Ben Boyd National Park

Stretching along the Sapphire Coast of southern New South Wales, Ben Boyd National Park is a wild and windswept landscape of dramatic sea cliffs, ancient forests, and historic lighthouses. Named after a 19th-century entrepreneur, this park offers a raw, untamed coastal experience that feels a world away from the nearby tourist hubs. With its striking red-and-white sandstone cliffs, secluded beaches, and excellent walking trails, it's a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs exploring the far south coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Green Cape Lighthouse – Australia's southernmost lighthouse, perched on towering cliffs with panoramic ocean views. The surrounding boardwalk offers excellent whale-watching during migration season (June–November).
• Light to Light Walk – A 30 km multi-day coastal trek (or shorter day walks) connecting Boyd's Tower to Green Cape, passing through heathlands, forests, and pristine beaches. The section from Saltwater Creek to Green Cape is particularly scenic.
• Boyd's Tower – A striking stone tower built as a whale-watching lookout, now a landmark overlooking the rugged coast. The nearby picnic area is a great spot for a break.
• Pinnacles Loop Trail – A short walk to the Pinnacles, a series of colourful, eroded sandstone formations that glow golden at sunset. The trail also offers views over Disaster Bay.
• Secluded Beaches – Discover quiet coves like Bittangabee Bay (with a historic campsite) and Saltwater Creek Beach, perfect for a peaceful swim or picnic away from the crowds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a day exploring the park's southern highlights, including the Green Cape area and the Pinnacles. For a more immersive experience, plan for two days: use the first day to walk sections of the Light to Light Walk and visit Boyd's Tower, then spend the second day driving north to the Pinnacles and enjoying a beach stop. Camping at Bittangabee Bay or Green Cape is a fantastic way to soak up the coastal atmosphere and catch sunrise over the sea.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Eden – A charming fishing town just south of the park, known for its Killer Whale Museum and excellent seafood. It's a great base for exploring the national park.
• Merimbula – A lively coastal resort with beautiful beaches, a lake, and the popular Magic Mountain theme park. About a 30-minute drive north.
• Bega – Famous for its cheese (Bega Cheese Heritage Centre), this inland town is a good stop for foodies. Around 45 minutes inland.
• Nadgee Nature Reserve – A pristine wilderness area just south of the border in Victoria, offering more remote coastal walks and camping. Perfect for extending your nature adventure.

Please check official sources for current details.