The NSW South Coast is vast, diverse and a seriously beautiful part of the world. Spanning a stretch of postcard-like coastline over 400 kilometres — from Wollongong to the Victorian border — the region is dotted with the dreamy holiday destinations we know and love (hello, Kiama, Jervis Bay, Mollymook, Narooma and Berry, to name just a few) making for a road trip like no other.
This much-loved coastline is a goldmine of unrivalled natural beauty, charming towns, and bucket list-worthy experiences. From pristine beaches to boutique stays, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to the spectacular NSW South Coast. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers, your walking shoes, and your appetite!
STAY
Photography by Abbie Melle.
Set on 300 serene acres in Mossy Point — a quiet little haven four hours south of Sydney — The Oaks Ranch offers countryside hospitality just minutes from the beach. This charming 14-suite retreat boasts breathtaking views of the Deua Mountain Range, a magnesium pool and a 9-hole golf course. The Oaks Ranch is where nature, comfort, and relaxation meet.
Photography by Elise Hassey.
It’s likely you’ve swooned over this pastel-hued boutique stay on your Instagram feed, but if not, allow us to introduce you to Motel Molly. Located just meters from Mollymook’s iconic beaches, the aptly named Motel Molly is a fresh face on the NSW South Coast and is cool, playful and oozes a Mediterranean seaside feel. Looking for laid-back luxury? Welcome home.
Bannisters by the Sea is a South Coast classic. Once a modest 1960s motel, the now boutique luxury hotel has been a hotel hotspot for travellers since opening in 2001.
Perched on the headland in the heart of vibrant Mollymook, Bannisters by the Sea offers panoramic ocean views across 34 chic rooms, suites and designer penthouses.
In 2009, the hotel opened the now iconic seafood restaurant, Rick Stein at Bannisters, and it has since become a go-to for foodies and holiday-makers alike.
Photography by Elise Hassey.
Nature lover's, this one's for you. Paperbark Camp in Jervis Bay is a safari-style retreat that was inspired by luxury African safari lodges. Since opening in 1999, Paperbark Camp has become the country’s go-to location for luxury camping, or “glamping” as it’s now better known. The 12 canvas-clad tents are set amongst the soaring eucalyptus and, of course, paperbark trees for a true escape to nature. Spend your days reading, walking, kayaking, swimming, sleeping or snorkelling. Hello, reset.
Linnaeus Farm is a luxurious estate situated on over eight acres of manicured grounds just a short five minute drive from the heart of Berry. The five-bedroom property boasts beautiful 360 degree views of the surrounding rolling green countryside and Saddleback Mountain. Linnaeus Farm is home to all the bells and whistles you imagine of a luxury home — resort-style pool, meditation hut, vegetable garden and infrared sauna. This is country living at its very best.
DRINK + DINE
Arlo is the in-house dining experience at The Oaks Ranch open to both guests and the general public, and it is a culinary delight. Arlo’s philosophy is farm-to-table dining with a focus on locally sourced produce on the NSW South Coast so you can expect freshly caught seafood, sustainably-sourced meats and seasonal greens. Go for the food and stay for the newly designed restaurant space.
Valentina in Merimbula has been a must-visit dining experience since the doors to its seaside space opened in 2021, but since it was awarded its hat in 2023 by Good Food, it has since become a destination in its own right.
Describing itself as a “coastal australian restaurant”, Valentina has it all — chic interiors, a seasonal menu and sweeping water views.
Be sure to order the blue swimmer crab aglio e olio and a side of crunchy crushed potatoes. Chefs kiss!
As a 20-year-old institution in Narooma on the far south coast, Quarterdeck has been a long-standing favourite for both locals and holiday-goers for over two decades.
Housed in a timber oyster shed floating on the waters of the Wagonga Inlet, Quarterdeck is home to a menu with some of the freshest produce the South Coast has to offer. Now under hospitality group Merivale’s umbrella, the recently revamped space has been transformed into a vibrant tiki bar and restaurant. Order a banana daiquiri and watch the sun set.
Located inside a 19th-century former cheese factory, Milk Haus is a South Coast gem.
This garden-to-plate eatery in Milton — a charming village five minutes inland from the sandy shores of Mollymook — has a simple premise, “the love of good food, amazing wine and a whole lot of good times.”
The one-acre kitchen garden on site is where 80 percent of the restaurant’s produce is grown, making for one very fresh, honest and delicious menu.
Milk Haus is wholesome, it’s family-friendly and it’s unforgettable.
Cupitts Estate Restaurant is a truly special NSW South Coast experience. Located in Ulladulla, the venue’s abundant on-site kitchen garden inspires the farm-to-table menu and produces the freshest seasonal produce possible. The simple, yet sophisticated menu is paired with estate-produced wines and beers and panoramic views of the lush green countryside. A must-visit.
Narooma is known for its oysters, and The Oysters Farmers Daughter is known for serving the best oysters in town. Positioned across Wagonga Inlet from Quarterdeck Restaurant and Bar, The Oysters Farmers Daughter pulls straight from the farms in the area providing diners with some of the most freshly shucked oysters in the country.
DO
Hyams Beach
Whether you’re a sunseeker or not, Hyams Beach has to be seen to be believed. Famously home to the world’s whitest sand, Hyams Beach in Shoalhaven is also adored for its turquoise waters, scenic nature walks and dolphin spotting. A piece of pure paradise is waiting.
Kiama Coastal Walk
From ocean views to unspoilt beaches and spectacular rock formations, the Kiama Coastal Walk is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most scenic walks. For the keen walker, the complete track is approximately 20km one-way, or it can be broken up into three sections — North, Mid, and South — and each section is 5-8km if you prefer an easier stroll. Highlights include the Kiama Blowhole, Cathedral Rocks and Werri Beach. Put your walking shoes on, hit the track and enjoy the views.
The famous Berry Donut Van in Berry — arguably one of the country’s most picturesque towns — is an iconic South Coast landmark. For more than five decades, the Berry Donut Van has been serving up cinnamon donuts and sweet treats. No trip to the NSW South Coast is complete without stopping for a freshly cooked donut from the Berry Donut Van.
Bundanon is many things — an art museum, a wildlife sanctuary, eco-accomodation and award-winning architecture — just a short drive from Nowra.
Bundanon was once home to one of Australia’s most celebrated artists, Arthur Boyd, and his wife, Yvonne. The 1000-hectare property – which inspired much of Boyd’s artwork – was donated by the Boyd’s as a gift to the Australian people in 1993.
This South Coast art destination is a seriously special place to reconnect with nature, enjoy unique cultural experiences and to simply be inspired. A visit to Bundanon is non-negotiable.
