For families with young children, there’s nothing like a jaunt to the beach. Some of the best for young families have quiet coves, calm waters or easy snorkelling – all options that abound in Eurobodalla.
We’ve curated a few of the region’s best kid-friendly beaches so all you need to do is grab the crew then slip, slop, slap and go!
Maloneys Beach & Long Beach
North Batemans Bay
On the north side of Batemans Bay, both Maloneys Beach and Long Beach are excellent for families. The 2.3 kilometre stretch at Long Beach doesn’t have lifeguards, but the picnic area at the northern end, tiny waves (usually under half a metre) and peaceful location all add up to an attractive outing with kids. Just around the corner at Maloneys Beach, adjacent to Murramarang National Park, protected coves, rockpools and regular visits by dolphins make for another appealing option, especially when you factor in the kangaroos which are often seen hanging out here on the grassy reserve just off the sand.
Before you leave the area, don’t forget that the one-kilometre long Cullendulla Mangrove Boardwalk, off Myamba Parade. It’s not a swimming option, but there’s an excellent pram-friendly stroll through the marine park sanctuary zone of Cullendulla Creek. Kids will be entertained by the raised boardwalks as well as the opportunity to spot soldier crabs.
Corrigans Beach, Batehaven
Just four kilometres south of Batemans Bay, the excellent amenities and (usually) calm waters make Corrigans Beach a winner with families. Many also like the fact that Corrigan’s Beach Reserve and Accessible Playground is just nearby, as are the shops and food van at Batehaven’s creative community at Edward Road Marketplace.
Candlagan Creek
Mossy Point/Broulee
With its calm waters, low tides and easy snorkelling opportunities, it’s no wonder that Candlagan Creek, Mossy Point is a favourite of local families. Young fish make their home in the Creek’s seagrass and mangroves, and the whole estuary – which stretches five kilometres inland from the northern end of Broulee Beach – is sheltered from the ocean by a wide sandbar. Still, do be careful of the strong currents where the creek and sea meet, and keep little feet away from rocks, where sharp oysters can be attached.
Tomakin Cove, Tomakin
The 200m long Tomakin Cove (often known as Tomaga Cove) is a protected option with an easy descent into shallow water that is ideal for kids. This sandy cove is also an excellent spot for beginner snorkellers, with stingrays and schools of fish adding plenty of excitement. Access the beach at either end or via the walkway off Sunpatch Parade, Tomakin.
Shelly Beach, Moruya Heads
A small, picturesque bay at the mouth of the Moruya River, Shelly Beach offers an attractive picnic area as well as the usual activities kids enjoy on the sand.
Bar Beach, Narooma
With netting protecting it from the roar of the nearby breakwalls, Bar Beach Narooma has a reputation for providing a perfect learn-to-swim environment. (Humans aren’t the only ones to notice this–sealions are often found splashing in the waters of Bar Beach, and snorkellers occasionally see small seahorses.)
Out of the water, a playground, BBQ, toilets and picnic area add to the appeal of Bar Beach.
Billys Beach
Near Mystery Bay
Not far from the pristine beaches of Mystery Bay (itself a wonderful spot for those with young children), the rock pools and attractive pebbles on Billys Beach make for a different yet diverting beach jaunt. Billys is a good spot for boogie boarding, making it appealing for older children too.
