Boydtown

Perched on the shores of Twofold Bay, Boydtown is a tiny historic hamlet that feels like a step back in time. This pocket-sized settlement, founded by Scottish adventurer Benjamin Boyd in the 1840s, is all about quiet coastal beauty and a single, magnificent ruin: the Seahorse Inn. It's a perfect, off-the-beaten-path stop for anyone driving the Sapphire Coast, offering a glimpse into 19th-century whaling history and the chance to stretch your legs on a wild, windswept beach.

Highlights & What to See

• Seahorse Inn Ruins: The centrepiece of Boydtown is the shell of a grand Georgian inn, built from local sandstone. Wander around the exterior and imagine the balls and banquets that once took place here—it’s one of the most atmospheric historic sites on the NSW coast.
• Twofold Bay Lookout: A short walk or drive up the hill behind the inn rewards you with panoramic views over the bay, where you can often spot dolphins or migrating whales (May–November).
• Boydtown Beach: A long, empty stretch of sand perfect for a solitary stroll. The water can be rough for swimming, but it’s a great spot for beachcombing and photography.
• Whaling History: Boydtown was a key whaling station. Interpretive signs near the inn explain the area’s role in the whaling industry, including the story of the legendary killer whales of Eden.
• Ben Boyd National Park: The hamlet is a gateway to this coastal park, which features dramatic sea cliffs, lightstations, and the famous Pinnacles—colourful sand formations best seen on a walk from the nearby Tower.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can see the Seahorse Inn ruins, enjoy the lookout, and take a short beach walk in about 30–45 minutes. If you want to explore Ben Boyd National Park (the Pinnacles walk or the Light to Light walk), budget a further 1–2 hours. Boydtown works perfectly as a quick stop on a drive between Batemans Bay and Eden, or as a short detour from the Princes Highway.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Eden (5 km south): A charming fishing town with the excellent Killer Whale Museum, a working harbour, and great seafood. Combine with Boydtown for a half-day coastal outing.
• Ben Boyd National Park: The park’s northern section around the Pinnacles and Green Cape Lightstation is easily accessible from Boydtown and offers spectacular coastal walks.
• Pambula (20 km north): Known for its artisan bakeries, the Pambula Merimbula Golf Club, and the Pambula River, ideal for kayaking and oyster tasting.
• Merimbula (25 km north): A lively resort town with beautiful lakes, a boardwalk, and the Magic Mountain theme park—good for families.
• Bega (45 km north-west): Home of the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre, where you can sample and learn about the region’s famous dairy products.

Please check official sources for current details.