Bawley Point

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 turquoise surf. Far from the crowds, this is a place to kick off your shoes, breathe in the salt air, and watch the sun melt into the Pacific from a headland lookout. The village itself is tiny – a general store, a surf club, and a handful of holiday houses – but its raw natural beauty is the real draw. Whether you're a surfer chasing a long left-hander, a kayaker exploring hidden inlets, or a family seeking a simple beach escape, Bawley Point feels like a secret you want to keep.

Highlights & What to See

• Bawley Point Beach: A sweeping arc of white sand that's perfect for swimming, sunbaking, and long walks. The southern end is patrolled in summer, while the northern end attracts surfers when the swell's up.
• Gannet Beach: A quieter, dog-friendly stretch just south of the point, backed by low dunes and scrub – ideal for a peaceful picnic with the sound of waves as your soundtrack.
• Bawley Point Headland: A short walk from the car park leads to a rocky platform with panoramic views south to Durras and beyond. Keep an eye out for whales during migration (June–November) and pods of dolphins playing in the waves below.
• Murramarang National Park: The park envelops the village, offering walking trails through spotted gum forests and along the coast. The 5 km Bawley Point to Kioloa walk is a stunner, weaving between beaches, rock platforms, and wildflower heath.
• Wasp Head: A dramatic headland with a blowhole that spouts on a southerly swell. It's also a great spot for rock fishing (take care) and watching the sunset paint the cliffs gold.

Suggested Time to Spend

Bawley Point rewards a slow pace. A weekend (two nights) gives you time to explore the beaches, do the coastal walk, and enjoy a relaxed lunch at the local café. If you're passing through on a road trip, a half-day stop is enough for a swim and a headland stroll – but you'll likely wish you'd booked a longer stay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kioloa: Just 5 minutes north, with a beautiful patrolled beach and the historic Kioloa Mill site.
• Pretty Beach: A serene, protected cove within Murramarang National Park, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Durras Lake & North Durras: A tranquil lake system ideal for canoeing, plus a stunning surf beach with a coastal walk to Durras Head.
• Batemans Bay: The regional hub, 30 minutes north, with oyster farms, the Clyde River estuary, and the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden.
• Mogo: A historic gold-rush village with a zoo, artisan shops, and the Mogo State Forest for mountain biking.

Please check official sources for current details.