Donghe

Donghe is a laid-back coastal village on the east coast of New South Wales, known for its untouched beaches, excellent surf breaks, and a bohemian, off-the-beaten-path vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can spend days wandering empty shorelines, swimming in rock pools, and watching sea eagles soar overhead. The town itself is small, with a few cafés and a general store, but the real draw is the raw natural beauty and the sense of being far from the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Donghe Beach: A stunning, long stretch of golden sand with consistent waves, perfect for surfing, bodyboarding, or simply relaxing. The southern end is popular for swimming when conditions are calm.
• Donghe Headland: A short walk from the beach offers panoramic views of the coastline and the opportunity to spot migrating whales (May–November). The rock platform is great for photography at sunrise.
• Donghe Rock Pool: A natural ocean pool carved into the headland, ideal for a safe swim away from the surf. It’s a favourite with families and locals.
• Donghe River: The river mouth meets the sea at the northern end of the beach, forming a calm estuary that’s perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing. Look for rays and pelicans in the shallows.
• Bingi Dreaming Track: A scenic coastal walking trail that runs south from Donghe to Bingi Beach, passing through coastal heath and offering dramatic cliff views. Allow 2–3 hours return for the full walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Donghe is best enjoyed as a relaxed stopover of one to two days. If you’re on a self-drive itinerary along the Sapphire Coast, plan to arrive in the afternoon, watch the sunset over the headland, and spend the next morning exploring the beach and walking trails. It’s a perfect place to slow down and recharge between busier destinations like Batemans Bay and Merimbula. For surfers, a longer stay of three days gives you time to chase different swell directions at the beach breaks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Batemans Bay: A lively town 30 minutes north, with oyster farms, the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden, and the Clyde River for kayaking and fishing.
• Mystery Bay: A tiny, secluded cove 10 minutes south with a beautiful beach and a historic stone cottage – perfect for a quiet picnic.
• Narooma: About 45 minutes south, famous for the natural rock formation Australia Rock, the Narooma Inlet, and excellent seafood at the local fish co-op.
• Bingi Beach: A pristine, less-visited beach just south of Donghe, accessible via the Bingi Dreaming Track or a short drive – great for a peaceful swim or walk.
• Bodalla: A historic dairy town 20 minutes inland, known for the Bodalla Dairy Shed (artisan cheeses and ice cream) and the picturesque St John’s Church.

Please check official sources for current details.