The best of the NSW South Coast doesn’t always come with signposts. While most visitors stick to the region’s charming townships, locals know the real treasures lie a little beyond the lush coastline. Venture a little deeper, and you’ll discover Eurobodalla’s hidden gems, bringing you closer to nature and off the beaten path.
From underground cave systems to historic sporting venues, vibrant street art and intimate cultural experiences, these Eurobodalla secret spots offer something far more valuable than a tick on a bucket list — you have memorable experiences to share with family and friends. Just a couple of hours from Sydney and Canberra, you’re just a drive away from adventure. Let’s go!
1. Savour world-class oysters paddling through an oyster tour
The waters around Clyde River aren’t just picturesque — it’s one of the best underrated destinations on the NSW South Coast for couples wanting an intimate escape or a family of foodies. Region X hosts short and half-day kayaking oyster tours, taking you up the river to a 4th-generation oyster farm.
Glide past oyster leases as the morning light catches the water, then pull up alongside working farms to taste different varieties of oysters so fresh they’ve barely left the ocean. Local guides share stories of multi-generational farming families and explain why these pristine estuaries produce some of Australia’s finest oysters.
2. Snorkel through an underwater wonderland from Chain Bay to Archeron Ledge
While most visitors admire Eurobodalla’s coastline from above, those in the know explore the region from a different vantage point. Slip beneath the calm water line at Maloney’s Beach, and delve into a spectacular underwater vista perfect for snorkelling. As one of our favourite things to do in Eurobodalla, it’s now your chance to float above unique rock formations and see rays, starfish, shellfish, abalone and crayfish in their natural habitat.
The relatively calm conditions make this an accessible adventure for people of various swimming abilities. While Chain Bay is just a short drive from Batemans Bay, its surrounding nature makes it feel more remote. Chances are, you’ll have the area all to yourself, making it ideal to spot marine life in their natural ecosystem.
3. effortless big views from Observation Point
Not all Eurobodalla secret spots require expedition-level preparation. The views from Observation Point can be taken at a more leisurely pace by driving or cycling to a higher elevation at Batehaven
Meander along the paths to the viewing platforms which will reward with magnificent views spanning from west to east over Batemans Bay. Take in mountains, bays, islands and oceans from one place. For those keen for a real hike, Observation Point, is the northern trailhead of Munjip Trail, a 15km coastal headland walk.
4. Challenge yourself on the Gulaga Mountain walk
Rising 806 metres above the coast, Gulaga (Mount Dromedary) offers one of the region’s most rewarding bushwalks, steeply climbing along a 5 km return trek and changing vegetation zones from coastal forest to montane woodland.
Gulaga is more than a mountain trail — it’s an area rich in Creation stories, demonstrating the local Yuin people’s deep connection to Country. To truly appreciate the area’s ancient history, consider joining a cultural experience. Options range from guided walks through dreaming tracks with lessons on bush tucker to overnight stays at an Aboriginal camp.
Alternatively, if the trek up Gulaga is too steep, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service offers Aboriginal Cultural Tours at Eurobodalla National Park.
5. Step into cycling history at Mystery Bay Velodrome
Here’s a secret spot in Eurobodalla that catches most visitors by surprise: tucked away at Corunna Point, near Mystery Bay, is a historic velodrome, showing a unique relic of the area’s early 20th-century history. While largely overgrown today, the grass-backed cycling track, built around 1892, once hosted competitive events that drew crowds from across the region. Today, it is a reminder of a charming piece of sporting heritage ripe for a bit of urban exploring.
6. Walk among sculptures in Batemans Bay
Art and nature combine beautifully on the Batemans Bay Sculpture Walk, where contemporary sculptures sit alongside the Clyde River foreshore. This free, self-guided trail transforms a simple waterfront walk into a cultural experience, with works by local and visiting artists adding unexpected visual interest.
New sculptures are installed over time, giving locals a reason to return and visitors a unique experience with each season.
Some pieces interact playfully with the natural setting, while others leave you thinking. It’s an accessible path suitable for all ages. Combine your walk with a meal at one of the nearby cafes, or time it for sunset when the changing light is perfect to add a little drama to your photos.
7. Follow the colour on the Eurobodalla Mural Trail
The region’s charming towns have become outdoor galleries thanks to the Eurobodalla Mural Trail, featuring a growing collection of large-scale artworks brightening buildings from Batemans Bay to Narooma. Local artists have transformed blank walls into vibrant statements, each telling stories connected to the region’s character.
Look for for the new murals on walls and paths celebrating indigenous culture and native wildlife rendered in brilliant colours along Munjip Trail.
Many murals are in town centres near cafes and shops, making them a perfect stop between activities.
Discover Eurobodalla’s hidden gems for yourself
If you’re looking for underrated destinations on the NSW South Coast, Eurobodalla’s local attractions will make sure you have plenty of memories to tell your friends and family. Just a few hours from Sydney and Canberra, you can easily visit the region and enjoy an exciting weekend or week-long holiday. What more of an excuse do you need? Get packing!