
The NSW South Coast has long endeared itself to nature lovers and adventure seekers. From the clear waters and white sand beaches of Jervis Bay to the unspoiled landscapes of Eden, the region offers endless fun to all types of travellers. Yet there are still plenty of hidden gems that remain criminally overlooked. One less touristed destination is the quiet coastal town of Bermagui, which remains something of a well-kept secret, despite being tailor-made for summer. It’s a bit of a drive but those who make the trip will be welcomed with golden beaches, some of the state’s best rock pools, access to year-round outdoor exploration, and a pleasant laidback vibe. Make the most of these sun-soaked summer days with our guide to Bermagui.
Bermagui, NSW

The more obscure or little-known something is, the cooler it becomes, which is certainly true for some of NSW’s best underrated coastal towns. Cushioned along a beautiful harbour and on the edge of Wallaga Lake, Bermagui is located beneath the towering Gulaga (Mt Dromedary), an ancient volcano that last erupted 60 million years ago. What it lacks in five-star luxuries, it makes up for with incredible natural beauty and plenty of adventure. Read on for some of the best things to see, eat, and do in Bermagui.
1. Visit the charming beaches

Some of the most beautiful parts of Bermagui are best accessed from the water. Horseshoe Bay Beach is a fantastic spot for families, conveniently located in the heart of Bermagui with sweeping views of Gulaga in the distance. Surfers can make their way to Bearers Beach, a photogenic spot with excellent waves and refreshing blue waters. The southern end of the beach is also dog-friendly. Haywards Beach is another frequented surfing spot with great surf and coastal walks. Looking for some extra peace and quiet? The Bermagui River will give you just that and access to fishing, boating, and kayaking.
2. Check out the incredible natural wonders

Bermagui is best known for its two stunning natural wonders — Camel Rock and Horse Head Rock. Shaped distinctly like a camel, Camel Rock is an ancient rock formation, made up of folded 470 million-year-old turbidite beds, formed by ancient underwater avalanches. It boasts a dedicated viewing platform and picnic area, offering panoramic ocean views. Equally stunning is the photographer-favourite Horse Head Rock, a 500 million-year-old rock formation that resembles a pony’s head.
3. Eat at the local cafes and restaurants

The Sapphire Coast is an under-the-radar foodie destination but well worth exploring. Bermagui’s main street is lined with bars, cafes, and restaurants with a prime view of the picturesque Horseshoe Bay. The Bermagui Beach Hotel is a popular local spot dishing out classic pub food, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere. Other popular local favourites include Bermi’s Beachside Cafe for breakfast, coffee, and good views, Eurolicious for wholesome food and a European vibe, and Sundeck in the Fishermen’s Wharf Complex for a stacked menu and views of the Bermagui harbour. For a more elegant experience, check out Mimosa Wines Restaurant serving locally sourced food and fine wine.
4. Swim in the famous Blue Pool

Nestled among rugged cliffs and serene coastal scenery, Bermagui’s iconic rockpool is one of the most famous natural swimming spots in NSW and a must-do in town. The gem-hued Blue Pool perfectly mirrors the surrounding ocean waters and the clear blue skies above — sometimes a striking azure, other times a soft yellow, and even a delicate pink at sunset. While not exactly a hidden gem, it’s widely regarded as one of the best ocean pools in Australia so make sure to stop by and find out what all the fuss is about.
5. Shop at the local markets and boutiques

Bermagui boasts its fair share of local trinket shops, vintage stores, boutiques, and markets if you enjoy a stroll around town and collecting kitschy souvenirs. The Bermagui Makers And Growers Market is held every Thursday at the Bermagui Country Club and offers farm fresh produce, hot meals, baked goods, accessories and more. Head to Bermagui Mudworks Pottery and Cafe for a cup of excellent coffee and enjoy the local works of art at the gallery. Local boutiques to visit include By The Sea Shore for homewares and furnishings, Bermagui Surf Shop for all your surfing needs, and Nested on Wallaga for gifts and homewares.
6. Go on a coastal walk

It’s hard to resist the call of outdoor adventure in a place that’s made for Instagram. Start your day early with the Bermagui Coastal Walk and enjoy 18km of wildly beautiful coastal landscapes. Stretching from Cuttagee Beach in the south to Wallaga Lake in the north, the walk meanders past magnificent coastline, lookouts, and cosy eateries if you want to stop for a while and recharge. For something short but not lacking in impact, stroll the 1.5km Camel Rock to Murunna Point Walking Track that extends from Camel Rock Surf Beach to Murunna Point. For something a bit more challenging, tackle the 2-day Mystery Bay to Bermagui Walk which offers wild vistas and secluded beaches.
The best time to visit Bermagui
The good news is that there is no bad time to visit Bermagui. The summer months from December to February are perfect for pleasant weather, warm waters, and colourful skies though you might have to deal with more crowds than usual. Peak whale-watching season is between August to November so plan your trip accordingly. Read more about Bermagui and find accommodation options here.
Getting there
Bermagui is a 5-hour drive from Sydney and about 3.5 hours from Canberra. Alternatively, you can fly into Merimbula Airport and rent a car for the hour-long drive to Bermagui. For a more adventurous route, you can take a train from Central Station and switch two train lines and one bus for Bermagui but be prepared for a nearly 9-hour long journey. Plan your trip on Transport NSW.