Secluded swims can be hard to come by near popular holiday hot spots, so next time you’re on the NSW South Coast keep Wallagoot Gap in mind. 

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Yuin Nation, the traditional Country of the Yuin people who have occupied and cared for this land and water for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Highlights

  • Uncrowded swimming spot  
  • Seclusion between two busy towns 
  • Nearby fishing and bush walks

 

Merimbula and Tathra are popular places for beach holidays, but nestled between the two coastal townships on Yuin Country is a tiny, peaceful beach – Wallagoot Gap. The ‘gap’ from which this beach gets its name, is formed by two headlands that protect a quiet, sandy nook surrounded by an amphitheatre of sandstone and coastal scrub. 

Read more: Sapphire Coast Road Trip

Depending on the tide, the shore either comes up into the broad sandy inlet or stays out between the high cliffs on either side of the gap. Wading in the shallows is a spectacular way to cool off, but strong currents and submerged rocks mean caution is encouraged. 

 

 

Enjoy the space to read or relax in the sun! It’s an ideal spot to while the day away. 

Read more: 8 Skinny Dipping Spots Near Sydney

 

How To Get There

Wallagoot Gap is best accessed via car.

Parking’s available at the end of the dirt road which continues after the turnoff from Sapphire Coast Drive. Follow a dirt road past Wallagoot Lake, popular among fisherfolk, all the way to a car park near the Turinga Head trails. About half a kilometre from the car park, near the junction between two walking tracks along Turinga Head, follow the steps down to the sand.

Essential Gear

  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Swimmers
  • Towel
  • Walking shoes
  • Good book

Skill Level

Beginner

The walk is short and the gradient is flat. The only impediment to access is two short flights of stairs down to the beach. 

Distance / Duration

1.2km return from car park to beach / 15 mins