Narooma

Narooma is a rhapsody in blue, such are the colours of the water that embrace this beautiful town in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast. There is the blue of the beaches, the calm blue of nearby lakes, the deep blue of the sea surrounding Montague Island and the star of the show; the turquoise water of pristine Wagonga Inlet.

Things to do

The sparkling Wagonga Inlet seduces as soon as visitors drive over the bridge into town. It is incredibly photogenic, with pelicans, kayakers, an on water restaurant and the Mill Bay Boardwalk on the northern side, where you might see stingrays feeding. You can even take a cruise on the 115-year-old Wagonga Princess.

The Narooma coastline is dotted with gorgeous beaches. At Narooma Surf Beach, see the ancient rock formations of Glasshouse Rocks and Pillow Lava. At the southern end of Handkerchief Beach is a pretty picnic area. The Narooma to Dalmeny cycling route is a fun way to explore the magnificent shoreline. Pack the clubs or hire some and play a round at the scenic Narooma Golf Club, which is on the coast. 

Montague Island

The highlight of a stay in Narooma is a visit to the Montague Island Nature Reserve. Go on a tour to see or snorkel with the fur seals, and to see the historic lighthouse. Better still, stay overnight in historic lighthouse accommodation. The island is sacred to the Yuin Aboriginal people, who call it Barunguba. Between May and November, you are likely to spot humpback and southern right whales.

Eat and drink

Narooma is at the heart of the Oyster Coast and you can taste the local delicacies at many restaurants. Some of the top picks are The Quarterdeck, the Ocean Lounge and The View. Don’t miss the Narooma Oyster Festival, one of the town’s top events. On the shores of Corunna Lake is Tilba Valley Winery & Ale House, which has a cellar door, lunch menu and live music.

Getting there and where to stay

The drive from Sydney to Narooma takes five hours and from Canberra it’s three hours. You can also fly from Sydney to Moruya Airport and rent a car to make the 45min drive south. There are plenty of places to stay from hotels and serviced apartments to beach houses, historic cottages, holiday parks and campsites.