Top 10 Must-Visit Spots & Campgrounds on the NSW South Coast

The NSW South Coast is a paradise for road trippers, offering a mix of stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, lush national parks, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered as you travel the Sapphire Coast and beyond. Whether you're after scenic lookouts, secluded spots, or family-friendly attractions, this guide highlights the best of the South Coast to help you plan an unforgettable journey.

The Best Time to Visit the South Coast?

The NSW South Coast is a year-round destination, offering something unique with every season. Whether you’re after sun-soaked beach days or peaceful nature escapes, each time of year brings its own charm. From the blooming landscapes of spring to the cozy, quiet beauty of winter, the region’s changing water temperatures and scenery create a dynamic experience. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect when visiting this stunning coastal area in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Spring on the NSW South Coast brings blooming wildflowers, lush greenery, and comfortable temperatures. With water warming to around 18°C (64°F), it’s refreshing for a swim or coastal walks with whale watching.

Summer is ideal for beach activities, with long sunny days and water temperatures between 22-24°C (72-75°F), perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling. Festivals and a vibrant atmosphere make it the ultimate beach season.

Autumn offers milder weather, fewer tourists, and pleasant water temperatures around 20°C (68°F), great for beach outings, kayaking, and camping.

Winter is a tranquil retreat with cool days and water around 16°C (61°F), perfect for peaceful coastal walks, wildlife spotting, and cozy stays near the ocean.

1. Royal National Park

Figure 8 Pools

Start your trip just south of Sydney at the Royal National Park, the world's second-oldest national park. Famous for its dramatic coastal cliffs and lush rainforests, take time to explore the iconic Figure 8 Pools or hike along the Coast Track. Don't miss the picturesque Wattamolla Beach, perfect for a swim or a picnic.

Must-Do Walk: The Coast Track offers stunning coastal views, dramatic cliffs, and beaches. The 26 km trail runs from Bundeena to Otford, with shorter sections for day hikes.

Scenic Spot: Figure 8 Pools, located in a rocky section of the park, are natural ocean rock pools shaped like the number 8.

Where to Camp:

• Bonnie Vale Campground – Bonnie Vale is the main campground within Royal National Park. It offers a beachfront setting, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing
• North Era Campground – North Era is a more remote and peaceful option within Royal National Park. It’s located along the iconic Coast Track, making it a great stop for hikers.
• Uloola Falls Campground – Uloola Falls Campground is a beautiful, remote option. It’s accessible via the Uloola Track from Waterfall or Audley, offering a tranquil setting near the waterfalls.

*Royal National Park does not allow free camping

2. Kiama

Big4 Easts Holiday Park

A visit to Kiama isn’t complete without stopping at the famous blowhole, one of the largest in the world. Watch the ocean spray shoot high into the air as waves crash against the rocks. For a quieter experience, check out the nearby Little Blowhole, which is often less crowded but equally spectacular. Also make sure you check out the famous Kiama Pie Shop!

Must-Do Walk: The Kiama Coast Walk stretches 22 km along the coastline from Minnamurra to Gerringong. The walk passes iconic sites like Kiama Blowhole, Little Blowhole, and several picturesque beaches.

Scenic Spot: Kiama Blowhole at sunset is particularly spectacular, with water shooting up to 25 metres high.

Where to Camp:

• BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park – One of Australia’s best family holiday destinations and caravan parks with a stunning location right on the beach

3. Jervis Bay

Hyams Beach

Known for having some of the whitest sand in the world, Jervis Bay is a must-visit on your South Coast road trip. Hyams Beach, in particular, offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun. For nature lovers, Booderee National Park offers pristine beaches, walking tracks, and the chance to spot local wildlife like kangaroos and dolphins.

Must-Do Walk: The White Sands Walk is a short, easy walk along some of the whitest sands in the world. The 2.5 km return walk takes you from Greenfield Beach to Hyams Beach.

Scenic Spot: Hyams Beach – Famous for its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters.

Where to Camp:

• Green Patch Campground – Beautiful bush camping with easy beach access.

4. Mollymook Beach

Ingenia Holidays Ulladulla

For a more relaxed stop, head to Mollymook Beach, known for its great surf and laid-back atmosphere. The nearby town of Ulladulla offers fresh seafood and charming cafes, perfect for a relaxing break on your journey.

Must-Do Walk: Bannisters Point Walking Track offers sweeping views of the ocean and is a popular whale-watching spot.

Scenic Spot: The Mollymook Beach stretches along the shoreline for an easy stroll, perfect for catching views of dolphins.

Where to Camp:

• Ingenia Holidays Ulladulla – If you’re looking for a complete coastal escape, you've found one!

5. Murramarang National Park

Pebbly Beach

Home to beautiful secluded beaches and abundant wildlife, Murramarang National Park is a hidden gem. Spend the day exploring its walking trails, swimming in sheltered coves, or camping by the beach. Make sure you check out Bawley Point, Depot Beach, and Pebbly Beach - here, you’re likely to encounter kangaroos grazing near the beach or enjoying the shade of the eucalypts!

