THE SOUTH COAST
New South Wales’ South Coast is a spectacular stretch of pristine beaches, lush national parks, and charming seaside towns. It’s a coastal paradise, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed Australian escape.
This region offers a breathtaking contrast of rugged cliffs meeting sapphire waters, peaceful hinterlands, and a rich maritime history to explore. It is a stunning, easy-going retreat from the city.
Most Popular Attractions
Coastal Landmarks & Beaches:
Hyams Beach: World-renowned for its dazzlingly white silica sand, often cited in the Guinness Book of World Records. Located in Jervis Bay.
Kiama Blowhole: A dramatic natural rock formation where the ocean water is forced through a small opening, creating a spectacular spout.
Pebbly Beach: Famous for its resident population of friendly kangaroos that often sunbathe right on the sand.
Wattamolla Beach (Royal National Park): A beautiful spot featuring a lagoon, waterfall, and beach, perfect for swimming and picnics.
Gerringong’s Seven Mile Beach: A long, beautiful stretch of coast, popular for surfing, kite-surfing, and long walks.
Figure Eight Pools (Royal National Park): Natural rock pools shaped like a figure eight, accessible only at low tide and calm conditions.
Horsehead Rock (Bermagui): An ancient rock formation shaped distinctly like a horse’s head, best photographed at sunrise.
Narooma Bar: A waterway famous for its dramatic ocean bar and views of the Australia Rock formation.
Mollymook Beach: A popular south coast beach, excellent for swimming and home to a famous golf course.
Depot Beach (Murramarang National Park): A secluded beach known for its clear waters and surrounding spotted gum forests.
National Parks & Natural Sites:
Royal National Park: The world’s second-oldest national park, offering extensive hiking trails, beaches, and scenic lookouts.
Jervis Bay Marine Park: A sanctuary known for its crystal-clear waters, resident bottlenose dolphins, and seasonal whale migration.
Booderee National Park: Managed by the traditional owners, the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, featuring spectacular coastline and wildlife.
Mimosa Rocks National Park: A coastal park featuring striking rock formations, hidden coves, and excellent birdwatching.
Eurobodalla Botanic Garden (Batemans Bay): Showcasing Australian native plants from the region across 420 hectares.
Ben Boyd National Park: Located in the far south, featuring dramatic coastal heathlands and historic whaling ruins.
The Pinnacles (Ben Boyd National Park): Striking, multicolored sandstone cliffs that offer incredible photo opportunities.
Historic Towns & Culture:
Historic Town of Berry: A charming village famous for its boutique shops, historic architecture, and local produce markets.
Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba: Beautifully preserved heritage villages, known for their picturesque setting and local cheese production.
Geringong’s Crooked River Winery: A popular cellar door and restaurant offering wine tasting with views of the rolling hills.
Pilot Station Museum (Kiama): Local museum detailing the history of the Kiama harbour, the famous blowhole, and cedar cutting.
Mogo Wildlife Park: A private zoo near Batemans Bay, home to over 200 animals, including endangered species.
Batemans Bay: Known as the “oyster coast,” famous for its premium Sydney rock and Pacific oysters.
Eden Killer Whale Museum: Dedicated to the town’s unique history of killer whales aiding Aboriginal people and European whalers.
Activities & Experiences
Go Whale Watching in Jervis Bay: From May to November, take a boat tour to witness the spectacular migration of Humpback and Southern Right Whales, which often come close to the shore.
Swim with Seals at Montague Island (Narooma): Join a guided tour to snorkel or dive with a resident colony of playful Australian and New Zealand Fur Seals in the clear waters off Montague Island (Baranguba).
Explore the Sea Cliff Bridge (Grand Pacific Drive): Drive or cycle along the iconic cantilevered bridge that hugs the coastline north of Wollongong, offering dramatic ocean views.
Hike the Coasts and Peaks of Royal National Park: Walk a section of the famous Coast Track or hike up to Bald Hill in Stanwell Park for spectacular hang-gliding views, marking the start of the South Coast.
