In a region dotted with beaches and forests, headlands and hidden waterways, it’s often hard to separate the “wow” from the merely “wonderful”.
From sweeping landscapes or to unique perspectives on well-known locations, we’ve done the hard yards in this north to south guide to some of the best lookouts across the Eurobodalla region.
Big Bit Lookout
Big skies and a bush setting
14 kilometres north of Batemans Bay along the Princes Highway, the unsealed (but good condition) Big Bit Road is your entry point for big sky views across to the Budawang Ranges and east across Durras Lake. The lookout is four kilometres from the turnoff but the sign on the highway comes up quickly, so keep your eyes peeled. If you reach the Benandarah Service Station you’ll need to double back.
Holmes Lookout
A different take on the Clyde River
Just a short drive from Batemans Bay and set amongst impressive tall gum trees, Holmes Lookout offers a perfect picnic spot overlooking the Clyde River. Views stretch back to the Bay in the southeast, with a bonus sneak peek of the Budawang Ranges to the northwest. Holmes Lookout is also an excellent spot to see a different view of the new 425 metre bridge being built over the Clyde River – a true feat of engineering sitting just 40 metres west of the existing bridge.
Observation Point
Island views from Batehaven
When you’ve finished enjoying a stroll around Batehaven’s newest pop up, Edward Road Marketplace, or one of the many food outlets in Batehaven village, it’s probably time to head up the hill along Observation Avenue to contemplate the views across to Snapper Island from Observation Point. The island, a breeding colony for Little Penguins, is prohibited to land on, although kayakers often enjoy a paddle up to the small cave on the island’s west side. (Fun fact: the cave used to a popular spot for smugglers to drop contraband, throwing it over the side of their boats.)
Back on land, far more legal activities are on offer. Take a stroll down to Corrigans Beach: it’s now connected to Observation Point via an attractive new staircase.
Melville Point, Tomakin
A whale watching hotspot
Melville Point goes by many names. It’s sometimes called Tomakin Point, Burying Point or Gravehead, due to its early settler cemetery. But whatever you call it, there’s no doubt that the sweeping views from here over Barlings Beach, Mossy Point and Broulee Island make this lookout worth a visit.
If you’re due for a swim, Tomakin Cove, just below the lookout and to the south, offers calm, crystal clear waters and an attractive small beach. Back up top, those keen to stay on land should keep an eye out for whales – Melville Point is known as an excellent whale watching location. Geology buffs will also appreciate Melville Point’s importance: the point itself and its adjoining intertidal rock platform are both on the Register of the National Estate.
Mossy Point Anchor Lookout
Boats, bikes and beautiful views
On the south side of the Tomaga River, midway between Tomakin and Broulee, Mossy Point Anchor Lookout offers more than just impressive ocean views. There’s a slice of maritime history here too: an old anchor which once served as a navigation aid was raised from the Tomaga River and sits on display on site. Nearby, Mossy Point Boat Shed is the jumping off point for RegionX, a well-known local kayaking and bike hire business.
Toragy Point, South Head
Whale watching from land in Moruya
The perfect spot for quiet contemplation, Toragy Point provides land-based whale watching at the entrance to the Moruya River at Moruya Heads. But don’t worry if you miss the whale’s southern migration (August to November) – dolphins are also regular visitors (like humans, they are attracted to the waves of the surf beach below). A historic cemetery at Toragy Point adds additional interest. Finish off your visit with a picnic and swim at nearby Shelly Beach.
One Tree Point, Tuross Head
BBQs by the beach
With its stunning coastal views across to Montague Island, seating dotted along the path and easy access to a beach with BBQ facilities and a beach shower, it’s no wonder One Tree Point is a much-loved local lookout. If you aren’t tired of whales yet (could you ever be?), this is another excellent whale watching site.
Bar Rock Lookout, Narooma
Island and inlet views
Site of “Australia Rock” (an Australia shaped rock formation, albeit minus Tasmania) Bar Rock Lookout is a popular spot for photographers and Instagrammers. The easily accessed site provides excellent views over the Wagonga Inlet and across to Montague Island. Look carefully along the break wall and you might see seals sunbaking on the rocks or swimming in the channel.
