Guide to Shoalhaven Heads New South Wales Australia

Shoalhaven Heads is a picturesque village at the mouth of the Shoalhaven River on the New South Wales South Coast, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquil charm.

Known For

• Stunning beaches, like Seven Mile Beach
• Shoalhaven River and natural beauty

Shoalhaven is steeped in history, with deep ties to the Dharawal and Wodi-Wodi peoples, who were the original custodians of this land. European settlement began in the early 19th century, with Alexander Berry establishing the historic Coolangatta Estate. Today, the estate stands as a testament to the area’s colonial past, offering a window into its heritage through restored convict-built structures and lush vineyards.

The town’s location at the gateway to Seven Mile Beach National Park makes it a favorite among visitors, providing easy access to natural wonders while maintaining a sense of peaceful seclusion. Seven Mile Beach offers more than just picturesque scenery.

Start your day with a sunrise stroll along the expansive shoreline, where the sound of waves and the soft morning light create a serene atmosphere. For the more adventurous, the consistent swell of the ocean makes this beach a prime spot for surfers, with surf schools available for beginners eager to ride their first wave.

Seven Mile Beach National Park is an essential stop for nature enthusiasts. This protected area features easy walking trails that wind through coastal forests, opening up to stunning views of the beach and surrounding wetlands. Birdwatchers will find a wealth of species to spot, including shorebirds like curlews and sandpipers. The park’s picnic areas are perfect for families and groups to enjoy an alfresco meal amid nature.

Where To Stay

Visitors to Shoalhaven Heads have a range of accommodation options.

Bangalay Luxury Villas is one of Shoalhaven Heads’ premier accommodations, offering stylish, self-contained villas set among lush greenery just steps from Seven Mile Beach. Each villa is designed with comfort and sustainability in mind, featuring high-end finishes, private decks, and open-plan layouts.

For a stay steeped in history, Coolangatta Estate offers unique accommodations within its restored convict-built cottages. This heritage property combines old-world charm with modern amenities, providing a memorable experience for guests. Surrounded by vineyards, the estate is perfect for wine lovers who want to enjoy tastings and pairings just steps from their rooms.

Holiday Haven Shoalhaven Heads offers a mix of cabins, powered sites, and unpowered camping spots right by the Shoalhaven River. This relaxed riverside holiday park features excellent amenities, including a pool, barbecue facilities, and a children’s playground, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy. The park’s location provides easy access to both the river and the beach, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re looking for luxury or a casual getaway, Shoalhaven Heads provides a comfortable base to explore the surrounding area.

Things To Do

The Shoalhaven River is a defining feature of the region and offers countless ways to enjoy its calm, flowing waters. Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities, giving visitors a unique vantage point of the surrounding landscapes. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, local operators provide river cruises that showcase the natural beauty and history of the area.

Fishing enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice, with the river offering an abundance of bream, flathead, and whiting. The nearby Comerong Island, accessible by a small car ferry, is a peaceful spot for birdwatching or enjoying quiet riverside moments.

Coolangatta Estate

Coolangatta Estate is more than just a winery—it’s a slice of Australian history. The estate offers guided tours that take visitors through its convict-built structures, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. After exploring, relax with a wine tasting session featuring award-winning varietals produced on-site. The estate’s restaurant also offers locally inspired dishes, making it a fantastic place to linger and soak in the scenic surroundings.

For history buffs, the Shoalhaven Heads Heritage Walk is another must-do. This self-guided tour features plaques and markers detailing the town’s development, from its Aboriginal roots to its transformation into a vibrant coastal village.

Experience Local Art and Culture

Shoalhaven Heads is home to a thriving arts community, with galleries and workshops that highlight local talent. The Heads Gallery showcases works by regional artists, including paintings, ceramics, and textiles. Visitors can also participate in creative workshops, from pottery classes to landscape painting sessions inspired by the area’s breathtaking vistas.

Seasonal events, such as the Shoalhaven Coast Winter Wine Festival, bring together food, wine, and music, creating memorable experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Play a Round of Golf

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the Shoalhaven Heads Golf Club, an 18-hole course that combines challenging play with beautiful views of the coast and river. The well-maintained greens and fairways cater to players of all skill levels, while the club’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a welcoming spot for families and casual players.

Relax and Unwind

For those seeking a slower pace, Shoalhaven Heads has plenty of options to relax and recharge. Beachfront yoga classes are a popular way to connect with the tranquil surroundings, while the local spas and wellness centers offer massages and treatments designed to leave you feeling refreshed.

Enjoy the simple pleasures of a lazy afternoon with a picnic at the river’s edge, or catch a spectacular sunset from one of the many vantage points around town. Shoalhaven Heads’ peaceful ambiance and natural beauty provide the perfect setting to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Eat & Drink

Shoalhaven Heads is part of a renowned wine region, home to some of the South Coast’s best wineries. Coolangatta Estate, a historic vineyard, offers wine tastings paired with a side of history. Two Figs Winery, perched on a hill overlooking the river, is known for its boutique offerings and stunning vistas. Mountain Ridge Wines completes the trio, combining fine wine with a welcoming atmosphere and hearty meals.