Must-Do Walk: The Durras Mountain Walking Track is a challenging but rewarding hike through bushland, with stunning views of the coast and hinterland.

Scenic Spot: Pebbly Beach is famous for its friendly kangaroos and beautiful coastal scenery.

Where to Camp:

• Ingenia Holidays Merry Beach – wake up to the sounds of waves crashing, right on the edge of the national park at Merry Beach.
• Pebbly Beach Campground – Tucked behind the forest along the coastline, this is the ultimate place to set up camp and enjoy the splendours of Murramarang National Park

6. Batemans Bay

NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort

This popular coastal town is a great spot for family-friendly activities. Take a boat trip on the Clyde River, visit the Mogo Wildlife Park, or explore the scenic coastline. Batemans Bay is also a gateway to nearby national parks like Eurobodalla, where you can enjoy bushwalks and coastal views.

Must-Do Walk: The Cullendulla Boardwalk and Track takes you through mangroves and offers beautiful views of Batemans Bay and the Clyde River.

Scenic Spot: Observation Point – A top spot for panoramic views over the bay.

Where to Camp:

• NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort – Camp right on the amazing Murramarang Beach Reserve!
• Ingenia Holidays Tomakin - Camp right in the middle of Batemans Bay, Brulee Beach and the Tollgate Islands.

7. Narooma and Montague Island

Wagonga Beach and Walks

Further down the coast, Narooma offers stunning coastal views and plenty of opportunities for water-based activities. Take a boat tour to Montague Island, where you can snorkel with seals or spot penguins and other wildlife. The nearby Glasshouse Rocks are also worth a visit for their striking formations and secluded beach walks.

Must-Do Walk: Wagonga Beach and Walks is an ideal spot to sit back and enjoy a picnic lunch, with spectacular water views and short walks in many directions.

Scenic Spot: Glasshouse Rocks and Pillow Lava – These unique formations rise from the sand and are a photographer's dream.

Where to Camp:

• BIG4 Narooma East's Holiday Park – Experience the best of both worlds! Being located on the edge of the pristine waters of the Wagonga Inlet and situated in the centre of Narooma township.

8. Bermagui

Bermagui Blue Pool

This laid-back fishing village is one of the South Coast’s best-kept secrets. Visit the Blue Pool, a natural rock pool ideal for swimming and snorkelling, or explore the nearby Camel Rock. Bermagui’s unspoiled beaches and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect stop to unwind.

Must-Do Walk: Walk from Camel Rock to Murunna Point via the short but scenic coastal walking track, offering views of Camel Rock and the stunning coastline.

Scenic Spot: Blue Pool – A natural ocean pool carved into the rock, ideal for a refreshing swim.

Where to Camp:

• Ingenia Holidays Ocean Lake – A lake on one side, and the ocean on the other - this is the ultimate summer retreat!
• Reflections Bermagui – Minutes to everything, yet miles from it all Offering just the right mix of charm and convenience.

9. Pambula

Discovery Parks - Pambula Beach

Pambula is a charming town offering a mix of history, nature, and excellent local food. Known for its oysters and stunning river scenery, Pambula also boasts beaches ideal for swimming, surfing, and spotting wildlife. It’s a quiet stop with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful break.
– Enjoy a family-friendly campground near the beach, with plenty of facilities.

Must-Do Walk: The Pambula River Walking Track is an easy walk along the river, offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including kangaroos and birds.

Scenic Spot: Pambula Beach – A picturesque spot ideal for swimming and surfing, often frequented by dolphins.

Where to Camp:

• Discovery Parks Pambula Beach – Tucked into the northern tip of the rugged Ben Boyd National Park on the NSW Sapphire Coast, our caravan park is on the doorstep of a nature lover’s paradise.

10. Eden

Ingenia Holidays Eden Beachfront

At the southern tip of the NSW South Coast lies Eden, a town rich in whaling history and natural beauty. Visit the Eden Killer Whale Museum to learn about the region’s maritime past, or take a whale-watching tour between May and November for a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Must-Do Walk: The Light to Light Walk in Ben Boyd National Park stretches 30 km from Boyd’s Tower to Green Cape Lighthouse, offering rugged coastal views and the chance to spot whales in season.

Scenic Spot: Eden Lookout - Twofold Bay – A lookout over stunning natural harbour perfect for whale watching.

Where to Camp:

• Ingenia Holidays Eden Beachfront – A lush, family-friendly spot near the beach.
• Reflections Eden Holiday Park – If you’re looking for large sites in a picture-perfect waterfront location – a place to recharge the mind and rediscover the soul – look no further than Reflections Holidays Eden.

The NSW South Coast offers a diverse mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming towns. Whether you’re after an action-packed road trip or a peaceful getaway, this region has something for everyone. Plan your route, pack your bags, and get ready to explore one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives!