The School holidays are quickly approaching, and Shoalhaven is the perfect place to escape the city with your family. 

Best known for the crystal clear waters of Jervis Bay, there are plenty of other reasons to visit the NSW South Coast. Here are our picks of family-friendly places to visit, stay and play in the Shoalhaven.

Swimming

The ocean and air outside have warmed up, and swimming is a must when visiting the South Coast. Jump offThe Gantryinto aquamarine water at Bawley Point; it’s great fun for adults too, before warming up in the sun on the black volcanic rock. While visiting Bawley Point, visit Pebbly Beach and hike to the Singing Stones beach, and say hello to local kangaroos along the way (don’t forget to bring a few coins for parking). 

Ulladulla Sea Pool is one of our favourite local secrets, this 50m ocean pool has calm waters all year round and overlooks the harbour. Similarly, enjoy views of verdant green rolling hills from Milton Pool (which includes a kiddy splash pool) which opens seasonally during daylight savings hours. 

Hyams Beach with its whitest sand in the world cannot be missed, and further north, Honeymoon Bay is a great swimming and picnic spot for young families. Narrawallee Beach is a personal family favourite of ours, it’s great for beach walking with dogs allowed off leashes in the mornings and afternoons. 

Adventure

Keen to be a little more adventurous? Learn to Surf with Pam Burridge Surf School at Mollymook and be taught by a world champ! Or you can also rent stand-up paddle boards at Narrawallee Inlet and Burrill Lake. Try a scuba course with Dive Adventures in Ulladulla and explore the South Coast’s incredible oceanic plant and animal life.

For the true thrill-seeking family, head toJamberoofor some epic rides and waterslides. You can also head toMUD Mountain Bike Parkfor thrilling biking in the Australian bush just south of Milton and Ulladulla. Both attractions are suitable for all ages and will have you covered for an action-packed day out.  

Younger thrill seekers will love Ulladulla Funland, with laser tag, slides and more to keep the kiddos entertained for hours. The Dunn and Lewis centre in Ulladulla also offers ten-pin bowling and rock climbing! Great for groups and large families. 

Wildlife

Wildlife fans rejoice atShoalhaven Zoo!The zoo is home to some incredible species of animals, and will guarantee encounters with 100s of species including koalas, monkeys, lions, tigers, snakes, stunning birdlife and of course, so many more beautiful, and many native Australian animals. And while you're there, make sure to visit theTreetops ropes course, an incredible ropes course set in the trees and hours of awesome fun - and you can actually hear the lions roaring while you climb! 

Nature Walks

If you’re staying in near Ulladulla, the Flannel Flower walk is a spectacular walk that is easy for the kiddos to manage. The walk overlooks Rennie’s Beach and the Flannel Flowers are exclusive to the Springtime. 

Hiking is a must when visiting the region, and some of our favourite expeditions are very family-friendly and suitable for all ages.One Track for Allis on the northern headland of Ulladulla Harbour and a free public area with four lookouts providing spectacular views of the coast and the Ulladulla surrounds and harbour. Telling the story of the southern Shoalhaven Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal history, from an Aboriginal perspective. The Aboriginal walking track has been constructed so that, from a higher vantage point or the air, the two halves appear as two large goannas, with four carved platforms for some of the best views of the Ulladulla Harbour. 

Mount Bushwalkeris a must and a relatively easyhike through the rugged Budawang Ranges and experiences some of the state’s most glorious bushland views on the Mount Bushwalker track. Gaze in awe at the mountain backdrop, including The Castle and the incredible Shrouded Gods, and be amazed by sight down to the Clyde Gorge below.Pigeon House Mountain,perhaps our most famed hiking spot in the Shoalhaven is an incredible adventure, we recommend ages 12+ with good fitness ability for this one. 

Dining Out

Cupitt’s Estateis a family-run business and we welcome your young ones with open arms. With sprawling lawns to play on, and lots of food and beverage options. Friday evenings and Sundays withLive Musicis particularly a great day for groups and families to visit and enjoy a catch-up over an early dinner or leisurely lunch. We also welcome your furry friends on leads on the lawn. 

We can’t wait to see you this Spring!