Bermagui

Bermagui is a laid-back coastal town on the NSW Sapphire Coast, where the pristine waters of Horseshoe Bay meet a lively fishing port. This is a place for salty sea air, fresh oysters, and a relaxed pace that feels a world away from the highway. The town’s name is derived from an Aboriginal word for ‘canoe with paddles’, and its maritime heritage is still very much alive in the daily catch brought in by local trawlers.

Highlights & What to See

• Horseshoe Bay – The sheltered main beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The adjacent rock pools are a hit with kids.
• Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf – Watch the fishing fleet come and go, then grab freshly shucked oysters or a seafood basket from the co-op. The wharf is also a prime spot for a sunset stroll.
• Blue Pool – A natural ocean-fed rock pool just south of town, ideal for a refreshing dip with views of the headland. It’s a local favourite and a great photo opportunity.
• Gulaga National Park – A short drive inland, this park protects the sacred Gulaga (Mount Dromedary) and offers walking trails through ancient rainforest. The mountain holds deep cultural significance for the Yuin people.
• Bermagui to Mystery Bay Coastal Walk – A stunning 8 km return trail that hugs the cliffs, passing secluded beaches and offering whale-watching opportunities from June to November.

Suggested Time to Spend

Bermagui is an ideal overnight stop or a two-day escape. Spend the first morning exploring the wharf and beach, then head to Blue Pool for a swim. In the afternoon, tackle a section of the coastal walk. On day two, venture into Gulaga National Park for a hike or visit the nearby town of Tilba Tilba. If you’re self-driving, it’s a perfect break between Sydney and Melbourne along the Princes Highway.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tilba Tilba – A charming heritage village with artisan shops, a famous cheese factory, and a pub that feels frozen in time.
• Narooma – 30 minutes north, home to Australia Rock (a natural rock formation resembling the continent) and the Montague Island Nature Reserve.
• Mystery Bay – A quiet, unpatrolled beach just south of Bermagui, perfect for a peaceful picnic and a swim.
• Bega – The heart of the Bega Valley, known for its cheese and dairy heritage; visit the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre.
• Eden – A historic whaling town turned whale-watching hub, about an hour south, with the Killer Whale Museum and stunning coastal lookouts.

Please check official sources for current details.