We lived for a good few years in Gerroa, just north of the Shoalhaven, so know and love this area and are still regular visitors. It will not disappoint if you have yet to visit. (Kevin Parker- Editor)
The Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, Australia, is renowned for its picturesque natural landscapes, beautiful beaches, national parks, and charming towns, making it a popular destination for tourists and a great place to live for locals! It is an easy drive from Sydney and a lovely weekend destination from Canberra. If you are taking the Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney, then the Shoalhaven is a terrific place to stay overnight, or longer, as a part of a long weekend.
The Shoalhaven region includes 50 towns and villages, bordered by the mountains, coastal plains and 100 magnificent beaches including 16 white sand beaches of Jervis Bay to explore. It boasts nine cellar doors with delicious foodie experiences, a hop, skip and jump from beaches and rugged mountains, so there is plenty to do.
The Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre in Nowra, regularly hosts excellent performance art including theatre and music, worth checking to see if it coincides with your visit.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the Shoalhaven region:
- Jervis Bay: Known for having some of the whitest sand beaches in the world, such as Hyams Beach. It’s also a great spot for dolphin and whale watching, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters.
- Booderee National Park: Located at the southern tip of Jervis Bay, this park offers stunning beaches, bushwalks, indigenous culture, and abundant wildlife. It’s a fantastic place for camping, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty.
- Kangaroo Valley: A charming village known for its historic bridge, lush rainforest, and scenic landscapes. Outdoor activities like kayaking on the Kangaroo River, hiking, and golf are popular here. The area is also home to several vineyards and artisanal food producers.
- Berry: A delightful town famous for its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Berry Markets, held monthly, are a great place to find local crafts, fresh produce, and gourmet food.
- Fitzroy Falls: Located in the Morton National Park, Fitzroy Falls offers spectacular waterfall views, walking tracks, and a visitor center detailing the area’s natural history.
- Huskisson: A bustling town on the shores of Jervis Bay, known for its vibrant food scene, boutique shopping, and as a departure point for dolphin and whale watching cruises.
- Shoalhaven Zoo and Adventure World: Located near Nowra, this zoo is home to a variety of native and exotic animals, and the adventure world offers thrilling activities like rock climbing and zip-lining.
- Seven Mile Beach: Stretching from Shoalhaven Heads eastward towards Gerroa, this is a magnificent beach ideal for surfing, kite surfing, and long beach walks.
- Shoalhaven River: Offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside picnics. There are several picturesque towns along the river worth exploring, such as Nowra and Greenwell Point.
- Culburra, Callala, and Currarong Beaches: These are just a few examples of the beautiful beaches in the region, perfect for a relaxed day out, swimming, and beach activities.
This list offers a glimpse into the variety of attractions in the Shoalhaven region, appealing to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to explore the unique towns and communities in this beautiful part of Australia.
Shoalhaven South Coast Website
