The Shoalhaven region stretches from Kangaroo Valley to Depot Beach, encompassing spectacular beaches, rich hinterland, and historic townships. Two hours from Sydney & Canberra, families have a smorgasbord of nature, adventure, relaxing and foodie activities at their fingertips. Here’s why should should visit.
Water sports
Winter draws surfers from all over the country with some of the best breaks on the South Coast. Shoalhaven’s top kid-friendly beaches include Mollymook, Culburra, Cave and Pretty Beach. There are also 16 white sand beaches that offer a slice of paradise without having to venture to a remote island.
Not so keen on taking on the waves? Shoalhaven has a wealth of lakes, inlets and swimming beaches to keep you cool in the warmer months. Stand Up Paddle in Jervis Bay, snorkel in the caves of Point Perpendicular and kayak the Kangaroo River with the kids on your next visit.
Whale watching
One of Shoalhaven’s biggest draw cards for nature-lovers is it’s incredible whale-watching opportunities. Jervis Bay has become a thoroughfare for whales making their yearly migration. During their 5,000km journey, they put on quite a show as they pass along the South Coast. Shoalhaven has some of the best vantage points to see these incredible mammals in action.
Food & wine
Locally-sourced seafood and delicious fresh produce from surrounding farmlands make Shoalhaven a great spot for foodie families. Weekend markets, paddock-to-plate eateries and trendy cafes will tempt your tastebuds year round. Sampling the spoils of the South Coast is thirsty work so be sure to include a bit of wine tasting at the region’s family-friendly vineyards and cellar-doors.
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Filling hungry tummies on the South Coast
I was blessed with parents who really saw the value in travel. After our first family trip abroad to Thailand, I became obsessed. I was hungry for anything new and different. I yearned to be in the middle of a city on the other side of the world with a suitcase in one hand and google maps in the other, stumbling around trying to figure out where I was going; literally and spiritually.