Are you looking for a perfect getaway on the South Coast of NSW? Do you want to experience the natural wonders and foodie attractions of a spectacular and picturesque town? If yes, then Narooma is the place for you. Narooma is a coastal paradise with clear blue waters and amazing wildlife, where you can enjoy a range of activities, from diving and snorkelling to golfing and cycling.
Whether you are travelling solo, with your partner, with your family, or with your friends, Narooma has something for everyone. Read on to find out more about this amazing destination and plan your trip to Narooma today.
Things to do in Narooma
One of the best things about Narooma is that there is so much to do, both indoors and outdoors, for all ages and interests. You can explore the stunning coastline, discover the rich marine life, enjoy the fresh and delicious seafood, and relax in the comfortable and cosy accommodation. Here are some of the things to do in Narooma that you should not miss:
Water activities
Narooma is a water lover’s dream, with clear blue water and a variety of water activities to choose from. You can dive, snorkel, kayak, paddle board, surf, swim, or boat in the pristine waters of Narooma and see the amazing underwater world. Some of the popular spots and operators for these activities are:
Montague Island: Montague Island is a nature reserve and a wildlife sanctuary, where you can see seals, penguins, dolphins, whales, and birds. You can also learn about the island’s history and culture, and admire the lighthouse. You can access the island by boat tours or private charters, such as Narooma Charters, which offer guided tours, snorkelling, diving, fishing, and camping options.
Narooma Surf School: Narooma Surf School is a professional and friendly surf school that offers surfing lessons and equipment hire for all levels and ages. You can learn to surf or improve your skills at some of the best surfing beaches in Narooma, such as Surf Beach, Broulee Beach, and Dalmeny Beach.
Narooma Aquatic Centre: Narooma Aquatic Centre is a great place to have fun and stay fit, with a heated indoor pool, a spa, a sauna, and a gym. You can swim, exercise, or relax in the aquatic centre, which also offers swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, and birthday parties.
Land activities
Narooma is not only a water paradise, but also a land paradise, with scenic and diverse landscapes and a variety of land activities to choose from. You can cycle, golf, hike, shop, or sightsee in the beautiful surroundings of Narooma and see the amazing natural and cultural attractions. Some of the popular spots and operators for these activities are:
Narooma Bike Hire: Narooma Bike Hire is a convenient and affordable way to explore Narooma by bike. You can hire a bike, a helmet, and a lock, and ride along the Narooma to Dalmeny Cycleway, which is a 21 km paved path that follows the coastline and offers stunning views of the ocean, the beaches, and the wildlife.
Narooma Golf Club: Narooma Golf Club is a premier golf club that offers a challenging and scenic 18-hole golf course, with spectacular views of the ocean, the islands, and the mountains. You can play golf, enjoy the clubhouse facilities, or dine at the Whale Restaurant, which serves delicious food and drinks with panoramic views.
Narooma Lighthouse Museum: Narooma Lighthouse Museum is a historical and educational museum that showcases the history and heritage of Narooma and the South Coast. You can see the original lens of the Montague Island Lighthouse, learn about the whaling industry, the shipwrecks, and the local stories, and browse the gift shop.
Wildlife encounters
Narooma is a wildlife lover’s paradise, with abundant and diverse wildlife and a variety of wildlife encounters to choose from. You can see seals, penguins, dolphins, whales, stingrays, and birds in their natural habitats, and learn about their behaviour and conservation. Some of the popular spots and operators for these encounters are:
Narooma Charters: Narooma Charters is a family-owned and operated charter company that offers wildlife tours and cruises to Montague Island and the surrounding waters. You can see seals, penguins, dolphins, whales, and birds, and learn about their ecology and history from the experienced and knowledgeable guides.
Narooma Whale Watching: Narooma Whale Watching is a specialised whale watching company that offers whale watching tours and cruises from September to November, when the humpback whales migrate along the coast. You can see the whales up close, hear their sounds, and learn about their behaviour and migration from the friendly and passionate crew.
Narooma Boardwalk: Narooma Boardwalk is a scenic and accessible walkway that follows the shoreline of Wagonga Inlet, from Apex Park to Mill Bay. You can stroll, skate, or run along the boardwalk, and see the stingrays, fish, and birds that live in the inlet. You can also stop at the viewing platforms, the picnic areas, and the fishing spots along the way.
