Shoalhaven Coast

Stretching from the southern edge of Sydney’s Royal National Park down to the mouth of the Shoalhaven River, the Shoalhaven Coast is a captivating blend of pristine beaches, lush hinterland, and laidback coastal towns. This is where you’ll find some of New South Wales’ best-kept secrets: uncrowded surf breaks, oyster farms, and a thriving local food scene that celebrates the region’s bounty. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a gourmand, the Shoalhaven Coast offers a relaxed escape with plenty to explore.

Highlights & What to See

• Jervis Bay – Famous for its dazzling white sand and crystal-clear waters, this is a must-visit for swimming, kayaking, and spotting dolphins or migrating whales (May–November).
• Huskisson – A charming seaside village with a bustling main street, waterfront dining, and the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum. Don’t miss the fresh oysters at local shacks.
• Booderee National Park – Aboriginal-owned park with stunning coastal walks, secluded beaches (like Murrays Beach), and rich Indigenous cultural sites.
• Seven Mile Beach National Park – An unspoiled stretch of sand perfect for long walks, birdwatching, and a dip in the ocean.
• Milton & Ulladulla – Historic towns with a vibrant arts scene, farmers’ markets, and the iconic Pigeon House Mountain for a rewarding hike.
• Kangaroo Valley – A scenic detour inland: rolling green hills, the historic Hampden Bridge, and opportunities for canoeing, bushwalking, and spotting kangaroos at dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate the Shoalhaven Coast, plan for at least three to four days. This allows for a relaxed pace: a day exploring Jervis Bay and its beaches, another for Booderee National Park and the coastal walks, and a day to venture into the hinterland (Kangaroo Valley or the Morton National Park). If you’re short on time, a two-day blitz can cover the highlights of Jervis Bay and Huskisson, but you’ll miss the quieter gems. For self-drivers, the region is easily combined with a trip down the Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kiama – Famous for its blowhole, lighthouse, and scenic coastal walk, just 40 minutes north.
• Batemans Bay – Gateway to the Eurobodalla Coast, known for its oyster farms and the Murramarang National Park, about an hour south.
• Royal National Park – Australia’s oldest national park, offering bushwalks, waterfalls, and the scenic Figure Eight Pools (check tide times).
• Southern Highlands – A cool-climate escape with boutique wineries, antique shops, and historic villages like Bowral and Berrima, a 45-minute drive inland.
• Canberra – The national capital is a 2.5-hour drive west, perfect for a cultural detour with museums, galleries, and Parliament House.

Please check official sources for current details.