Narooma

The coastal town of Narooma in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast has it all: the sparkling Wagonga Inlet, beautiful beaches, swimming, snorkelling and diving. It’s also the gateway to Montague Island, a spectacular wildlife wonderland, home to a colony of fur seals and more than 90 bird species.

A range of tours will take you to the Montague Island Nature Reserve for a day trip, or you can stay 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.

The Narooma coastline is dotted with gorgeous beaches. At Narooma Surf Beach, see the splendid 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.

Hire a kayak from Narooma Marina and explore Wagonga Inlet. On the northern side of the inlet is the scenic Mill Bay boardwalk, where stingrays feed. Soak up the town’s breathtaking scenery while you play a round at Narooma Golf Club, where the course overlooks the ocean. Or cast a line on a fishing charter.

Narooma is at the heart of the Oyster Coast and you can taste the local delicacies at many restaurants. Don’t miss the Narooma Oyster Festival in May, 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.

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 42km drive south. There are plenty of places to stay from hotels and serviced apartments to beach houses, holiday parks and campsites.