Eat and drink in Narooma
One of the best things about Narooma is that there is so much to eat and drink, offering a variety of cuisines and atmospheres. You can enjoy the fresh and delicious seafood, especially oysters, sample the Asian flavours, sip a coffee or a beer, and relax in the cosy and lively venues. Here are some of the places to eat and drink in Narooma that you should not miss:
Seafood
Narooma is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood, especially oysters, which are grown in the clean and clear waters of Wagonga Inlet and Clyde River. You can enjoy the oysters and other seafood at some of the best places in Narooma, such as:
The Quarterdeck: The Quarterdeck is a waterfront restaurant and bar that serves fresh and local seafood, such as oysters, fish and chips, calamari, and prawns. You can also enjoy the live music, the cocktails, and the views of the inlet and the bridge.
The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter: The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter is a family-owned and operated oyster farm and shop that sells fresh and premium oysters, harvested daily from their leases in Wagonga Inlet. You can also buy other seafood, such as mussels, scallops, and lobsters, and enjoy them at the picnic tables or take them home.
The Inlet: The Inlet is a seafood restaurant and takeaway that serves fresh and tasty seafood, such as oysters, fish and chips, burgers, and salads. You can also enjoy the views of the inlet, the playground, and the boat ramp.
Narooma Oyster Festival: Narooma Oyster Festival is an annual event that celebrates the oysters and the culture of Narooma and the South Coast. You can enjoy the oyster tasting, the cooking demonstrations, the live music, the art and craft stalls, and the fireworks.
Asian
Narooma also has some Asian restaurants that offer authentic and flavoursome Asian food, such as Cantonese and Thai. You can enjoy the Asian food at some of the best places in Narooma, such as:
Queen Chow: Queen Chow is a Cantonese restaurant that serves traditional and modern Cantonese food, such as dim sum, roast duck, noodles, and stir-fries. You can also enjoy the cocktails, the wine list, and the views of the inlet and the bridge.
Thai Narooma: Thai Narooma is a Thai restaurant that serves authentic and spicy Thai food, such as curries, soups, salads, and stir-fries. You can also enjoy the vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and the BYO policy.
Cafe
Narooma has some cafes that offer breakfast, lunch, coffee, and snacks, with a range of options and flavours. You can enjoy the cafes at some of the best places in Narooma, such as:
Salt: Salt is a cafe and restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, coffee, and cakes, with a focus on local and seasonal produce. You can also enjoy the smoothies, the juices, and the views of the ocean and the beach.
Raven Cafe & Grill: Raven Cafe & Grill is a cafe and restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, coffee, and desserts, with a variety of options and cuisines. You can also enjoy the burgers, the pizzas, and the live music.
Bound to Earth: Bound to Earth is a cafe and health food store that serves breakfast, lunch, coffee, and snacks, with a focus on organic and vegan food. You can also enjoy the salads, the wraps, and the smoothie bowls.
Pub
Narooma has some pubs that offer drinks, meals, and entertainment, with a cosy and lively atmosphere. You can enjoy the pubs at some of the best places in Narooma, such as:
Lynch’s Hotel: Lynch’s Hotel is a historic and iconic pub that offers drinks, meals, and entertainment, with a friendly and welcoming vibe. You can also enjoy the sports, the trivia, the karaoke, and the live music.
The Whale Inn: The Whale Inn is a modern and stylish pub that offers drinks, meals, and entertainment, with a cosy and lively atmosphere. You can also enjoy the cocktails, the tapas, and the views of the ocean and the golf course.
O’Brien’s Hotel: O’Brien’s Hotel is a traditional and friendly pub that offers drinks, meals, and entertainment, with a relaxed and fun vibe. You can also enjoy the pool, the darts, the jukebox, and the live music.
Stay in Narooma
One of the best things about Narooma is that there is so much to stay, ranging from luxury to budget options. You can enjoy the comfortable and cosy accommodation, with ocean views, swimming pools, spas, barbecue facilities, and pet-friendly options. Here are some of the places to stay in Narooma that you should not miss:
Hotels
Narooma has some hotels that offer quality and convenience, with spacious and well-equipped rooms, and friendly and helpful staff. You can enjoy the hotels at some of the best places in Narooma, such as:
Amooran Oceanside Apartments and Motel: Amooran Oceanside Apartments and Motel is a four-star hotel that offers apartments and motel rooms, with ocean views, balconies, kitchenettes, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the outdoor pool, the spa, the barbecue area, and the laundry facilities.
Horizon Apartments: Horizon Apartments is a four-star hotel that offers apartments, with ocean views, balconies, kitchens, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the outdoor pool, the spa, the barbecue area, and the parking facilities.
