Great Southern Walk

Stretching across the rugged southern coast of New South Wales, the Great Southern Walk is a multi-day hiking trail that traces ancient Aboriginal pathways, winds through pristine national parks, and hugs dramatic sea cliffs. This is a journey of raw natural beauty—think whale-watching lookouts, secluded beaches, and temperate rainforest—that rewards walkers with a deep sense of solitude and connection to the land.

Highlights & What to See

• Kiama Coast Walk: A stunning coastal stretch past the famous Kiama Blowhole, volcanic rock pools, and the historic Kiama Lighthouse.
• Seven Mile Beach National Park: A long sweep of golden sand backed by coastal heath, perfect for spotting migratory whales and seabirds.
• Budderoo National Park: Walk to the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, where boardwalks loop through towering tree ferns and cascading waterfalls.
• Jervis Bay: Renowned for its white-sand beaches (Hyams Beach) and clear turquoise waters; kayak among pods of bottlenose dolphins.
• Booderee National Park: Aboriginal-owned park with shell middens, botanic gardens, and the pristine Murrays Beach.
• Cape St George Lighthouse Ruins: A hauntingly beautiful historical site on the cliffs of Booderee, offering panoramic views.

Suggested Time to Spend

The full Great Southern Walk stretches about 220 km and can be broken into 5–7 day sections. For a taste, spend 2–3 days on the Kiama to Jervis Bay segment, hiking 8–15 km per day. Allow extra time for side trips, swimming, and wildlife watching—early mornings are best for spotting kangaroos and lyrebirds. If you're short on time, tackle the Kiama Coast Walk as a day hike (4–6 hours).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kiama: A charming seaside town with excellent cafés and the historic Kiama Lighthouse.
• Sydney: Begin or end your walk with a visit to Australia's largest city, just 90 minutes north of Kiama.
• Canberra: Australia's capital, about 2 hours inland, offers national museums and galleries.
• Shoalhaven Coast: Explore the villages of Berry and Kangaroo Valley, known for farm gates and craft breweries.
• Namadgi National Park: Alpine hiking and Aboriginal rock art sites near the ACT border.

Please check official sources for current details.