Shoalhaven River

Flowing through a landscape of eucalypt forests, sandstone gorges and historic rural towns, the Shoalhaven River offers a quintessential New South Wales escape. It’s a place where you can paddle a canoe past ancient rock formations, swim in crystal-clear pools, and explore villages that feel frozen in time. The river’s lower reaches widen into a broad estuary near the coast, while its upper sections are a haven for wildlife and solitude. Whether you’re after a peaceful paddle or a scenic drive, the Shoalhaven rewards the curious traveller.

Highlights & What to See

• Tallowa Dam & Lake Yarrunga – The dam created a long, narrow lake perfect for kayaking and fishing. Paddle through flooded valleys and spot waterbirds in the still backwaters.
• Morton National Park – The river cuts through this park, offering dramatic gorges, waterfalls and lookouts. The Fitzroy Falls are a must-see, plunging 81m into the valley.
• Bundanoon – A charming village with a strong food scene, known for its farmers’ markets and the nearby glow-worm tunnels (old railway tunnels now home to thousands of glow-worms).
• Historic towns: Berry & Kangaroo Valley – Berry is a picture-perfect country town with antique shops and cafes; Kangaroo Valley boasts a historic wooden bridge and the Hampden Bridge, plus excellent walking trails.
• Shoalhaven River Canoe Trail – A multi-day paddling route from Bungonia to the coast, passing through serene gorges and past Aboriginal rock art sites.
• Nowra & the Shoalhaven Estuary – The river meets the sea near Nowra, where you can join a river cruise, try oyster tasting, or walk the Booderee National Park coastal paths.

Suggested Time to Spend

To experience the river’s variety, allow at least two full days. Spend the first day exploring the upper reaches: paddle on Lake Yarrunga or walk in Morton National Park. On the second day, head downstream to the historic towns of Berry and Kangaroo Valley, and end with a river cruise or seafood lunch in Nowra. If you’re a keen paddler, add a third day for the canoe trail. The region is compact enough for a relaxed pace, but the highlights reward those who linger.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jervis Bay – Just east, famous for white-sand beaches and dolphin-watching; combine for a coastal-meets-river trip.
• Southern Highlands (Bowral, Moss Vale) – An hour inland, offering cool-climate gardens, antique shopping and fine dining.
• Kiama & the South Coast – Head north along the coast to see the Kiama Blowhole and the scenic sea cliffs.
• Blue Mountains – A day-trip west: dramatic sandstone escarpments and the Three Sisters, easily linked with the Shoalhaven on a longer itinerary.
• Canberra – Australia’s capital is two hours south-west, ideal for a cultural detour with museums and galleries.

Please check official sources for current details.