Coastal Comfort Motel: Coastal Comfort Motel is a three-star hotel that offers motel rooms, with ocean views, balconies, fridges, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the garden, the barbecue area, and the laundry facilities.
Holiday parks
Narooma has some holiday parks that offer affordability and flexibility, with cabins, villas, and campsites, and family-friendly and pet-friendly amenities. You can enjoy the holiday parks at some of the best places in Narooma, such as:
BIG4 Narooma Easts Holiday Park: BIG4 Narooma Easts Holiday Park is a four-star holiday park that offers cabins, villas, and campsites, with ocean views, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the indoor pool, the water park, the playground, and the games room.
Island View Beach Resort: Island View Beach Resort is a four-star holiday park that offers cabins, villas, and campsites, with ocean views, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the outdoor pool, the spa, the tennis court, and the mini golf.
Surf Beach Holiday Park: Surf Beach Holiday Park is a three-star holiday park that offers cabins, villas, and campsites, with ocean views, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the beach access, the playground, and the barbecue area.
Cottages
Narooma has some cottages that offer charm and privacy, with rustic and cosy features, and scenic and tranquil settings. You can enjoy the cottages at some of the best places in Narooma, such as:
Mystery Bay Cottages: Mystery Bay Cottages is a four-star cottage that offers cottages, with ocean views, fireplaces, kitchens, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the garden, the barbecue area, and the pet-friendly policy.
Tilba Lake Camp: Tilba Lake Camp is a four-star cottage that offers cottages, with lake views, fireplaces, kitchens, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the outdoor pool, the hot tub, the yoga deck, and the farm animals.
The Bryn at Tilba: The Bryn at Tilba is a four-star cottage that offers cottages, with mountain views, fireplaces, kitchens, and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the garden, the barbecue area, and the breakfast basket.
Explore the surrounding areas of Narooma
One of the best things about Narooma is that there is so much to explore, not only in the town itself, but also in the surrounding areas. You can visit the nearby places that offer more natural wonders, cultural attractions, and foodie delights. Here are some of the places to explore from Narooma that you should not miss:
Montague Island
Montague Island is an island off the coast of Narooma, that is a nature reserve and a wildlife sanctuary, and a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can see seals, penguins, dolphins, whales, and birds, and learn about the island’s history and culture. You can access the island by boat tours or private charters, such as Narooma Charters, which offer guided tours, snorkelling, diving, fishing, and camping options. Some of the attractions and activities on Montague Island are:
The lighthouse: The lighthouse is a historic and iconic landmark on Montague Island, that was built in 1881 and is still operational today. You can take a guided tour of the lighthouse, and learn about its history, architecture, and operation. You can also stay overnight in the lighthouse keeper’s cottages, which have been restored and modernised.
The seal colony: The seal colony is a large and lively group of Australian and New Zealand fur seals, that live on the northern tip of Montague Island. You can see the seals from the boat, or get closer to them by snorkelling or diving with them. You can also learn about their behaviour, ecology, and conservation.
The little penguin colony: The little penguin colony is a cute and charming group of little penguins, also known as fairy penguins, that live on the southern end of Montague Island. You can see the penguins from the boat, or join a guided tour to see them on land, especially at dusk, when they return to their burrows after fishing. You can also learn about their life cycle, diet, and threats.
The birdlife: The birdlife is a diverse and colourful array of birds, that live on and around Montague Island. You can see the birds from the boat, or walk along the island’s trails and boardwalks, and spot the different species, such as shearwaters, terns, gulls, and eagles. You can also learn about their migration, nesting, and feeding habits.
The whale watching: The whale watching is a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience, that takes place from September to November, when the humpback whales migrate along the coast. You can see the whales from the boat, or from the lighthouse, and witness their majestic and acrobatic displays, such as breaching, tail slapping, and spy hopping. You can also hear their sounds, and learn about their behaviour and migration.
Tilba region
Tilba region is a region in the foothills of Gulaga Mountain, that is renowned for its pure produce, bespoke arts and crafts, and heritage architecture, and a popular destination for foodies and culture lovers. You can explore the historic and scenic villages, sample the local cheese and wine, and admire the views of the mountain. You can access the Tilba region by car, bus, or bike, from Narooma, along the Princes Highway. Some of the attractions and activities in the Tilba region are:
The historic villages: The historic villages are Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba, two charming and picturesque villages that are classified as National Trust villages, and have preserved their 19th century character and charm. You can walk along the main street, and see the colourful and quaint cottages, shops, cafes, and galleries, that sell local and handmade products, such as cheese, honey, chocolate, jewellery, and pottery.