Visit the Kiama Blowhole: Witness one of the largest blowholes in the world, where seawater is powerfully forced through a rock cavity, often soaring to great heights.
Go Oyster Shucking and Tasting (Pambula/Clyde River): Visit a working oyster farm, like those in the Pambula or Batemans Bay regions, for an educational tour and a tasting of fresh, local Sydney Rock and Pacific Oysters.
Take a Surf Lesson in Gerroa or Mollymook: Learn to ride a wave at a classic South Coast surf beach, ideal for beginners due to their gentle, consistent swells.
Wander through the Rainforest at Minnamurra Falls: Take a scenic walk through the lush, subtropical rainforest of Budderoo National Park, leading to a beautiful waterfall.
Explore the Booderee National Park (Jervis Bay): Discover stunning white-sand beaches like Hyams Beach, learn about Indigenous culture at the Booderee Botanic Gardens, and enjoy coastal walking trails.
Drive the Poachers Way Food & Wine Trail: Explore the Southern Highlands hinterland to sample local cool-climate wines, boutique cheeses, and artisan produce.
Visit the Fleet Air Arm Museum (Nowra): Discover a large collection of historic naval aircraft, interactive exhibits, and learn about the history of Australian naval aviation.
Discover Coastal Caves in Eurobodalla: Explore the fascinating sea caves and rock formations along the coastline, such as those near Bawley Point or Broulee.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential: The South Coast is a linear region spanning hundreds of kilometers, and a car is the most practical and efficient way to explore its hidden beaches, national parks, and scattered towns. Public transport is limited mainly to local bus services within the major towns.
Grand Pacific Drive: This famous touring route begins south of Sydney and runs down to Kiama, passing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. It’s a highly recommended way to start your South Coast adventure.
Toll Roads: Be aware that travel near Sydney may involve electronic toll roads. Ensure your rental car has a valid e-Tag or that you organize a temporary visitor pass, or you may incur fines.
Intercity Trains: The NSW TrainLink service connects Sydney to major northern towns like Wollongong and Kiama. You can also take the train as far south as Bomaderry (Nowra), but a car is still necessary to explore the attractions south of that point.
Driving Safely: Look out for wildlife, especially at dusk and dawn. Kangaroos and Wombats are frequently seen on rural roads and pose a collision risk. Be vigilant and drive slowly in signposted areas.
Beach Safety and Patrols: Always swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Beaches are typically patrolled in the summer months (September to April). Look for signage regarding currents, rips, and marine life before entering the water.
Sun Protection is Critical: The Australian sun is intense, even on cloudy days. Always wear high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing. Stay hydrated, especially during the summer.
The “Coastie” Vibe: The South Coast is generally more relaxed and slower-paced than Sydney. Expect a laid-back, outdoors-focused atmosphere. Shops and restaurants in smaller towns may have shorter opening hours, especially outside of peak summer season.
Respect for Indigenous Culture: The South Coast is the traditional land of the Yuin, Dharawal, and various other Aboriginal Nations. Look for opportunities to engage with local Indigenous culture, such as guided tours at Booderee National Park or cultural centers. Always be respectful when visiting significant sites.
Dining Times: Dinner often starts around 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. If you arrive at a restaurant much later, you may find the kitchen is close to shutting down, particularly in smaller towns.
Hidden Gems
Pebbly Beach (Murramarang National Park): Famous for its resident kangaroos that often come right down to the beach, offering a fantastic photo opportunity (but remember to keep a respectful distance).
Cambewarra Mountain Lookout (Nowra): Provides spectacular panoramic views of the Shoalhaven region, the coast, and the hinterland without a strenuous hike.
Tathra Wharf: This historic, beautiful wooden wharf is a great spot for fishing, and sometimes you can see seals or migrating whales from the deck. The adjacent building houses a great local museum.
The Spires (Castle Hill, Budawang National Park): A challenging but rewarding hike to a distinctive, rocky outcrop that offers 360-degree views over the vast national park.
