Photo: Grahamec / CC BY-SA 3.0
Culburra Beach is a laid-back coastal gem on the NSW South Coast, offering a classic beachside escape with a friendly community vibe. Known for its long stretch of golden sand and consistent surf breaks, it's a favorite among families and surfers alike. The town itself is unpretentious, with a handful of cafes and shops, but the real draw is the stunning natural environment, including the nearby Curleys Bay and the pristine waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park.
Highlights & What to See
- Culburra Beach itself – a long, wide beach perfect for swimming, surfing, and long walks. The southern end is patrolled in summer.
- Curleys Bay – a calm, sheltered inlet ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and safe swimming for kids.
- Penguin Head – a scenic lookout offering panoramic views of the coastline and, in season, glimpses of little penguins returning at dusk.
- Jervis Bay Marine Park – explore the rich marine life through snorkeling, diving, or a boat tour. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals.
- Booderee National Park – just south, this park offers beautiful bushwalks, secluded beaches like Murrays Beach, and cultural sites of the Wreck Bay Aboriginal community.
Suggested Time to Spend
Culburra Beach is perfect for a relaxed weekend getaway, but you can also enjoy a day trip from Sydney (about 2.5 hours drive). For a full experience, plan two to three days: spend the first day exploring the beach and Curleys Bay, the second day hiking in Booderee National Park, and the third day kayaking or taking a dolphin cruise in Jervis Bay. Pace yourself – this is a place to unwind, not rush.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Huskisson – a vibrant seaside village on Jervis Bay, with excellent cafes, restaurants, and dolphin-watching cruises.
- Jervis Bay Village – a quiet spot within Booderee National Park, with access to stunning beaches like Hyams Beach (famous for its white sand).
- Nowra – the regional hub, offering shopping, dining, and the Shoalhaven Zoo.
- Bendalong – a smaller coastal town south of Culburra, known for its surf beach and tranquil atmosphere.
- Pebbly Beach – a beautiful, dog-friendly beach within Murramarang National Park, about an hour south.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Huskisson — Nick-D / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Jervis Bay — Charliekay / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Booderee National Park — Adrian Setterfield / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Nowra — Bidgee / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Bendalong — Grahamec / CC BY-SA 4.0