Booderee National Park

On the south coast of New South Wales, Booderee National Park is a stunning Aboriginal-owned park where white-sand beaches meet turquoise waters, lush bushland, and dramatic cliffs. Managed jointly by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community and Parks Australia, this pristine reserve offers a rare blend of rich Indigenous culture and untouched nature. The name 'Booderee' means 'bay of plenty' in the Dhurga language, and the park truly lives up to it with abundant wildlife, excellent swimming spots, and some of the best coastal walks in the region.

Highlights & What to See

• Murrays Beach: A picture-perfect crescent of white sand lapped by crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking.
• Steamers Beach: A wilder, more remote beach accessible via a scenic walk through heath and forest – keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies.
• Booderee Botanic Gardens: The only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in Australia, showcasing native plants and offering insights into Indigenous bush-tucker and medicine.
• Cape St George Lighthouse: The ruins of a historic lighthouse perched on dramatic cliffs, with sweeping ocean views and interpretive signs about the area's maritime history.
• The Booderee Coastal Walk: A 5.5 km loop that takes in the park's best scenery – from the lighthouse to Murrays Beach and back through coastal heath.

Suggested Time to Spend

To fully appreciate Booderee, plan for at least a full day. This gives you time to explore the main beaches, walk the coastal track, and visit the botanic gardens. If you're keen on swimming and snorkeling, consider overnighting in the nearby town of Huskisson or camping within the park (book ahead in peak season). A half-day is enough for a quick taste, but you'll wish you had longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jervis Bay: Famous for its white-sand beaches and dolphin-watching cruises – Hyams Beach, just outside the park, claims the whitest sand in the world.
• Huskisson: A charming seaside village with cafes, restaurants, and whale-watching tours (May–November).
• Shoalhaven Heads: A relaxed coastal town with a golf course and easy access to the Shoalhaven River.
• Nowra: The regional hub, offering historic buildings, markets, and the Shoalhaven Zoo.

Please check official sources for current details.