Sydneysiders seem to be divided between North and South NSW. Most families either have a go-to holiday up or down the coast. For me, the North Coast is the place of my childhood summer holidays. In my adulthood I discovered the true beauty of South Coast NSW.
Top picks South Coast NSW
Jervis Bay
Famed for having the whitest sands in the world, Jervis Bay is worth the trip. During school holidays it can get crowded, very crowded. Book ahead. But on shoulder seasons, it’s quiet and peaceful in this neck of the woods. Huskisson Beach is the most well known (and frequented). Booderee National Park has a few fun walks to different beaches, and you’ll spot a lot of kangaroos and wallabies.
My personal favourite is little Greenfield Beach. Turquoise waters, soft white sand, and quiet even in peak season. Sunset here is magnificent.
Skydive Wollongong Beach
Wollongong is just south of Sydney. A university town, and at times industrial. One of the top draws is jumping out of a plane above Wollongong Beach (as pictured above). Great views and a rush of adrenaline.
Kangaroo Valley
Cosy, quaint and full of vintage stores. Kangaroo Valley is an idyllic stopping point on a drive south from Sydney. Sit by the fire and enjoy a handmade pie, rustle through vintage books, and explore national parks surrounding this little town.
Kiama Blowhole
Kiama, south of Wollongong, has one main claim to fame. The Blowhole. Park up and watch as water erupts out of a natural hole in the rock. Kids and adults will yell in delight together every time it blows. Kiama also has fresh seafood, a picturesque ocean pool and whale watching.
Driving down Sea Cliff Bridge
Sea Cliff Bridge is a winding road with some of the best views of the south coast. Situated between prime whale watching spots it’s a fun road trip. Take a break from driving and have a scenic lunch at the Scarborough Hotel, that sits right on the cliff edge.
Fitzroy Falls
Near Kangaroo Valley, Fitzroy Falls drops 80m into the valley below. It’s a short hike surrounded by Southern Highlands greenery. Best to see in rainier seasons, during drought the falls is more of a trickle.
Narooma Oyster Festival
Every year little Narooma gets busier for their Oyster Festival on the first weekend of May. Enjoy fresh produce by the clear blue waters of Narooma.
Fun detours – Australia’s Big Things
If you are nearby and want to tick off the big things in Australia, check these out.
- The Big Merino, Goulburn
- Big Funnel Web Spider, Jamberoo
- Big Potato, Robertson