Top Restaurants
Bangalay Dining [$55-$85] – Located in Shoalhaven Heads, this acclaimed restaurant focuses on modern Australian cuisine with a unique emphasis on native Australian ingredients, set in a beautiful, relaxed resort atmosphere.
The Gunyah at Paperbark Camp [$70-$100 (Set Menu)] – A unique, fine-dining experience in Woollamia (Jervis Bay area), offering a set menu focused on seasonal, local ingredients in a beautiful, open-sided canvas structure.
The River Moruya [$40-$70] – Set right on the Moruya River, this upmarket establishment focuses on regional produce, fresh seafood, and modern Australian techniques, offering both a la carte and a tasting menu.
Cupitt’s Estate Restaurant [$50-$80] – Part of a winery, brewery, and fromagerie in Ulladulla, this restaurant offers a true farm-to-table experience with stunning views over the vines and a focus on estate-grown and local produce.
Valentina [$40-$75] – A refined dining experience in Merimbula, offering elegant Modern Australian cuisine with a heavy focus on the region’s incredible seafood and local ingredients, overlooking the water.
Il Passaggio [$35-$60] – Located on the Bermagui Fisherman’s Wharf, this restaurant offers delicious modern Italian food with a casual feel, placing a big emphasis on using the fresh local seafood straight from the boats.
The Sandbar [$40-$75] – A fine-dining spot in Batemans Bay that creatively blends French techniques with Japanese inspiration, celebrating the finest seasonal produce from the South Coast.
Gwylo [$45-$70] – Found in Mollymook, this restaurant offers an inventive menu that blends bold Asian flavours with modern Australian cooking and excellent local ingredients in a sleek setting.
The Wharf Restaurant and Merimbula Aquarium [$30-$55] – Offering a classic waterfront dining experience in Merimbula with panoramic ocean views and a menu centered on fresh, local seafood.
Mimosa Wines Restaurant [$50-$80] – Located on an estate near Bermagui, enjoy modern Australian dishes with stunning vineyard views, featuring estate-made wine, beer, and cheese.
Kiki Deli [$25-$45] – A locally loved spot in Narooma offering creative modern Australian dishes for breakfast and lunch, focused on fresh, quality ingredients in a charming setting.
Harvest Bar [$30-$50] – A trendy, community-focused spot in Milton known for its vibrant, globally inspired menu, great cocktails, and lively atmosphere.
Lagom Bakery and Cafe [$20-$35] – While primarily a bakery in Burrill Lake, their cafe offers fantastic, simple breakfast and lunch fare with a focus on sourdough, high-quality ingredients, and excellent coffee.
The Milton Hotel [$30-$50] – A thoughtfully restored historic pub in Milton offering great indoor-outdoor dining with a menu of polished pub classics and Modern Australian dishes utilizing local produce.
The Quarterdeck [$30-$55] – A fun, waterfront tiki bar and eatery in Narooma known for its fresh local oysters, seafood grill, tapas, and vibrant atmosphere right on the Wagonga Inlet.
The Fish Shop [$15-$30] – Located in Burrill Lake, this is arguably one of the South Coast’s best spots for classic, fresh, and perfectly cooked fish and chips and local oysters.
Wheelers Seafood Restaurant [$35-$65] – A well-known institution in Pambula, offering fresh local seafood and oysters with beautiful lake views, featuring a daily alfresco oyster bar.
JJ’s at the Marina [$30-$50] – Right on the water in Batemans Bay, this relaxed spot offers fresh seafood, including chowder, mussels, and locally sourced oysters, with spectacular views.
Rick Stein at Bannisters (Pool Bar) [$25-$45] – While the main restaurant is high-end, the Pool Bar at Bannisters in Mollymook offers a more casual, yet still high-quality, selection of fresh seafood and light fare with the same incredible ocean views.
The Oyster Farmers Daughter [$20-$40] – Located right on the water in Narooma, this spot offers fresh Clyde River oysters and other seafood, with stunning views in a casual setting.
