The lure of Yamba: The holiday destination people want to live
Yamba is one of those cherished holiday destinations that tugs at the heartstrings of every Australian who has visited. Nestled in the picturesque Clarence Valley, halfway between Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay, this coastal enclave has long captured the imagination of travellers.
There’s a romantic familiarity to Yamba — a nostalgic charm that draws people back. Many who holidayed here as children now return with their own families, often dreaming of retiring in the area or at least spending a significant part of their retirement soaking in its laid-back lifestyle.
Historically, Yamba's property market has catered primarily to families, with a strong bias toward standalone homes. Of the 2,800 dwellings in the town, over 75 per cent are separate houses. However, the modern downsizer is seeking something different — a low-maintenance lifestyle that doesn't sacrifice space or comfort. They want convenience and quality without the burden of maintaining large gardens or expansive homes.
Recognising this shift, boutique Sydney developer Cadmium Property has stepped in to fill the gap. Known for their successful residential and commercial projects across some of Sydney’s most sought-after inner-ring suburbs, Cadmium has now launched The Grove — a limited collection of just 14 architecturally designed townhouses on Mulgi Street, adjacent to the Yamba Golf & Country Club and just a short stroll from the heart of town.
Designed by BDA Architecture, with interiors curated by Your Home Designs, The Grove blends sophisticated coastal living with practicality. The townhouses feature high-quality finishes and a calming neutral palette that mirrors the surrounding natural landscape. Each residence includes three spacious bedrooms and open-plan living areas that flow effortlessly into private outdoor zones. Select homes will even boast their own plunge pools — perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach or golf course.
As an optional add-on, Cadmium is offering internal lifts in each townhouse, connecting the two levels from the private garages — future-proofing the homes for generations to come.
Ray White Gold Coast Head of Projects, Caitlin Rosenboom, says interest in The Grove is split between two types of owner-occupiers.
“There are the locals, who haven’t seen any development like this in their town before,” Rosenboom says. “Buying something before it’s built isn’t something locals here are familiar with. There’s a education piece involved in the buying process — a process that off the plan buyers in major capital cities have already been through.”
Rosenboom says there’s another cohort of owner-occupiers who are part investors.
“They’re planning to holiday-let the townhomes once they’re completed, while also using them for family getaways during school holidays. The returns are exceptionally good for those looking to rent them out short-term.”
Rosenboom adds that while some coastal communities in northern New South Wales have been overrun with tourists, traffic, and transient visitors, Yamba has retained its village and community charm.
“It feels like Byron Bay was 10 years ago,” Rosenboom says. “There’s been some gentrification and investment, but not too long ago this was a sleepy beachside town with just a local fish and chip shop. Now there are fresh food markets every week and a growing café and hospitality scene.”
The Grove townhouses will be located just a short walk from the town centre, passing the Bowlo Sports & Leisure and the Yamba Golf and Country Club.
Verdecon has been appointed as the builder for The Grove, with construction set to commence imminently.
