a prime fishing destination, catering to both seasoned anglers and beginners. Visitors can cast a line from the riverbanks, jetties, or a hired boat in the Wooli Wooli River for species like flathead, bream, and whiting. For a more exhilarating experience, consider a deep-sea fishing charter into the Solitary Islands Marine Park, where you might catch snapper, kingfish, and other offshore species.
Cost: A NSW recreational fishing license is required for individuals aged 18 and over. A guided river fishing experience with a local expert can be arranged for approximately $100 per person for a 4-hour trip. For deep-sea charters, contact local operators like Wooli Fishing Charters for pricing.
Transport: River fishing spots are generally walkable from village accommodations, or you can use a hired boat. Deep-sea fishing charters depart from local boat ramps or the Wooli Dive Centre.
4. Hiking in Yuraygir National Park (Wilsons Headland Walk)
Encompassing much of Wooli, Yuraygir National Park invites exploration through its coastal walking tracks. The Wilsons Headland Walking Track is an accessible option that offers stunning ocean views, leading you past pristine beaches and quiet coves. Along the way, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife including birds, and during migration season (May-November), dolphins and whales offshore. The park's varied landscape of cliffs, headlands, and forests provides a refreshing natural escape.
Cost: Access to walking tracks in Yuraygir National Park is generally free of charge.
Transport: Wilsons Headland is situated a short drive north of Wooli. Vehicle access to picnic areas is available.
5. Relaxing and Swimming at Wooli Beach or the River Mouth Lagoon
The expansive Wooli Beach offers kilometres of unspoilt coastline, perfect for leisurely swims, sunbathing, or beachcombing. During peak holiday seasons, the beach is patrolled, ensuring a safe swimming environment. For those preferring calm, sheltered waters, the lagoon at the mouth of the Wooli Wooli River provides a serene swimming spot with crystal-clear water, especially enjoyable at high tide.
Cost: Free.
Transport: Wooli Beach and the river mouth are easily accessible by foot from most parts of the village.
6. Savouring Fresh Local Oysters
Wooli is celebrated for its exquisite Sydney Rock Oysters, which are cultivated in the exceptionally clean Wooli Wooli River. This river is known as one of Australia's most pristine waterway systems, contributing to the oysters' pure and delicious flavour. The prime season for enjoying these fresh local delicacies typically runs from October to April.
Cost: The cost of oysters varies based on the quantity and where they are purchased, such as from local vendors or eateries.
Transport: Fresh oysters can be found within the village, making them easily accessible by walking or a short drive.
7. Barefoot Bowls and Socialising at Wooli Bowling Club
For a taste of local social life and a relaxed activity, visitors can enjoy barefoot bowls at the family-friendly Wooli Bowling Club. This club serves as a community hub, featuring a Chinese restaurant and hosting regular events like happy hour and evening raffles, providing a welcoming environment to interact with locals and fellow travelers.
Cost: A small green fee may apply for barefoot bowls. Food and beverages are purchased separately.
Transport: The Wooli Bowling Club is centrally located on Riverside Drive. A courtesy bus is available for transport within the local area.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
