Durras Lake

Durras Lake is a serene coastal lagoon on the New South Wales South Coast, where the still, dark waters of the lake meet the wild surf of the Pacific. Encircled by dense forest and backed by the dramatic Durras Mountain, this is a place for quiet immersion in nature – kayaking at dawn, spotting lyrebirds in the bush, and swimming in the tannin-stained lake. It’s a hidden gem that feels a world away from the crowds, yet is just a short drive from Batemans Bay.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayaking on the lake: Paddle the glassy surface of Durras Lake at sunrise, when mist hangs over the water and the only sound is the splash of a fish. Rent a kayak from the Lakeside Holiday Park or bring your own.
• Durras Mountain walking track: A steep but rewarding 2.5 km climb through scribbly gum forest to a lookout with panoramic views over the lake, the ocean, and as far as Montague Island. Best done in the morning before the heat.
• Depot Beach: A long, uncrowded stretch of white sand where the lake spills into the sea. Swim in the protected waters near the lake mouth or walk south to find rock pools at low tide.
• Birdwatching and wildlife: The surrounding Murramarang National Park is home to eastern grey kangaroos, swamp wallabies, and over 150 bird species, including the elusive powerful owl. Listen for lyrebirds mimicking camera shutters along the trails.
• Murramarang Aboriginal Area: Just north of the lake, this protected area features ancient middens, a bora ring, and interpretive signs about the Walbunja people’s connection to the land. A short walk leads to a quiet beach perfect for reflection.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days allows you to explore at a relaxed pace. Spend the first day kayaking and swimming, the second hiking Durras Mountain and visiting the Aboriginal area, and the third morning beachcombing before driving on. If you have only one day, focus on the lake paddle and the mountain walk – you can do both in a long day, but you’ll wish you had longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Batemans Bay: 20 minutes north – the region’s hub with oyster farms, seafood restaurants, and the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden.
• Murramarang National Park: The lake is inside this park, but don’t miss the southern section around Pretty Beach and Pebbly Beach, where kangaroos laze on the sand.
• Mogo: A historic gold-mining village 25 minutes away, with a wildlife park, artisan galleries, and the Mogo State Forest for mountain biking.
• Narooma: 45 minutes south – famous for its golf course, the glass-bottom boat tour to Montague Island, and the iconic Australia Rock.
• Ulladulla: An hour north – a pretty fishing port with a harbour, lighthouse walks, and the annual Blessing of the Fleet festival.

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