Photo: Nick-D / CC BY-SA 4.0
Bawley Point is a sleepy coastal hamlet on the South Coast of New South Wales, where the bush meets the beach in a tangle of banksias and birdlife. This is a place for barefoot days, rock-pool explorations, and sunsets that set the ocean alight. Far from the crowds, Bawley Point offers a genuine slice of coastal Australian life, with a laid-back vibe that encourages you to slow down and breathe.
Highlights & What to See
- Bawley Point Beach: A stunning stretch of sand with a natural rock pool at the southern end, perfect for safe swimming and snorkelling. Watch for dolphins and migrating whales in season.
- Murramarang National Park: This coastal park wraps around the village, offering superb walks through spotted gum forests and along clifftops with panoramic ocean views. The Pebbly Beach kangaroos are a short drive north.
- Durras Mountain Lookout: A rewarding 1.5-hour return walk through ancient forest leads to a lookout with sweeping views over the park and coastline. Do it early for the light and the birds.
- Bawley Point Café: The heart of the village, serving excellent coffee, fresh local seafood, and homemade treats. Grab a takeaway and sit on the grass overlooking the beach.
- Rock Fishing & Surfing: The headlands offer good rock fishing (with caution), while the beach breaks can hold a fun swell for experienced surfers. Check conditions locally.
Suggested Time to Spend
Bawley Point rewards a relaxed pace. Two to three days allows you to explore the national park walks, swim at both ends of the beach, and enjoy a long lunch at the café. It’s an ideal stopover on a South Coast road trip; a single night is enough for a taste, but you’ll wish you stayed longer. Mornings are best for walks when the light is golden and the wildlife is active.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Murramarang National Park – Extends north and south; combine with Pebbly Beach and Durras Lake for a full day of nature.
- Kioloa – A tiny settlement with a beautiful surf beach and a historic general store, just a few minutes south.
- Batemans Bay – The regional hub, 30 minutes north, with oyster farms, the Clyde River, and the Eurobodalla Botanic Gardens.
- Mogo – A historic gold-mining village with a wildlife park and artisan shops, about 25 minutes north-west.
- Pretty Beach – A quieter cove within the national park, ideal for a picnic and a swim, 15 minutes north.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Murramarang National Park — Pascal Vuylsteker from Paris, France - Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Pebbly Beach — Pascal Vuylsteker from Paris, France - Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Kioloa — Roughdraft ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Batemans Bay — MrMosely / CC0
- Durras Lake — jo.elphick / CC CC0 1.0