The ABC Cheese Factory: The ABC Cheese Factory is a historic and iconic cheese factory that was established in 1891, and is still producing award-winning cheese today. You can take a tour of the cheese factory, and see how the cheese is made, from the milk to the maturation. You can also taste and buy the different varieties of cheese, such as cheddar, brie, blue, and feta.
The Dromedary Hotel: The Dromedary Hotel is a historic and cosy pub that was built in 1895, and is still operating today. You can enjoy a drink, a meal, and a chat, in the pub, which has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. You can also enjoy the live music, the trivia, the karaoke, and the accommodation, in the pub, which has a lively and fun vibe.
The Gulaga National Park: The Gulaga National Park is a natural and cultural park that covers the Gulaga Mountain, which is a sacred and significant place for the Yuin people, the traditional owners of the land. You can hike up the mountain, and see the stunning views of the coast, the forest, and the wildlife. You can also learn about the Aboriginal history, stories, and spirituality, of the mountain.
The Foxglove Gardens: The Foxglove Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil garden that covers 2.5 acres of land, and features a variety of plants, flowers, and trees. You can stroll through the garden, and see the roses, the camellias, the hydrangeas, and the orchids. You can also enjoy the tea room, the gift shop, and the accommodation, in the garden.
Mystery Bay
Mystery Bay is a coastal village near Narooma, that is surrounded by national parks, forest, and farmland, and features ancient rock formations, rock pools, pristine beaches, and local wildlife, and a popular destination for nature lovers and holiday makers. You can swim, surf, fish, camp, or explore in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of Mystery Bay. You can access Mystery Bay by car, bus, or bike, from Narooma, along the Princes Highway. Some of the attractions and activities in Mystery Bay are:
The beach: The beach is a long and sandy beach that stretches from Mystery Bay to 1080 Beach, and offers stunning views of the ocean and the islands. You can swim, surf, fish, or relax on the beach, which is patrolled by lifeguards in summer. You can also see the whales and dolphins from the beach, especially in spring and autumn.
The rock formations: The rock formations are ancient and impressive rock formations that are scattered along the coastline of Mystery Bay, and date back to the Devonian period, about 400 million years ago. You can see the rock formations from the beach, or walk along the rock platforms, and admire the shapes, colours, and textures of the rocks.
The rock pools: The rock pools are natural and shallow pools that are formed by the tide and the waves, and are filled with seawater and marine life. You can see the rock pools from the beach, or explore them by snorkelling or diving, and see the fish, crabs, starfish, and anemones that live in the pools.
The national park: The national park is the Eurobodalla National Park, which covers the land and the sea around Mystery Bay, and protects the diverse and native flora and fauna. You can walk, cycle, or drive through the national park, and see the forest, the wetlands, and the wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and birds.
The wildlife: The wildlife is the abundant and varied wildlife that lives in and around Mystery Bay, both on land and in the water. You can see the wildlife from the beach, the rock pools, the national park, or the boat, and encounter the seals, penguins, dolphins, whales, stingrays, and birds, that frequent the area.
Tilba Valley Winery & Alehouse
Tilba Valley Winery & Alehouse is a winery and a pub that offers local wines, craft beers and ales, and live music, set on the banks of Corunna Lake and the foothills of Gulaga Mountain, and a popular destination for wine lovers and music lovers. You can taste, buy, or drink the wines, beers, and ales, enjoy the food and the entertainment, and admire the views of the lake and the mountain. You can access the winery and the pub by car, bus, or bike, from Narooma, along the Princes Highway. Some of the attractions and activities at Tilba Valley Winery & Alehouse are:
The wines: The wines are the award-winning and handcrafted wines that are made from the grapes grown on the estate, and reflect the terroir and the climate of the region. You can taste, buy, or drink the wines, such as the chardonnay, the shiraz, the cabernet sauvignon, and the merlot, and learn about the winemaking process and the history of the winery.
The beers and ales: The beers and ales are the craft and artisanal beers and ales that are made from the local and imported ingredients, and showcase the creativity and the passion of the brewers. You can taste, buy, or drink the beers and ales, such as the pale ale, the IPA, the stout, and the lager, and learn about the brewing process and the styles of the beers and ales.
The live music: The live music is the regular and varied live music that is performed by the local and visiting musicians, and features different genres and styles, such as rock, blues, jazz, and folk. You can enjoy the live music, dance, sing, or clap along, and support the artists and the community.
