For every bustling city, there are underappreciated small towns dotted around the NSW coastline that offer pristine landscapes, outdoor adventures, crystal-clear waters and scenic trails, perfect for travellers who crave variety on their holidays — you just have to know where to look. With sandy, crowd-free beaches and water warmed up to a perfect summer temperature, these under-the-radar spots are the perfect escape from the city. Go snorkelling directly along the pristine shore, enjoy cocktails at sunset, go whale watching or explore the trendy boutiques. Here are some coastal towns in NSW that are poised to become the next big thing — visit now before the crowds catch on.
1. Bermagui
Huddled along the Sapphire Coast is the beautiful coastal town of Bermagui, a hidden gem with pristine beaches, incredible natural wonders, crystal-clear waters, coastal walks and a stellar food scene. Bermagui’s Blue Pool is arguably its crown jewel, a stunning ocean-fed rock pool that’s often touted as one of the most scenic places to swim in the state. The surrounding area is filled with natural wonders, including the striking Camel Rock and the iconic Horse Head Rock. Venture into the nearby Gulaga National Park for stunning coastal trails or head to the Bermagui Beach Hotel for hearty pub meals and live tunes. Skip the tourist-heavy spots in the region, like Jervis Bay and Eden and head out to this vibrant spot before the crowds catch on.
2. Gerringong
If you’re looking to escape the crowds at Kiama this summer, head to the beautiful coastal town of Gerringong, just 10 minutes from its famous neighbour. Here you’ll be met with views of lush rolling hills, turquoise waters and quiet country roads at every turn. Make your way to Werri Beach for excellent surf or just to enjoy the coastline, embark on the famed Kiama Coastal Walk, have a coffee at the Collective Beat, a local hangout with art, homewares, fashion and more or take a drive along the famous Tasman Drive for breathtaking ocean views. Plan a visit to this picture-perfect summer getaway before it goes mainstream with our full weekend guide.
3. Pacific Palms
Offering a tranquil place from the tourist buzz is Pacific Palms, a North Coast gem just waiting to be discovered. The beaches around town are some of the most unspoiled and stunning in the state, like Elizabeth Beach, enveloped by the lush green hills of Booti Booti National Park, perfect for swimming and snorkelling or the remote Shelly Beach with clear emerald waters. For the ideal summer adventure, camp beachside, hike to Whoota Whoota Lookout for gorgeous views of the Great Lakes region, or go on a coastal walk in one of the three national parks surrounding the town. Pacific Palms is an outdoor lover’s paradise with no shortage of things to do in the warmer seasons.
4. Bundeena
The ideal base to explore the majestic Royal National Park, Bundeena lies a stone’s throw from Sydney, making it the perfect accessible day trip option for city dwellers. Offering the perfect blend of lovely beaches, sweeping coastal vistas and tranquil bushland, Bundeena is a summer escape waiting to be found. Try your hand at water sports with kayak rentals, embark on the scenic 8km Bundeena Drive to Little Marley Beach, or take on the challenging 26km Coast Track that starts in Bundeena, or discover the Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail to see some of Sydney’s finest and most underrated art in an intimate setting.
5. Yamba
Most people flock to Byron Bay for the summer, but a short drive south will bring you to the equally pretty — and relatively crowd-free — Yamba. A surfer’s paradise, this coastal gem offers everything its ever-popular neighbour does and then some. Enjoy some of the region’s best coastal walks and beaches with exceptional surf breaks. Explore scenic coastal trails, shop at the Yamba River Markets for fresh produce, local jewellery, clothing, and quirky finds, or cool off with a swim in the ocean pool at Main Beach. For those looking for a unique adventure, the Yuraygir Coastal Walk is a must-do. Yamba is also home to a variety of stellar waterside cafes and restaurants perfect for a cocktail by the beach.
6. Tathra
Nestled between golden beaches and the rolling hills of the hinterland, Tathra is an offbeat coastal escape with a surprisingly stacked list of offerings for every type of traveller. The historic Tathra Wharf is one of the oldest in the country, and a great place to start your trip, offering beautiful views and a snapshot of the town’s rich history. Grab a bite at The Wharf Local, where the views are as good as the food, take a dip in the calm, blue-green waters of Tathra Beach, and for a dose of nature, soak up the sun while hiking the Tathra Headland Walk, enveloped in stunning coastal views. Plan your trip to Tathra here.