Shoalhaven Travel Guide

Explore the best of Shoalhaven, New South Wales with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and more.


A Comprehensive Guide to Shoalhaven: Explore the Best of New South Wales

If you’re in New South Wales, make sure to visit Shoalhaven. It’s a beautiful coastal region that offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. In this comprehensive guide to Shoalhaven, we’ll introduce you to the best places to visit, stay, eat, and more.

Introduction to Shoalhaven

Shoalhaven is located in the southeastern part of New South Wales, Australia. It’s best known for its gorgeous beaches, which draw surfers and beach-goers from around the world. It also has a rich cultural heritage, with museums and historical sites that showcase the Aboriginal and European history of the area.

List of Places to Visit in Shoalhaven

If you’re planning a trip to Shoalhaven, here are some must-visit places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Shoalhaven - This museum houses important artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Shoalhaven’s Aboriginal and European history.
  • Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place - Learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous people of the Shoalhaven region.
  • HMAS Albatross Fleet Air Arm Museum - Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy this museum, which showcases the history of Australia’s naval aviation.

Natural Attractions of Shoalhaven: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jervis Bay - This stunning beach is known for its clear waters, white sands, and abundant marine life. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, kayaking, and diving.
  • Clyde River National Park - This park has beautiful river views, hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
  • Pigeon House Mountain - This hiking trail offers amazing views of the Shoalhaven area and is a moderate hike for most skill levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shoalhaven

Shoalhaven is a haven for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some scenic routes to explore:

  • Berry Mountain Loop Track - This is a challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views of the mountains and forests of Shoalhaven.
  • Kiama to Gerringong Coastal walk - This 22km walk takes you through coastal villages and has plenty of lookout points along the way.
  • Manly to Palm Beach - This is a popular bike ride that takes you through the scenic Northern Beaches of Sydney.

Best Things to Do in Shoalhaven: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for activities and tours to do in Shoalhaven, here are some great options:

  • Dolphin and Whale watching - Shoalhaven is a great place to spot these marine mammals, whether through a guided tour or on your own.
  • Wine Tasting Tours - Take a tour of the local wineries to taste some of the best wines in the region.
  • Surfing Lessons - Beginners can learn to surf in the shallows of Seven Mile Beach, while more experienced surfers can take to the waves at Mollymook Beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shoalhaven

If you have a week to spend in Shoalhaven, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Jervis Bay and go swimming or kayaking in its clear waters
2 Take a scenic hike in Pigeon House Mountain
3 Visit Shoalhaven’s museums and historical sites
4 Take a wine tasting tour in the local wineries
5 Go on a dolphin and whale watching tour
6 Spend the day surfing at Mollymook Beach
7 Relax in the scenic Clyde River National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Shoalhaven

Shoalhaven has a growing food and drink scene, with lots of great restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oysters - Shoalhaven is known for its fresh and delicious oysters, which are often served with a squeeze of lemon.
  • Salt and Pepper Squid - Another local favourite, this dish is crispy and slightly spicy.
  • Kangaroo Steak - For the adventurous foodies, try this lean and flavourful meat.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Shoalhaven is home to many wineries producing high-quality wines, particularly white wines.
  • Beer - There are several breweries in the area, serving up craft beers and pub favourites.
  • Juices and Smoothies - Many cafes offer fresh and healthy juices and smoothies made with local fruits and vegetables.

Where to Stay in Shoalhaven: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shoalhaven has plenty of options for accommodation, whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel. Some top picks include:

  • Paperbark Camp - A glamping experience with safari-style tents and communal dining experiences.
  • Dolphin Sands Bed and Breakfast - A charming guesthouse with wonderful water views, luxurious amenities, and ample outdoor space.
  • Beachhouse Mollymook - These well-appointed apartments provide a perfect seaside home for families or groups of friends.

What to Buy in Shoalhaven: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to take home some souvenirs and locally-made products from Shoalhaven. Some popular items include:

  • Aboriginal Art - Original pieces of art created by local Aboriginals, including dot paintings and sculptures.
  • Olive Oil - Shoalhaven is known for its high-quality olive oil, which is perfect for cooking or dipping bread.
  • Wool Products - The area is known for its sheep farming, and locally-made wool products like sweaters, hats, and scarves are popular souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Shoalhaven

Shoalhaven has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect the traditions of the local Aboriginal people. Additionally, be sure to take care of the natural environment and leave it better than you found it.

Best Time to Visit Shoalhaven

The best time to visit Shoalhaven is during the peak season, from December to February, when the weather is sunny and warm. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, and prices for accommodation and activities will be higher. Alternatively, visiting during the shoulder season, from September to November or from March to May, can provide more comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shoalhaven

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the natural environment and avoid littering.
  • Stay hydrated while hiking or spending time outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Disturb or damage Aboriginal sites or artefacts.
  • Leave a fire unattended while camping.
  • Ignore the importance of sunscreen and hats while spending time outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shoalhaven

Shoalhaven is a relatively safe area to visit, but as always, visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings from theft or harm. Be aware of any ocean conditions, especially when surfing or swimming, and always respect any posted warnings or closures. Look both ways before crossing the street, especially in small towns with limited pedestrian infrastructure.

Health in Shoalhaven

Shoalhaven has medical facilities available for routine and emergency care. Visitors should take precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion, especially during the hot summer months, and protect against tick bites while hiking in wooded areas.

Getting to Shoalhaven: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shoalhaven is easily accessible by car or public transportation:

Airports Near Shoalhaven

  • Sydney Airport - 170km north of Shoalhaven.
  • Moruya Airport - 47km south of Shoalhaven.

Bus Stations Near Shoalhaven

  • Nowra Bus Station - Located in the centre of Nowra.
  • Bomaderry Bus Station - Located a few kilometres from Nowra.

Other Options

  • Car rental – Hire a car at Sydney Airport or other locations.
  • Private shuttle or taxi services – Available at Sydney Airport or other locations.

How to Get Around Shoalhaven

Visitors to Shoalhaven can rent cars, bikes, or take public transportation, including buses and taxis. Walking, especially in the towns, can be a pleasant way to explore the region as well.

Where to Go Next from Shoalhaven: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for nearby attractions to visit while in Shoalhaven, here are some other destinations to consider:

  • Sydney - A few hours’ drive up the coast, Australia’s largest city is known for its iconic landmarks and bustling atmosphere.
  • Wollongong - A nearby coastal city known for its stunning beaches, great food, and laid-back atmosphere.
  • South Coast - This region has many scenic towns, beaches, and national parks to explore.

Conclusion

Shoalhaven is a beautiful and culturally-rich area that has something to offer every traveller. We hope this guide has given you ideas for places to visit, eat, and stay while you’re exploring the region. Safe travels!



    Jervis Bay
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