Seven Mile Beach
Stretching along the pristine coastline between Gerroa and Shoalhaven Heads, Seven Mile Beach is a spectacular sweep of golden sand backed by rolling dunes and the lush greenery of the Budderoo National Park. This unspoiled stretch of coast is a haven for surfers, swimmers, and nature lovers, offering a sense of space and tranquility that feels a world away from the nearby city. The beach is part of the Seven Mile Beach National Park, which protects important coastal habitats and provides a serene backdrop for a classic Australian beach day.
Highlights & What to See
- Surfing and swimming: The consistent waves attract surfers of all levels, while the patrolled area near Gerroa offers safe swimming during summer months.
- Coastal walks: Follow the path from Gerroa to Shoalhaven Heads for breathtaking ocean views, birdwatching, and the chance to spot whales during migration season (May–November).
- Seven Mile Beach National Park: Explore the park's walking trails, picnic spots, and the historic Headland Walking Track that leads to panoramic viewpoints.
- Fishing: Cast a line from the beach or the rocky headlands for a quintessential local experience.
- Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for kangaroos grazing near the dunes, and seabirds soaring overhead.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend a half-day to a full day at Seven Mile Beach. For a relaxed visit, arrive in the morning to enjoy a swim or surf session, then explore the national park trails and have a picnic lunch. If you're combining with nearby attractions, an afternoon here is enough to soak up the coastal atmosphere. For a more immersive experience, consider staying until sunset – the colours over the ocean are unforgettable.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Sea Cliff Bridge: A scenic coastal drive or walk on this iconic bridge offers dramatic ocean views and is only a short drive north.
- Nan Tien Temple: Australia's largest Buddhist temple, located in Wollongong, provides a serene cultural contrast to the beach.
- Kiama: Famous for its blowhole and charming seaside town atmosphere, about 20 minutes north.
- Berry: A historic village with boutique shopping, cafés, and the renowned Berry Donut Van, perfect for a stop on a road trip.
- Jervis Bay: Less than an hour south, with stunning white-sand beaches and marine park for dolphin watching and kayaking.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Sea Cliff Bridge — illawarrashowcase / CC BY 2.0
- Nan Tien Temple — . Adam ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Kiama — Maksym Kozlenko / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Gerroa — Poyt448 Peter Woodard / CC BY-SA 3.0