Tathra

Perched on a rugged headland just south of Bermagui, Tathra is a classic Sapphire Coast beach town that feels wonderfully unpretentious. Its centrepiece is the historic Tathra Wharf, a timber pier that juts into the Pacific and is the last of its kind on the NSW south coast. With a sweeping surf beach, a protected lagoon, and a laid-back village vibe, Tathra is the kind of place where you kick off your shoes and stay longer than planned.

Highlights & What to See

• Tathra Wharf: This iconic 1862 timber wharf is perfect for a sunset stroll, fishing, or spotting whales (May–November). The adjacent museum tells the story of coastal shipping.
• Tathra Beach: A long, patrolled beach with consistent waves for surfers and a calm southern end for paddlers. The headland walk offers stunning coastal views.
• Mimosa Rocks National Park: Just north, this park features secluded beaches, sea caves, and Aboriginal middens. Don’t miss the natural rock pool at Bithry Inlet.
• Tathra Lagoon: A bird-filled haven behind the beach – bring binoculars for waterbirds and migratory waders.
• Surf & Swim: Tathra is a reliable surf spot; lessons and board hire are available in town. The calm waters of the lagoon are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find a full day sufficient to explore the wharf, beach, and a short walk in Mimosa Rocks National Park. If you want to surf, kayak the lagoon, or hike longer trails, plan for two days and overnight in one of the town’s beachside holiday rentals or the caravan park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bermagui: A 10-minute drive north – a lively fishing town with a great farmers market, galleries, and the famous Blue Pool rock pool.
• Merimbula: 25 minutes south – a larger resort town with a lake system, oyster farms, and the Magic Mountain theme park.
• Eden: 40 minutes south – whaling history, the Killer Whale Museum, and superb whale-watching cruises.
• Bega: 30 minutes inland – head here for the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre and the Bega Valley’s cool-climate wineries.
• Bournda National Park: A 30-minute drive south – offers excellent coastal walking tracks and secluded beaches like Bournda Beach.

Please check official sources for current details.