Known for their pristine beaches and beautiful national parks, the charming coastal towns of NSW’s South Coast truly tick every box for a weekend road trip or a calming getaway.

Only an easy 2 hour drive from Sydney, this region is mostly known for being a Summer Holiday hot spot, but there is so much more to explore in this stunning part of the world that doesn’t involve surfing or bush walking. Being born & bred on the NSW South Coast I’ve rounded up a local’s guide to making your coastal trip one to remember!

SLEEP

One of the most important parts of any trip is ‘where to sleep’, from retro motels to ocean view properties, the area has something to suit every budget.

Starting off with an affordable gem, Motel Molly created quite a buzz when it first opened in 2022. With it’s seaside location and Moroccan Inspired decor, the rooms are designed to soothe the soul and treat guests to a coastal retreat. Moving a little North you’ll find the world famous beaches of Jervis Bay. An area buzzing with groth & popularity, Australia’s Original Luxury Safari Camp, Paperbark Camp is located close to the township of Huskisson and offers a luxury tented experience with superb local food and will engulf you in the style and comfort of the natural surroundings.

If cosy country towns is more your vibe than look no further than the charming town of Berry. Surrounded by rolling green hills, the area is famous for it’s award-winning restaurants, small boutiques and close by wineries. A perfect place to lay your head for the night is the The Homestead, offering the best of both worlds this boutique private luxury accommodation is nestled on five acres of heritage-listed rural property and is only a 5 minute walk to the main street of Berry.

EAT

Whether you’re looking for a casual cafe, a locally sourced feast or a quick sweet treat the coast has you covered!

Located in the picturesque town of Kiama you’ll find an array of quality & modern cafes such as the Manning St Local, this small shop offers delicious coffee, fresh sandwiches and decadent pastries. Up the road you’ll find an inviting restaurant named Little Betty’s where you diners can enjoy specialty crafted cocktails, world class wines, an appetising food menu all while taking in the view on their balcony area.

If a sweet treat on the go is more your taste then you can’t go past the famous Berry Donut Van, serving steaming hot cinnamon coated donuts that will get you through any road trip. Heading further south to Milton where you’ll find charming cafes and shops throughout this historical township. Flour Water Salt offers freshly baked goods such as artisen sourdough, hand crafted cakes and freshly made flaky pastries. Close by you’ll be spoiled for choice at the Woodstock Chocolate Co. store where you can enjoy premium small-batch chocolates that are made with the finest Belgian couverture and fresh Australian ingredients right there in-store!

Since the ocean is always nearby seafood is an absolute must and look no further than the award winning Pelican Rocks Seafood Restaurant & Cafe located in Greenwell Point. Awarded ‘Best fish & chips in Australia’ in 2019 and 2022, this place is a local’s favourite, serving fresh lobsters, oysters and any other seafood you can think of it’s a perfect place to takeaway for a picnic or dine in by the sea.

Enjoying a sip of local wine or just having a chilled lunch is another go to in the colder months, some of the top wineries on the coast include Cupitt’s Estate in Ulladulla, Silos Estate in Berry and the Crooked River Estate in Gerringong.

EXPLORE

When the weather becomes more chilly and we move into Autumn the beach is usually not the top choice for most travellers but those looking for outdoor fun should head straight to Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures in Jambaroo. A captivating experience for those who love to explore, you’ll be able to experience nature from new heights with their famous Treetop Walk, a leisurely 1.5-kilometre loop track that boasts a 500-metre elevated steel walkway 20-30 metres above the lush forest floor. If you’re looking for a more heart racing experience than make sure to try their Zipline Tour that takes you to a breathtaking 35 metres above the forest floor.

If you’re looking to explore more on the water make sure to book a Dolphin Watch Cruise or a Whale Watch Cruise (available from May to November) where you’ll be able to see these stunning animals up close while enjoying the scenic view of stunning Jervis Bay.