Bendalong

Bendalong is a sleepy coastal hamlet on the NSW South Coast, where the bush meets the beach and the pace of life slows to a gentle shuffle. This is the kind of place where you kick off your shoes, breathe in the salt air, and let the rhythm of the waves dictate your day. With its uncrowded surf breaks, tranquil lake, and proximity to the vast Conjola National Park, Bendalong offers a genuine escape for travellers seeking nature, solitude, and a taste of classic Australian beach culture.

Highlights & What to See

• Bendalong Beach – A sweeping, patrolled beach with excellent surf breaks for all levels. The southern end is popular with families, while further north you'll find longer rides for more experienced surfers.
• Conjola National Park – Just a short drive north, this park protects heathland, coastal forests, and stunning lake systems. Walk the Bendalong Point Walking Track for panoramic views over the ocean and Lake Conjola.
• Lake Conjola – A peaceful tidal lake perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Launch from the boat ramp near the bridge and explore the serene waterways lined with paperbarks.
• Bendalong Boat Harbour – A sheltered harbour where local fisherman bring in their catch. It's a great spot for a quiet picnic or to watch the boats come and go.
• Wasp Head – A dramatic headland at the southern end of Bendalong Beach, offering excellent rock-fishing and whale-watching vantage points during migration season (May–November).

Suggested Time to Spend

Bendalong is best enjoyed as a relaxed overnight stop or a two-day escape. If you're on a road trip along the South Coast, a single day allows time for a morning surf, a walk in Conjola National Park, and a lakeside lunch. For a deeper immersion, stay a night or two to explore the park's walking trails, fish the lake at dawn, and watch the sunset from the headland. The village has a general store and a couple of takeaways, so stock up on supplies if you plan to self-cater.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ulladulla – A lively coastal town 20 minutes north with a working harbour, seafood co-op, and the popular Ulladulla Markets on the second Saturday of the month.
• Milton – A charming historic village with boutique shops, galleries, and excellent cafés. Try the famous pies at the Milton Pie Shop.
• Lake Conjola – The lake itself is a destination for water sports and lakeside accommodation. Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the Lake Conjola Holiday Park.
• Murramarang National Park – A spectacular coastal park to the south, home to the iconic Pigeon House Mountain and the Pebbly Beach kangaroos. Great for day walks and camping.
• Jervis Bay – About an hour's drive south, this marine park boasts some of the whitest sand in the world at Hyams Beach, plus dolphin-watching cruises and the Booderee Botanic Gardens.

Please check official sources for current details.