The food: The food is the delicious and hearty food that is served at the winery and the pub, and complements the wines, beers, and ales. You can enjoy the food, such as the cheese platter, the pizza, the burger, and the pie, and satisfy your appetite and your taste buds.
The views: The views are the stunning and scenic views that surround the winery and the pub, and offer a relaxing and picturesque backdrop. You can admire the views of the Corunna Lake, which is a large and calm lake that is home to many waterbirds, and the Gulaga Mountain, which is a sacred and majestic mountain that is revered by the Yuin people.
Plan your trip to Narooma
One of the best things about Narooma is that it is easy and convenient to plan your trip, with practical and helpful information on how to get there, when to visit, and what to pack. You can enjoy your trip to Narooma, without any hassle or stress, and make the most of your time and money. Here are some of the tips and advice to plan your trip to Narooma:
How to get to Narooma
Narooma is located on the Eurobodalla Coast, about 350 km south of Sydney and 220 km east of Canberra, and is accessible by car, plane, or bus, from both cities. Here are some of the transport options to get to Narooma:
By car: Driving to Narooma by car is the most flexible and convenient option, as you can enjoy the scenic route, stop at the attractions along the way, and explore the town and the surrounding areas at your own pace. The drive from Sydney to Narooma takes about 4.5 hours, and follows the Princes Highway, which passes through the towns of Wollongong, Kiama, Nowra, Ulladulla, and Batemans Bay. The drive from Canberra to Narooma takes about 3 hours, and follows the Kings Highway, which passes through the towns of Queanbeyan, Bungendore, Braidwood, and Moruya.
By plane: Flying to Narooma by plane is the fastest and easiest option, as you can save time and energy, and enjoy the aerial views of the coast and the countryside. The nearest airport to Narooma is the Moruya Airport, which is about 40 km north of Narooma, and offers daily flights from Sydney and Canberra, operated by Regional Express Airlines. The flight from Sydney to Moruya takes about 1 hour, and the flight from Canberra to Moruya takes about 40 minutes. You can then take a taxi, a bus, or a car rental, from the airport to Narooma, which takes about 30 minutes.
By bus: Taking a bus to Narooma by bus is the cheapest and most eco-friendly option, as you can save money and reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy the company of other travellers. The main bus company that operates between Narooma and Sydney or Canberra is Premier Motor Service, which offers daily services from both cities, with stops at the towns along the way. The bus from Sydney to Narooma takes about 7 hours, and the bus from Canberra to Narooma takes about 4 hours. You can then take a taxi, a bike, or a walk, from the bus stop to your accommodation in Narooma, which takes about 10 minutes.
When to visit Narooma
Narooma is a year-round destination, with mild and sunny weather, and events and festivals throughout the year. However, depending on your preferences and interests, some seasons may be more suitable than others. Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing the best time to visit Narooma:
Weather:
Narooma has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons, and average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25°C throughout the year. The warmest and driest months are from December to February, which are ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The coolest and wettest months are from June to August, which are ideal for hiking, cycling, and sightseeing. The spring and autumn months are from September to November and from March to May, which are ideal for whale watching, birdwatching, and fishing.
Events:
Narooma has a vibrant and diverse calendar of events and festivals, that celebrate the culture, the food, and the music of the town and the region. Some of the major events and festivals that take place throughout the year are:
Narooma Oyster Festival: Narooma Oyster Festival is an annual event that takes place in May, and celebrates the oysters and the culture of Narooma and the South Coast. You can enjoy the oyster tasting, the cooking demonstrations, the live music, the art and craft stalls, and the fireworks.
Narooma Blues Festival: Narooma Blues Festival is an annual event that takes place in September, and celebrates the blues and the music of Narooma and the South Coast. You can enjoy the live performances, the workshops, the jam sessions, and the markets.
Narooma Boats Afloat Festival: Narooma Boats Afloat Festival is an annual event that takes place in November, and celebrates the boats and the history of Narooma and the South Coast. You can enjoy the boat parade, the boat races, the boat displays, and the boat tours, and see the different types and styles of boats, such as wooden boats, classic boats, and vintage boats.
Narooma is a coastal paradise with clear blue waters and amazing wildlife, where you can enjoy a range of activities, from diving and snorkelling to golfing and cycling. You can also enjoy the fresh and delicious seafood, especially oysters, the cosy and comfortable accommodation, and the nearby places that offer more natural wonders, cultural attractions, and foodie delights. Narooma is a perfect getaway on the South Coast of NSW, where you can experience the natural beauty and the local charm of a spectacular and picturesque town.
Plan your trip to Narooma today, and discover why it is one of the best destinations in Australia.