Photo: Pascal Vuylsteker from Paris, France - Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0
Murramarang National Park is a coastal gem on the South Coast of NSW, where ancient forests meet dramatic sea cliffs and pristine beaches. This protected area offers a raw, untamed landscape that feels a world away from the bustling cities, yet it's just a few hours' drive from Sydney. The park is a haven for wildlife, especially the resident eastern grey kangaroos that laze on the beaches at dawn and dusk. For travellers seeking a blend of coastal walks, Aboriginal heritage, and serene camping spots, Murramarang delivers an authentic Australian bush-and-beach experience.
Highlights & What to See
- Pebbly Beach – The park's most famous stretch of sand, where kangaroos often gather on the grass at the edge of the beach. It's a surreal sight to see these iconic marsupials against a backdrop of turquoise water.
- Murramarang Aboriginal Area – Explore ancient middens, rock shelters, and cultural sites that tell the story of the Yuin people. The guided walks offer deep insight into traditional land management and bush tucker.
- Coastal Walking Track – A 4.5-km one-way trail from Pebbly Beach to the southern end of the park, hugging the cliffs with sweeping ocean views. Keep an eye out for whales during migration season (May–November).
- Depot Beach – A quieter alternative to Pebbly Beach, with a shady picnic area and a gentle lagoon perfect for a paddle. It's also a launch point for kayaking.
- Birdwatching at the Mangroves – The park's estuaries and wetlands attract a rich variety of birdlife, including sea eagles, kingfishers, and migratory waders.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors find that a full day is enough to experience the park's highlights: a morning walk on the Coastal Walking Track, a picnic lunch at Pebbly Beach, and an afternoon exploring the Aboriginal area. If you have camping gear, staying overnight at one of the park's campgrounds (like Pebbly Beach or Depot Beach) allows you to enjoy the magical kangaroo-filled dawn and stargazing without the crowds. For a relaxed pace, two days gives you time to swim, kayak, and truly unwind.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Batemans Bay – Just a 20-minute drive north, this coastal town offers fresh seafood, oyster farms, and the Clyde River estuary for boating and fishing.
- Mogo – A historic gold-rush village with quirky shops, a zoo, and a chance to pan for gold. It's a fun half-day detour.
- Ulladulla – A fishing port with a scenic harbour, the popular Warden Head walking track, and the annual Blessing of the Fleet festival.
- Jervis Bay – About an hour's drive north, renowned for its white-sand beaches (Hyams Beach) and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and dolphin-watching.
- Eurobodalla National Park – Adjacent to the south, this park offers more coastal lagoons, birdlife, and the historic Congo Point.
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
- Pebbly Beach — Pascal Vuylsteker from Paris, France - Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0