For dining, Bangalay Dining is a standout, showcasing local produce and native ingredients in its modern Australian menu. From fresh seafood to artisan coffee, the village’s cafes and eateries emphasize quality and a connection to the region.

For a more relaxed dining experience, Shoalhaven Heads features several charming cafés and casual spots:

• Jerry Bailey Bar & Grill at Heads Bowlo: Located within the local bowling club, this venue offers a casual dining experience with a menu featuring pub favorites and daily specials. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal while engaging in community activities.
• Heads Hotel: Overlooking the Shoalhaven River, Heads Hotel provides a relaxed setting for patrons to enjoy a range of dishes, from seafood to classic pub fare. The outdoor seating area is particularly popular during warmer months.

Exploring the surrounding areas can lead to delightful culinary discoveries:

• Mountain Ridge Wines: A short drive away, this winery not only offers tastings but also features a restaurant with panoramic views of the countryside. The menu emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, making it a worthwhile excursion for food and wine enthusiasts.
• The Butterfactory Restaurant: Located in nearby Pyree, this establishment is set within a historic building and offers a diverse menu that caters to various dietary preferences. The rustic charm and quality cuisine make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Getting There

Shoalhaven Heads is easily accessible by car, located just off the Princes Highway. The scenic drive from Sydney takes just over two hours, while travelers from Canberra can reach the village in approximately two and a half hours. Public transport options include trains to Bomaderry (Nowra) Station, with connecting bus services to Shoalhaven Heads.

Exploring Nearby Towns

Shoalhaven Heads is ideally situated to serve as a base for exploring the vibrant and scenic towns of the Shoalhaven region. Each nearby town offers its own unique attractions, making day trips an excellent way to discover the area’s rich cultural, historical, and natural offerings.

Berry

Just a 15-minute drive northwest of Shoalhaven Heads, Berry is a charming heritage town known for its boutique shopping, artisanal goods, and delectable food scene.

• Explore Queen Street: The town’s main street is lined with specialty shops, from homewares to handmade jewelry, and plenty of spots to pick up unique souvenirs.
• Taste Local Delights: Visit the Berry Donut Van for their famous hot cinnamon donuts or enjoy farm-to-table meals at The Garden Berry.
• Berry Markets: Held on the first Sunday of every month, these markets showcase local crafts, produce, and gourmet foods.

Gerringong

A scenic 20-minute drive north along the coast will bring you to Gerringong, a seaside town known for its surf culture and rolling green hills.

• Werri Beach: This pristine beach is perfect for surfing, swimming, or simply relaxing. A coastal walking track connects Gerringong to nearby Kiama, offering stunning ocean views along the way.
• Crooked River Wines: Enjoy a wine tasting or a meal overlooking the vineyard. This popular winery also hosts live music events.
• Shops and Cafes: Explore quirky boutiques and cozy cafes like The Blue Goose, known for its fresh coffee and hearty breakfasts.

Nowra

A 25-minute drive south, Nowra is the commercial hub of the Shoalhaven region, offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions.

• Shoalhaven Regional Gallery: Dive into the local art scene with rotating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists.
• Nowra Wildlife Park: Get up close with native Australian animals, including kangaroos, wombats, and koalas.
• Adventure Park: For thrill-seekers, Treetops Adventure Nowra offers zip-lining and rope courses in a lush forest setting.

Kangaroo Valley

About 40 minutes inland from Shoalhaven Heads, Kangaroo Valley is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs.

• Hampden Bridge: This iconic sandstone suspension bridge is a must-see landmark and a popular photo spot.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle along the Kangaroo River, surrounded by towering escarpments and lush rainforest.
• Village Charm: The valley’s small village offers boutique shops, cafes, and the famous Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop.

Milton

Further south, about a 45-minute drive from Shoalhaven Heads, lies Milton, a historic town with a lively arts and food scene.

• Cultural Experiences: Visit Milton Theatre, a restored heritage building that hosts live music and performances.
• Dining: Try St Isidore, a farm-to-table restaurant celebrated for its innovative menu and scenic setting.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore nearby Pigeon House Mountain, a challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views of the coastline.

Huskisson

A 40-minute drive southeast takes you to Huskisson, the gateway to Jervis Bay, renowned for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

• Jervis Bay Cruises: Join a dolphin or whale-watching tour to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
• Hyams Beach: Known for having some of the whitest sand in the world, this beach is a must-visit.
• Dining by the Bay: Indulge in fresh seafood at Huskisson Hotel or 5 Little Pigs café, both offering fantastic views.

Shoalhaven Heads NSW and its surrounding towns provide endless opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you’re wandering through quaint village streets, hiking coastal trails, or enjoying local wines, the region offers an experience for every type of traveler.