Photo: Pascal Vuylsteker from Paris, France - Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0
Murramarang National Park is a coastal gem on the South Coast of New South Wales, where ancient forests meet pristine beaches and rocky headlands. This park offers a wild, unspoiled landscape that feels a world away from the busy cities, with superb opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and simply soaking in the raw beauty of the Australian coastline. The park is named after the Murramarang Aboriginal people, and the area is rich in Indigenous heritage.
Highlights & What to See
- Pebbly Beach: Famous for its resident eastern grey kangaroos that lounge on the sand – a surreal and iconic photo op. The beach is also great for swimming and surfing.
- Durras Mountain Walking Track: A challenging 8 km return hike that rewards with panoramic views from the summit over the forest, lake, and ocean.
- Myrtle Beach to Depot Beach Walk: An easy coastal walk (4 km one way) through spotted gum forest, with chances to see sea eagles and dolphins offshore.
- Snapper Point Lookout: A short walk to a dramatic headland with sweeping views of the coastline – perfect for whale watching (May–November) and sunset photography.
- Richmond Beach: A secluded, less-visited stretch of sand accessible via a short trail, ideal for a peaceful picnic or a quiet swim.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for at least a full day to experience the park’s highlights. If you're keen on hiking, two days allows you to tackle the Durras Mountain track and explore multiple beaches. The park is easily combined with a stop in the nearby town of Batemans Bay or as part of a self-drive itinerary along the South Coast. Overnight stays are possible at the Depot Beach campground (book ahead in peak season) or in holiday rentals in the surrounding villages.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Batemans Bay: The gateway town to the park, with excellent seafood restaurants, oyster farms, and the Clyde River estuary for kayaking and fishing.
- Mogo Zoo: A small, ethical zoo near Batemans Bay with a strong conservation focus – home to lions, rhinos, and lemurs.
- Eurobodalla National Park: Adjacent to the south, with more coastal walks, lagoons, and birdwatching at Congo Point.
- Broulee Island Nature Reserve: A short drive south, offering a scenic coastal walk around the island with stunning rock formations and a historic lighthouse.
- Milton and Ulladulla: Charming historic towns with galleries, cafes, and access to the dramatic cliffs and beaches of the Budawang Coast.
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
- Batemans Bay — MrMosely / CC0
- Mogo Zoo — JJ Harrison ( https://www.jjharrison.com.au/ ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Eurobodalla National Park — Pete from NSW Far South Coast, Australia / CC BY 2.0
- Broulee Island Nature Reserve — AYArktos / Public domain
- Milton and Ulladulla — Nick-D / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Depot Beach Campground — Pascal Vuylsteker from Paris, France - Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0