Photo: Mark Andrews / CC BY-SA 3.0
Mimosa Rocks National Park is a wild coastal gem on the far south coast of New South Wales, where ancient volcanic rock formations meet pristine beaches and lush rainforest. This lesser-known park offers a raw, untamed beauty that feels a world away from the crowds, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. With its rich Aboriginal heritage (the Yuin people have deep connections here), excellent surfing breaks, and walking trails that weave through diverse landscapes, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the Sapphire Coast.
Highlights & What to See
- Aragunnu Beach and Campground – A stunning, sheltered beach with a campground right behind the dunes; ideal for swimming, kayaking, and spotting kangaroos at dusk.
- Picnic Point Lookout – A short walk leads to panoramic views of the rugged coastline, where you can often see whales migrating (May–November).
- Mimosa Rocks – The park’s namesake rock formations, shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago, are a striking feature along the shore – best explored at low tide.
- Bithry Inlet – A peaceful estuary perfect for paddleboarding, birdwatching, or a quiet picnic; keep an eye out for sea eagles and black swans.
- Wolumla Peak Walk – A moderate 4 km return hike through eucalypt forest to a summit with sweeping views of the park and ocean.
- Moon Bay – A secluded cove with crystal-clear waters, great for snorkelling and a favourite spot for local surfers.
Suggested Time to Spend
To fully appreciate Mimosa Rocks National Park, plan for at least a full day. Spend the morning exploring the coastal walks and beaches, then enjoy a relaxed afternoon paddling on Bithry Inlet or surfing at Moon Bay. If you can, stay overnight at Aragunnu Campground to experience the park’s serene atmosphere at sunrise and sunset. For a longer visit, two days allow you to tackle the longer trails and explore the nearby Tathra or Bermagui.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Tathra – A charming seaside town just north, with a historic wharf, great cafes, and the Tathra Beach Coastal Walk.
- Bermagui – A fishing village south of the park, known for its artisan galleries, fresh seafood, and the scenic Blue Pool rock pool.
- Bournda National Park – Another coastal park nearby with beautiful beaches and the Bournda Lagoon walking track.
- Merimbula – A lively town with a popular boardwalk, oyster farms, and the Merimbula Aquarium – about 30 minutes south.
- Eden – A historic whaling town with the Killer Whale Museum and excellent whale-watching cruises, further south along the coast.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Tathra — Cimexus / CC BY 2.0
- Bermagui — (WT-en) AYArktos at English Wikivoyage / CC BY-SA 2.5
- Bournda National Park — Mark Andrews / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Merimbula — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Eden — Killer_whale_(Old_Tom)_and_whalers_-_original.jpeg : Charles Eden Wellings (1881-1952) derivative work: Avenue ( talk ) / Public domain
- Sapphire Coast — No machine-readable author provided. Roke~commonswiki assumed (based on copyright claims). / CC BY-SA 3.0