Shoalhaven Coast

Stretching south from Wollongong to the Victorian border, the Shoalhaven Coast is a blissful ribbon of wild beaches, national parks, and laid-back seaside towns. This is where the New South Wales coast gets untamed — think empty surf breaks, oyster farms, and bushwalking trails that lead to dramatic sea cliffs. It’s an essential detour for anyone self-driving from Sydney to Melbourne, offering a slower, more authentic taste of coastal Australia.

Highlights & What to See

• Jervis Bay — home to some of the whitest sand on earth (Hyams Beach) and crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and spotting dolphins.
• Kangaroo Valley — a bucolic hinterland of rolling green hills, historic hamlets, and the iconic Hampden Bridge. Great for cycling and pub lunches.
• Booderee National Park — Aboriginal-owned park with stunning coastal walks, rockpools, and the chance to see sea eagles and wallabies.
• Shoalhaven River — paddle or cruise this broad waterway, lined with mangroves and oyster leases. Visit the historic village of Berry for antiques and cafés.
• Sea Cliff Bridge — a dramatic ocean-view drive (or walk) just north of the region, hugging the escarpment.
• Nan Tien Temple — Australia’s largest Buddhist temple, in Wollongong, offers serene gardens and a vegetarian teahouse.
• Mollymook & Ulladulla — classic surf towns with great fish-and-chips, boat harbours, and whale-watching in season.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least 3–5 days to properly explore the Shoalhaven Coast. Spend two days in the Jervis Bay area (Hyams Beach, Huskisson), one day exploring Kangaroo Valley and Berry, and another two days working south via Mollymook and Booderee National Park. If you’re on a tighter schedule, a two-day dash from Sydney can hit Jervis Bay and a few lookouts, but you’ll miss the hinterland charm.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wollongong — the city gateway with its own beaches, lighthouse, and the Sea Cliff Bridge.
• Kiama — known for the Kiama Blowhole and pretty coastal walk to Bombo Headland.
• Southern Highlands — a short drive inland to towns like Bowral and Robertson for cool-climate gardens and antique shopping.
• Batemans Bay — further south, the start of the Eurobodalla Coast with more pristine beaches and Clyde River oysters.
• Morton National Park — dramatic sandstone cliffs and waterfalls, including the Fitzroy Falls, a short drive from Kangaroo Valley.

Please check official sources for current details.