3 unmissable South Coast holiday destinations

Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie © Kylie Geelan

Few places epitomise Australia like the NSW South Coast. You’ll find endless stretches of powdery sand, mountainous backdrops, artisan eateries – and that laid-back vibe Aussies love.

Welcome to Shoalhaven, a region on the South Coast of New South Wales blessed with a string of over 100 secluded beaches to choose from.

Saunter along white sand with aqua-coloured waters home to pods of dolphins. Then venture into charming towns framed by national parks begging to be explored.

Honeymoon Bay, Jervis Bay © Jordan Robins

Jervis Bay

The most famed of the region’s bays is Jervis, home to Hyams Beach with the world’s whitest sand.

Jervis Bay is the gateway to Aboriginal-owned Booderee National Park to the south – but it’s not all tranquil forest walks here, although there is that too. In winter, head to the historic Cape St George Lighthouse, where you can spot migrating whales. It’s also a marine park and you can snorkel the crystal-clear waters to see a kaleidoscope of sea life including a fur seal colony.

On the other side of Beecroft Peninsula, take the 2.5-kilometres Wreck Walk from Abrahams Bosom Reserve to see the wreck of SS Merimbula, which ran aground on the rocks at Beecroft in 1928.

Where to stay in Jervis Bay

At Holiday Haven Currarong. Hire kayaks or SUPs and enjoy the pool. If you’re travelling with kiddies they will love the splash pad. After a day of adventure, kick back at the outdoor cinema. Pet-friendly options are available.

Holiday Haven Currarong

Kangaroo Valley

Kangaroo Valley is an hour’s drive northwest of Jervis Bay. You’ll be surrounded by bucolic countryside with the Kangaroo River rolling through it all.

It’s a region as well known for its verdant landscapes as its pies. Pick one up from the Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop or Bakehouse, then head out to paddle along the river with Kangaroo Valley Kayaks. Or join the fishermen hauling in bass, mullet and trout.

Don’t miss the trails at Morton National Park, where you’ll stand on cliff edges and gaze across ancient river gorges. The Three Views Walk is 9.5 kilometres return, and in your company, you’ll have wombats, swamp wallabies, echidnas and kangaroos, not to mention the birdlife overhead.

Kangaroo Valley © Somethingswild

Where to stay in Kangaroo Valley

If the farmyard full of animals doesn’t entice you to check in to one of the cabins or campsites at Holiday Haven Kangaroo Valley, then the fire pits, playground and dog-friendly accommodation options will. The setting doesn’t get any better, with access to the Kangaroo River next to the heritage-listed Hampden Bridge. Canoeing, Kayaking and tantalising cafes are right on the park’s doorstep.

Kayaking in Kangaroo Valley

Mollymook

Surf runs in the veins of locals in Mollymook. Experienced riders try to outrun the white water, while frothy waves lap at the toes of those walking on the ocean’s edge. Mollymook, an hour south of Jervis Bay, is the place for those wanting to learn to ride a wave, and lessons are guided by former pro tour surfer, Pam Burridge, who calls this slice of paradise home.

Further down the South Coast is Ulladulla. Take a guided walk to see the 280-million-year-old fossils that line the harbour, then head inland to the Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track in Morton National Park. After a steep five-kilometre hike, you’ll be rewarded with valley and mountain views that seem to never end. Nature at its finest.

North Mollymook Beach © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Mollymook

Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie is near the Termeil State Forest and the Meroo National Park. The park has sweeping views across to Crampton Island. Get hearts racing on the BMX pump track and tennis court, before cooling off on the splash pad or in the solar-heated pool. Bring your pooch along during low season at selected sites.

Lakefront and beachfront Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie

The article was created in partnership with Holiday Haven. For more information on Holiday Haven’s 12 unique locations spanning Shoalhaven visit holidayhaven.com.au

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Original author: Bedford