Shoalhaven

Stretching along the stunning South Coast of New South Wales, Shoalhaven is a sprawling region of dramatic coastline, lush hinterland, and historic towns. With its pristine beaches, world-class national parks, and a thriving food and wine scene, this is a place where you can surf in the morning, hike through rainforest by lunch, and sip cool-climate wines as the sun sets over the escarpment. It’s a perfect stop on a Sydney-to-Melbourne road trip or a standalone holiday destination.

Highlights & What to See

• Jervis Bay – Home to some of the whitest sands on Earth, Hyams Beach is a must. Kayak with dolphins in the crystal-clear waters or walk the White Sands Walk for stunning coastal views.
• Booderee National Park – A protected Aboriginal-owned park with rainforest, cliffs, and secluded beaches. The Botanic Gardens and Murrays Beach are unmissable.
• Kangaroo Valley – A bucolic hinterland escape with historic hamlets, the iconic Hampden Bridge, and excellent bushwalking along the Kangaroo River.
• Berry – A charming historic town known for its antique shops, artisan bakeries, and the famous Berry Donut Van. The surrounding dairy farms produce some of the region’s best cheeses.
• Shoalhaven River – Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Take a scenic cruise from Nowra to see the river’s mangrove-lined banks and birdlife.
• Culburra Beach – A quieter surf beach with a laid-back vibe, perfect for families and long walks.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience Shoalhaven’s diversity, allow at least 3–4 days. Spend one day exploring Jervis Bay and its beaches, another in Kangaroo Valley and Berry, and a third on the Shoalhaven River or in Booderee. If you’re driving the Grand Pacific Drive, two days can cover a highlight reel, but you’ll want more to soak up the relaxed coastal rhythm.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kiama – Famous for the Kiama Blowhole and scenic coastal walks, just 30 minutes north.
• Batemans Bay – The gateway to the Eurobodalla Coast, known for oysters and Clyde River cruises, about an hour south.
• Royal National Park – Australia’s oldest national park, with dramatic cliffs and bushwalking, 90 minutes north near Sydney.
• Southern Highlands – Cool-climate gardens, antique shopping, and waterfalls in Bowral and Mittagong, an hour inland.
• Ulladulla – A classic South Coast fishing town with a harbour and good surf, 30 minutes south of Jervis Bay.

Please check official sources for current details.