Merimbula Gourmet Oysters [$15-$30] – A no-frills, farm gate experience in Merimbula where you can buy incredibly fresh local oysters directly from the farm on the bay.
Pearly Oyster Bar and Farm [$20-$40] – Offers the freshest Clyde River oysters, farmed and served with care right on the banks of the river near Batemans Bay.
Ccooks@Corrigans [$35-$60] – Located in Batemans Bay, this restaurant is highly recommended for its delicious array of meals, including a popular seafood tower for two, open for breakfast and dinner.
Sandbar Restaurant & Bar [$35-$55] – Located near Huskisson Beach, this spot offers a relaxed setting with a focus on fresh, regional produce, including local seafood and modern Australian cuisine.
Tathra Hotel [$25-$45] – This historic coastal pub in Tathra offers a menu of pub favourites and local dishes, with spectacular views and a focus on local produce and craft beer.
Pilgrims Vegetarian Cafe [$15-$30] – A beloved, long-standing local institution in Milton and Huskisson offering hearty, wholesome, and delicious vegetarian food, famous for its ‘Bliss Burger’ and pancakes.
Milkwood Bakery [$15-$25] – Located in Berry, this bakery is famous for its artisanal sourdough bread, incredible pastries, pies, and simple, delicious breakfast and lunch savouries.
Flour Water Salt [$15-$25] – A decadent bakery and cafe in Milton known for its rustic bread, viennoiserie, and simple, high-quality breakfast and lunch options.
5 Little Pigs [$15-$25] – A small, family-run venue on the main street of Huskisson, highly regarded as a great spot for breakfast, brunch, and lunch with a focus on fresh, simple food.
The Hub Espresso Bar and Deli [$15-$25] – A cozy spot in Narooma for quality coffee, gourmet deli items, and light meals, popular with locals for a casual catch-up.
Gundary Bakers [$10-$20] – Found in Moruya, this cute little bakery-cafe is a source of excellent freshly baked pies, bread, and cakes, supplied by the nearby Bodalla Bakery.
Alfresco Cafe Moruya [$15-$25] – A warm, character-filled cafe in Moruya, popular with locals for its quality coffee, friendly service, and delicious light meals.
Frank’s Espresso Bar [$10-$20] – A popular coffee spot in South Nowra and other locations, known for its strong, quality coffee and simple, tasty cafe fare.
Zest Cafe & Catering [$15-$25] – A lively and welcoming café in Nowra where fresh flavours and friendly service come together for breakfast and lunch.
Honorbread [$10-$20] – A small, dedicated artisan bakery in Bermagui, known for its incredible sourdough bread and simple, authentic pastries and coffee.
The Dromedary Hotel [$25-$45] – A charming and historic country pub in Central Tilba, known for its great atmosphere, delicious pub grub, and polished menu featuring local favourites.
Mr Ng’s Cantonese Restaurant [$20-$40] – A beloved local gem in Nowra, offering authentic and traditional Cantonese cuisine with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Kohlis Waterfront Indian Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located on the water in Batemans Bay, this award-winning restaurant is known for its fine, traditional Indian cuisine and spectacular views.
Ivy Italian [$30-$50] – A warm, contemporary space in Nowra offering authentic Italian cuisine, including freshly made pizzas and pastas.
Food Mantra By Wildfire [$25-$45] – Tucked away in Narooma, this restaurant offers a soulful and inviting atmosphere with a menu featuring traditional Nepalese and Indian dishes.
Sam’s Pizza [$20-$35] – Located in Batemans Bay, this spot is highly rated for its authentic Italian taste experience, offering freshly made pizzas and pastas.
Broulee Brewhouse [$25-$45] – A brewery and community hub by the seaside in Broulee, offering a rotating menu of great pub food to pair with their locally brewed beers.
Tathra Oysters Farm Gate [Pricing Varies] – Not a restaurant, but a direct-to-consumer farm gate in Tathra offering some of the world’s most awarded, freshest oysters. A must-visit for a true local experience.
Tilba Valley Winery and Alehouse [$25-$45] – A family-run winery and brewery near Tilba, offering a casual menu of food to go with their wines and ales, often featuring live music.
