Photo: Pascal Vuylsteker from Paris, France - Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0
Murramarang National Park hugs the South Coast of New South Wales, a stunning stretch of protected coastline where ancient forests meet wild surf beaches. This is a place for raw, untamed nature—think dramatic sea cliffs, quiet coves, and abundant wildlife. It’s a favourite for self-drive travellers seeking a break from the highway, with easy access to walking trails, swimming spots, and some of the best coastal camping in the state.
Highlights & What to See
- Durras Lake & North Durras Beach: A tranquil lake perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, separated from the ocean by a narrow spit. The beach offers excellent swimming and long walks along the sand.
- Pebbly Beach: Famous for its resident eastern grey kangaroos that laze on the sand, often at sunrise. It’s a magical spot for a picnic and a swim, with a sheltered cove ideal for families.
- Depot Beach: A picturesque, patrolled beach with a campground right behind the dunes. The nearby rock pools are great for exploring at low tide.
- Murramarang Aboriginal Area: A protected area featuring a significant Aboriginal midden site and a short walking track that reveals layers of Indigenous history and coastal views.
- Wasp Head & Bawley Point: Rugged headlands with dramatic rock formations and blowholes. The Wasp Head walking track offers panoramic views and a chance to spot migrating whales (May–November).
Suggested Time to Spend
Spend at least two days to fully appreciate the park—one day to explore the northern beaches and another to discover the southern coves. If you’re camping, three days allows for a relaxed pace with time for kayaking on Durras Lake and a coastal walk. Day-trippers from Batemans Bay can hit the highlights in a single day, but you’ll want to linger.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Batemans Bay: Just 20 minutes north, this lively town is the gateway to the park, with excellent seafood, oyster farms, and the Eurobodalla Botanic Gardens.
- Mogo: A historic gold-rush village with quirky shops, a zoo, and a microbrewery—perfect for a stop-off on the way to the park.
- Ulladulla & Milton: Charming coastal towns about 30 minutes north, offering a vibrant café scene, art galleries, and the scenic Ulladulla Harbour.
- Jervis Bay: A 45-minute drive north brings you to one of Australia’s whitest sand beaches and exceptional snorkelling at Booderee National Park.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Batemans Bay — MrMosely / CC0
- Ulladulla — Nick-D / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Jervis Bay — Charliekay / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Eurobodalla National Park — Pete from NSW Far South Coast, Australia / CC BY 2.0
- Deua National Park — Poyt448 Peter Woodard / CC0