The Perfect Day on the South Coast?

Michael Harris knows all about the South Coast of NSW. Here’s his perfect way to make the most of a day trip in the Shoalhaven region!

Every summer it seems like the entire population of Sydney packs up their cars to head 2 hours down the road into the Shoalhaven region.

With so many things to do with 10 national parks, a marine park, and over 100 different beaches (yep, 100+), and countless other nature reserves and natural attractions…. Who can blame them?

Some of the world’s best beaches are calling people to the South Coast which means things can get a little crowded… That’s not my idea of a relaxing trip, so just how much can you pack into one day without feeling like you are rushing around?

Join me to find out…

Sunrise at Jervis Bay

5:40 am: The early bird catches the worm, and if you are staying near (or live locally) go to one of Shoalhaven’s beautiful beaches for sunrise.

There’s something for everyone with so many beaches to pick from. Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay is undoubtedly the most popular and features some of the whitest sand in the world… this also makes it one of the busiest.

For those looking for something quieter, Seven Mile beach is, unsurprisingly… seven miles of beach between Gerroa and Shoalhaven Heads with plenty of room to find a nice spot to yourself.

The further south you head the more likely you are to find a hidden little slice of sandy heaven.

Be sure to do some rock hopping around Target Beach on the northern side of Jervis Bay or the small towns of Bendalong and Cunjurong Point.

Into the Rainforest

8:15 am: It’s hard to believe that after a short drive from the beach, and a quick stop for coffee that there are small patches of rainforest and lush slot canyons ripe for exploring!

You could be forgiven for thinking you are in Northern QLD and not on the South Coast of NSW but just outside of the town of Nowra in Bangalee is a small loop called The Forest Walk.

It’s a well-marked trail that meanders through some open eucalyptus forest. The track then drops down into a beautiful jungle of twisted fig trees and staghorns. The South Coast has so much to offer and this is definitely one of the highlights.

If you are there at the right time of the year when the sun is overhead you may see the rays of light spilling down through the ferns.

Drawing Room Rocks

11:50 am: Another drive north, through the town of Berry and up Woodhill mountain is the start of Drawing Room rocks walk, a steep but easy walk up the escarpment and a great place for lunch.

The walk begins off Brogers Creek Rd and is about a 4.5 km return trip that involves a mostly uphill climb/walk…. the view from the top though? Spectacular!

On a clear day you’ll be able to see Gerringong to the north, all of Seven Mile Beach and Jervis Bay to the south, Kangaroo Valley to the west, and if your eyesight is particularly good… as far south as Pigeon House mountain.

Kangaroo Valley Backroads

3:20 pm: I’m a big fan of the ‘scenic routes’ yes they are a little longer, a little slower and sometimes they are dirt roads but it’s better than sitting on a highway or backtracking from where you just came right?

After returning from Drawing Room Rocks you can head west into Kangaroo Valley via Wattamolla road. If you are inclined, stop at the Friendly Inn…. for hydration of course.

Leaving the town via Mt Scanzi road will soon get you on the loose stuff, but it’s usually in pretty good condition and well-graded and 2wd suitable… but always be careful especially on blind corners.

Not long after Mt Scanzi road turns into Budgong road it quickly drops down into a causeway (check the water depth) there’s a small spot on the side of the road to park and have a quick dip if the water is up.

If it’s been raining recently you may even get to drive through a waterfall… yes, you read that right.

Bugong National Park

7:53 pm: Bugong National Park is one of the lesser-known parks in the area is relatively small. The main highlight is the narrow spur near the end of the fire trail access road.

It offers uninterrupted views to the west over a section of the Shoalhaven River, which is accessible via lower Budgong ‘road’. (FYI Bugong is the NP, Budgong is the area – don’t get confused!)

Traveling about 2.5kms along the Illaroo fire trail, there’s a small roundabout area with space to park (if you start heading downhill quick, you’ve gone too far).

What better way to finish off the day than perched high atop the cliffs as the sun sets behind the mountains?

Shoalhaven is about 2 hours south of Sydney and follows the Princess Highway south and you can’t go wrong.

Distance Covered

130kms over the entire day (about 14 hours from sunup to sundown) + as little or as far as you want to walk.