Batemans bay
Batemans Bay is the northern gateway to Eurobodalla, with Canberra city a scenic two-hour drive to the west.
A bustling commercial centre on the south coast of New South Wales with a relaxed coastal atmosphere, Batemans Bay is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding villages, forests, national parks, beaches and waterways of Eurobodalla.
The town flags the end of the Clyde River’s long journey to the ocean where it gently spills out into a large and beautiful bay. The town originally clustered on the banks of the river but has gradually spread beyond the river mouth to the coves and headlands that enclose and protect the bay.
Today, Batemans Bay offers a multitude of water and nature-based activities and with its temperate climate, national parks, and spectacular waterways, “The Bay” is a popular holiday destination all year round.
The bay is particularly beautiful, dotted with islands and ringed with sandy beaches that are frequented by dolphins and marine life. Snapper island is a stone throw from Corrigans beach and, like the larger Tollgate Islands beyond, is a protected reserve home to vulnerable birdlife. A fantastic view over the whole bay can be captured from Holmes lookout, in the Clyde River National Park.
Things To Do In Batemans Bay
There are so many things to do in Batemans Bay, you are spoilt for choice! Fishing, surfing, jet skiing, kite surfing and swimming are popular water-based activities with locals and visitors.
A Merinda river cruise is a perfect way to see the stunning bay and the Clyde River as it stretches back toward the mountains. A kayak tour through the mangroves is a unique way to explore the river and bay. Try an oyster kayak tour to the oyster leases and sample the molluscs that have made Batemans Bay famous in the seafood world.
On land, cycle paths, bushwalks and scenic drives are a great way to explore the area. The 27 hole championship golf course at Catalina is one of the most picturesque courses on the south coast and welcomes visiting players.
For families, cuddling a wombat or patting a python at Birdland Animal Park is a huge hit with young children. A walk through the extraordinary collection of displays at the heritage museum is a fascinating way to learn about local history and fun for the whole family.
The fantastic inclusive playground at Corrigans Beach Reserve is a magnet for families set on a large grassy reserve with a cycle path, picnic tables, BBQs and calm bay beach. In peak season the annual Bells Carnival sets up on the adjacent reserve and is a feature family event for every summer holiday.
Taste The South Coast
At the heart of the Australia’s Oyster Coast, the Clyde River flows into Batemans Bay, and is one of several Eurobodalla waterways that support a world class oyster industry producing Sydney rock, Pacific and native Angasi oysters.
The Clyde River is one of the last major rivers to have not been dammed and, as a result, has the cleanest waters of any river in Eastern Australia. This is home to some of the best oysters in the world – a claim based on the quality of the waters in which they grow.
These distinctive river-fed molluscs can be sampled on the menus in many Batemans Bay restaurants. You can buy your own fresh from the farm gate or take an oyster tasting tour on a kayak for a unique farm to plate experience.
Learn more about the Eurobodalla Food Trail.
Satisfy your hunger
For fresh local seafood head to The Boatshed on the southern foreshore where you can also take a gentle Merinda Cruise on the Clyde to the historic village of Nelligen.
For casual dining with water views, stroll on the Mara Mia walkway for a selection of dining options with stunning views over the bay.
Take a drive and discover relaxed coastal cafes and eateries, serving an abundance of local fare from all day breakfasts and tapas-style dinners, to local seafood and homegrown grass-fed lamb.
More to explore
Shops, cafes, sculptures and green space enhance the waterfront in the town centre.
Take a walk or cycle on the shared path that meanders past the marina, golf club, Birdland Animal Park and on to Batehaven and the large park at Corrigans Reserve. Calm swimming beaches, rock platforms surround the expansive bay with views of the sentinel Tollgate Islands from all aspects. Stingrays and pelicans are regular visitors around the boat ramps and the iconic Boatshed.
A ten minute drive south of Batemans Bay is the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden, Mogo Wildlife Park and the charming village of Mogo with its colonial gold mining history and thriving arts and crafts scene. You’ll find local souvenirs, artwork, handmade goods, jewellery, pottery, antiques, homewares and some tasty treats.
To the north, the popular beach side suburbs of Long Beach and Maloneys Beach offer protected swimming beaches and great snorkelling. Just a few minutes further north of Batemans Bay, you will find yourself in a lush forest of spotted gum and burrawangs, as you head toward the quiet village of South Durras. The seaside village is surrounded by deep forest, and the pristine beaches of the Murramarang National Park. It is home to many native animals including kangaroos, wallabies, and birds. The national park coastline is known for its fascinating ancient rock formations and a network of walking tracks.
The Coast Road
Take the winding coast road (Tourist Drive 7) and discover hidden pockets and coves along the south coast from Batemans Bay.
A trip along Beach Road and the tourist drive will lead you to the hamlets and communities hugging the picturesque coastline as it stretches south. Head past Surf Beach and Malua Bay and turn off the drive to find Rosedale, Guerilla Bay, Mossy Point and Broulee.
The tourist drive passes the regional airport and terminates at the riverside town of Moruya. You can take the return trip to Batemans Bay via the Princes Highway. The loop drive will take you through the bustling shopping village of Mogo and past the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens at Deep Creek Dam.
History
The Batemans Bay Heritage Museum, located adjacent to the town’s Water Gardens, is a fascinating look into the history of Batemans Bay and the surrounding district. The extensive collection is researched and curated by volunteer members of the Clyde River and Batemans Bay Historical Society. Collection themes at the Museum include costume, education, healthcare, domestic life, forestry and timber tales, as well as crime and punishment in the district.
Top 10 things to do in Batemans Bay
- Explore the mural trail and sculpture walk
- Capture the view over Batemans Bay from Observation Point or Holmes Lookout
- Go Kitesurfing or jet skiing at Corrigans beach
- Explore the ancient geological sites in Murramarang National Park
- Take a trip up the Clyde on the Merinda Cruise
- Kayak tours to Wray Street Oyster Shed
- Go diving or snorkelling
- Play a round of golf at the 27 hole championship course at the Catalina Club
- Hug some trees and learn about native plants at Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens
- Feed a giraffe at Mogo Wildlife Park
Learn more about Batemans Bay and the surrounding area
The Clyde River… A Yuin perspective
At home at sea
The Clyde River is a provider. This gorgeous and gentle river has nourished the Yuin people for thousands of years and now brings together people from all walks of life. Experience the power of the Clyde River with Warrick from Region X Tours.
Warrick Smith spends his days kayaking the Eurobodalla, helping visitors connect to the local Yuin culture. He shares his story in this short film…
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