South Coast

• Summer

  Dec—Feb

  30°C Avg. High

  25°C Avg. Low

• Winter

  Jun—Aug

  20°C Avg. High

  15°C Avg. Low

Wollongong

The ‘Gong’ will do nothing if not surprise you. Framed by the Pacific to the east and a lush escarpment to the west, the region is naturally blessed – but it’s equally blessed by fabulous human-made attractions, like the biggest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, kilometres of coastal cycling tracks, inviting eateries and bars, the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge and sky-high adventure experiences.

Shellharbour

You might not be familiar with this small coastal enclave just south of Wollongong, but there’s plenty about Shellharbour that’s worthy of attention. Like the excellent snorkelling and diving in a magical aquatic reserve, iconic surf breaks like the famed Mystics, a tranquil lake and river where you can test your SUP or kayaking skills, or a batch of activities that will get your adrenaline flowing. Relax on white sand beaches all along the stunning coastline. Shellharbour is home to one of Australia’s few National Surfing Reserves at Killalea. Catch a wave at two iconic breaks, The Farm at Killalea Beach and Mystics at Minnamurra Beach.

Kiama

People flock to Kiama to witness the force of nature that is the town’s famed blowhole, but the region as a whole is equally awe-inspiring. Get lost in the silent beauty of rainforest, watch wondrous waterfalls, surf the region’s great breaks, amble stunning coastal walks, soar above the tree-tops, mosey through a market and get to know the locals at gorgeous spots like Gerringong and Jamberoo. The pretty town of Kiama is the largest in the area. It’s flanked by beaches and ocean pools, and the bustling main street is lined with cafes and shops. Further down the coast is the village of Gerringong, perched on a hilltop overlooking two headlands. The tiny enclave of Gerroa is a favourite of surfers. Inland, Jamberoo is the place for lush rainforest and heart-pumping adventures.

Shoalhaven & Jervis Bay

There’s an awful lot to love about the Shoalhaven – like the 100 beaches, 49 towns and villages, nine cellar doors and the countless marine creatures (dolphins, seals, visiting whales) that call the region’s pure waters home. Whether you’re a surfer, a bushwalker, a kayaker, a rock climber, or just an inveterate foodie/wine lover, you’re sure to find your own special pocket in this gorgeous region.

Batemans Bay & Eurobodalla

The Eurobodalla region – which stretches from South Durras to Tilba Tilba in the south – is a lush playground of ocean, river, forest and farmland. Dive into ocean-washed towns like Batemans Bay, Broulee, Narooma, Moruya and Central Tilba, pick up some of NSW’s best seafood and artisanal produce direct from makers, follow ancient Aboriginal songlines to feel a deep connection to the land or just find a stretch of beach of your very own.

Merimbula & Sapphire Coast

The roll call of magnificence is almost endless on this gem-like stretch of coast, the most southerly in the state. In a place this wild, you can’t help but go full you. Dine on oysters plucked straight from the water. Discover beaches where yours will be the only footprints. Dive into ocean pools rich with marine life. Hike along saw-toothed cliffs and through magical tea-tree groves to untouched, emerald-green bays hidden away in immense stretches of national park. Or simply bask in thrilling isolation in bush retreats where your only neighbours are the birds in the trees. If you adventure just that little bit further, the rewards speak for themselves. Escape the everyday – and the crowds – and let it all out on the Sapphire Coast.