Old Salt Distillery [$40-$60] – A hidden gem in Shoalhaven, offering a unique dining experience with a focus on a woodfire grill and a fine-dining menu featuring local spirits and edible courtyard produce.
The Growers [$30-$50] – A popular, spacious establishment in Worrigee (near Nowra) known for its vibrant atmosphere, creative cocktails, and a menu of modern dishes and pub favourites.
The Waterfront Tavern [$30-$50] – Located at Shell Cove, this tavern offers a relaxing spot over the water to linger over a seafood platter, beef ragu, or lamb shanks.
The Berry Tea Shop [$15-$25] – Located in Berry, this charming spot offers a delightful selection of teas, scones, and light lunch fare in a quintessential country town setting.
Coolangatta Estate Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located at a historic estate in Shoalhaven Heads, the restaurant offers modern Australian dining using fresh, seasonal, local produce.
Malt Man Brewing [$20-$40] – Found in Batemans Bay, this spot offers a relaxed, dog-friendly garden setting with great pizzas, salads, and snacks to pair with their craft beers.
Stonegrill [$35-$60] – Located in the heart of Kiama, this restaurant offers a unique experience where you cook your own meat or seafood on a searing hot volcanic stone.
The Blue Swimmer at Gerroa [$40-$70] – A highly-regarded spot in Gerroa offering a seasonal menu focused on fresh local ingredients in a charming, coastal cottage setting.
The General Cafe [$15-$25] – A popular, quirky cafe in Mogo offering a great spot for coffee, breakfast, and lunch with a focus on simple, fresh food.
Wild Ryes Baking Co. [$15-$25] – A well-loved bakery and cafe in Pambula and Eden, known for its quality sourdough bread, baked goods, and casual breakfast and lunch menu.
One Tree Inn [$25-$45] – A classic, fair-dinkum country pub in Tuross Head offering top-quality pub grub and a great, local atmosphere.
Pickled Octopus Thai [$25-$45] – A popular spot in Tuross Head offering spectacular waterfront dining and a menu featuring freshly caught fish, seafood, and authentic Thai dishes.
Whalebone Wharf Restaurant [$50-$80] – A classic, upscale seafood restaurant in Port Stephens, known for its extensive fresh seafood menu and stunning views over the water.
The Growers [$30-$50] – A vibrant venue in Worrigee known for its modern Australian menu, woodfired pizzas, and lively atmosphere, popular with locals for a family meal or gathering.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bannisters Pavilion Rooftop Bar (Mollymook): Located at the luxurious Bannisters Pavilion, this chic rooftop bar offers a suspended pool and sunbeds, providing a glamorous spot in Mollymook for sipping cocktails, spritzes, and soaking up the sun with stylish views.
The Rutledge Bar and Eats (Berry): Berry’s newest bar and eatery, housed in a beautifully restored historic building on Queen Street. It features a great cocktail menu, a focus on local produce, and often hosts live acoustic music.
Il Locale (Berry): This quality coffee and dining spot in Berry also features a beautiful bar, offering cocktails, beers on tap, and a sunny courtyard, perfect for an evening drink.
Harvest Bar (Milton): An all-round venue in Milton known for great vibes, awesome cocktails, and craft beers, served alongside a tapas-style menu. It’s a fantastic spot for a girls’ night or a relaxed date.
Dangerous Ales (Milton): While a craft brewery in Milton, their taproom also serves excellent local beverages and has a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer high-quality brews and a more casual, social setting.
Little Snapper (Culburra Beach): A lovely local haunt in Culburra Beach that acts as a relaxed, high-quality small bar, offering classic cocktails, a great selection of craft beers, and an extensive wine list featuring local drops.
The Quarters (Huskisson): A popular cocktail and wine bar in the heart of Huskisson, making it a lively central meeting spot for a drink before or after dinner in the Jervis Bay area.
Wild Ginger (Huskisson): This venue in Huskisson offers a vibrant bar scene with mean cocktails, particularly those with an Asian twist, complementing their South East Asian-inspired menu.
