Cape Carnot National Park

Jutting into the wild Southern Ocean on the far south coast of New South Wales, Cape Carnot National Park is a windswept sanctuary of dramatic sea cliffs, pristine heathlands, and ancient rock formations. This lesser-known gem offers a raw, untamed beauty that rewards those who venture off the beaten track. With its rich Aboriginal heritage, superb coastal walks, and exceptional whale-watching opportunities, it's a place where you can feel the full force of nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Cape Carnot Headland Walk – A breathtaking 4 km return trail along towering cliffs, with panoramic views over the Southern Ocean. Keep an eye out for southern right whales during their migration (June–November).
• Pebbly Beach – A secluded cove of smooth, rounded pebbles, perfect for a picnic amidst the sound of crashing waves. Accessible via a short, steep track.
• Aboriginal Cultural Sites – The park protects significant middens and artefact scatters, evidence of thousands of years of Indigenous occupation. Respect these sites and do not disturb them.
• Birdwatching – Spot sooty oystercatchers, white-bellied sea eagles, and the endangered eastern bristlebird among the coastal heath.
• Wildflower Displays – In spring, the headlands burst into colour with native blooms including flannel flowers, boronias, and trigger plants.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day exploring the headland walk and Pebbly Beach. If you're keen on birdwatching or simply soaking in the solitude, allow a full day. The park is compact enough to combine with a morning elsewhere, but the ever-changing light on the cliffs makes an afternoon visit particularly magical. Bring sturdy shoes, windproof layers, and plenty of water – there are no facilities inside the park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bermagui – Just north, this charming fishing town offers great seafood, a sheltered harbour, and the iconic Horseshoe Bay.
• Mimosa Rocks National Park – A short drive north, with more stunning coastal walks, sea caves, and the historic Mimosa Rocks.
• Montague Island Nature Reserve – Accessible by boat from Narooma, this island is a haven for seabirds, seals, and penguins, with guided tours available.
• Gulaga National Park – Inland from Tilba, this park protects the sacred Mount Gulaga, with walking trails through lush rainforest and significant Aboriginal cultural sites.
• Narooma – A vibrant coastal town with beautiful beaches, the famous Australia Rock, and excellent oyster farming – perfect for a seafood lunch.

Please check official sources for current details.