Must do
Fast facts
- Beaches and bays backed by forested wilderness
- Famous for its pristine beaches, national parks and wildlife
- Three hours’ drive south of Sydney
Why go there
The Shoalhaven region is a majestic stretch of coast endowed with beaches, bays, interesting country towns and natural wonders. Here the beaches are famed for their white sands and wildlife, the towns for their cafés and old pubs, and the crystal clear waters for their fish, dolphins and migrating whales.
Go bushwalking in one of the hinterland’s national parks, drive through picturesque Kangaroo Valley or stop for great coffee and a browse in one of the Shoalhaven’s charming villages.
Things to do
- Admire the whitest sands in the world at Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay.
- Go sailing and fishing in the safe, protected waters of St Georges Basin.
- Dine out on fresh oysters, tuna, kingfish and mussels at one of the fine local restaurants.
- Browse in Milton’s boutiques, art and craft galleries and antique shops.
- Go bushwalking along one of the 20 trails in Morton National Park.
- Explore the Kangaroo Valley River in a canoe.
Don’t miss
- Spotting dolphins on a cruise or in a sea kayak at Jervis Bay.
- Lady Denman, a restored Sydney harbour ferry, at The Lady Denman Maritime Museum in Huskisson.
- The convict-built remnants of Coolangatta Village, near Berry.
- Bundanon, the artist Arthur Boyd’s house and studio, open to the public on Sundays.
Events
- Blessing of the Fleet, Ulladulla, on Easter Sunday.
- See Change Arts Festival, Jervis Bay, in June.
- Milton Scarecrow Festival, Milton, in June.
- Berry Gardens Festival, Berry, in October.
- Fleet Air Arm Museum Flight Air Show, outside Nowra, in October.