Bangalay Dining and Villas (Shoalhaven Heads): A luxury venue offering delicious cocktails, often inspired by native ingredients, providing a refined, high-end sundowner experience near Shoalhaven Heads.
The Great Southern Hotel Berry (Berry): A local pub in the heart of Berry that, while traditional, offers great food, a friendly atmosphere, and all the classic wine, beer, and spirits options expected for a social country night out.
Shoalhaven Heads Hotel Motel (Shoalhaven Heads): A traditional pub in scenic Shoalhaven Heads, offering a relaxed environment for drinks, often featuring specials and popular with locals.
The Berry Hotel (Berry): An historic pub in the heart of Berry, popular with locals and visitors for its country ambience and offering a full bar selection for an easy night out.
Cupitt’s Estate (Ulladulla): A winery and brewery near Ulladulla that offers more than just wine. The setting is spectacular, making it a beautiful spot for an afternoon or early evening drink with stunning views.
The Inlet at Mollymook (Mollymook): Located near Mollymook Beach, this spot is ideal for a post-beach drink, offering a relaxed, coastal vibe with a full bar.
The Social Jervis Bay (Huskisson): A dedicated late-night spot in the Jervis Bay area, providing a lively atmosphere, often with DJs and a larger space for dancing than the region’s small bars.
Dicey Riley’s Hotel (Wollongong – Closest major city venue/club): While outside the immediate South Coast/Shoalhaven area, Wollongong serves as the closest major city with traditional club options. Dicey Riley’s is known for its free entry and often hosts live music and late-night socialising.
The Servo Food Truck Bar (Port Kembla – Near Wollongong): A unique, eclectic late-night venue known for its focus on live music, alternative gigs, and a laid-back, grungy atmosphere, offering a dance floor and late operating hours.
The Illawarra Hotel (Wollongong – Closest major city pub/club): A popular, central Wollongong pub with a late-night focus, often featuring DJs and a great beer garden, evolving into a lively spot for dancing and socialising on weekends.
La Playa Huskisson (Huskisson): While a restaurant, it often operates with a lively bar, particularly on weekends, offering a later-night gathering spot with cocktails and music near the water in Huskisson.
Moruya Waterfront Hotel Motel (Moruya): A classic pub on the water that transforms into a busy late-night venue on weekends, offering music, a pool table, and a lively atmosphere in the Eurobodalla area.
The Marlin Hotel (Ulladulla): A central pub in Ulladulla known for its nightlife, offering a dedicated space for music, DJs, and dancing late into the night, popular with both locals and visitors.
The Bermagui Beach Hotel (Bermagui): Located right on the beach in the Sapphire Coast area, this hotel/pub is a key late-night spot in the town, often hosting live music and providing a vibrant setting for a long night out.
Club Sapphire Merimbula (Merimbula): A large, modern RSL/Services club in Merimbula, often hosting major touring acts, tribute shows, and providing a large bar/lounge area that operates as a late-night venue for entertainment and dancing.
The Old Bank Bar (Nowra): A dedicated bar in Nowra, which often hosts late-night events, live music, and offers a wider array of spirits and cocktails than traditional pubs, functioning as a smaller, boutique club experience.
Jervis Bay Brewing Co. (Huskisson): While a brewery, their taproom often extends its hours and has a very social, high-energy atmosphere with food trucks and events, creating a fun, late-night gathering spot.
Sussex Inlet Tavern (Sussex Inlet): A classic local pub that serves as the main late-night hub in Sussex Inlet, offering a welcoming atmosphere, pool tables, and music for a local dance and drink.
Mollymook Golf Club (Mollymook): Provides a large venue space that frequently hosts functions, bands, and entertainment on weekends, serving as one of the area’s larger late-night spots for social gathering and dancing.
The Huskisson Hotel (Huskisson): A pub right on Jervis Bay that is a social heart of the town. On weekends, it’s known for its lively atmosphere, often with music and late hours, making it a default late-night spot.