Avid hikers don’t need to hang up their boots just because winter is on the way. In fact, seaside walks in the colder months are known to improve mood and reduce stress — so now is the perfect time to head out and get exploring. There’s no shortage of coastal trails around town — from the famous Bouddi Coastal Walk to the stunning White Sands Walk, these tracks take on a little extra magic this time of the year. Looking for somewhere to shake off the pre-winter blues? The Murramarang South Coast Walk is the one to tackle. With towering forests, secluded beaches, and glassy blue water, it’s the kind of track that’ll keep you wandering for hours without wanting to stop. Here’s what you need to know about the coastal trail and why you should visit now.
Murramarang South Coast Walk
The 34-kilometre, multi-day coastal walk through Murramarang National Park might sound like a challenge, but the rewards are well worth it. And if you’re short on time, you can also break it into more manageable, shorter sections depending on what you’re most keen to see. Either way, you’re sure to find lots of enchantment along the coastline.
One of the NSW South Coast’s best-kept secrets, this beautiful trail has all the trappings of a quintessential coastal walk in Australia — forests, stunning beaches, native wildlife, and long stretches of coastline with barely anyone around. The temperatures are generally mild with plenty of sunshine, so you can still enjoy the water. From May to November, whales migrate up and down the coast, so if you’re thinking of doing the walk, now’s the time.
Highlights of the walk
The trail runs from Pretty Beach, south of Ulladulla, to Maloneys Beach just north of Batemans Bay. Along the way, you’ll meander past forests of spotted gums and burrawangs that grow all the way to the beach — something you’ll only see in a handful of places across Australia. Keep an eye out for Aboriginal sites along the route, as well as eastern grey kangaroos lounging near the beaches and picnic spots. You can also expect ample seal and dolphin sightings.
The sprawling Murramarang National Park is packed with hidden coves and quiet bays, many of which you can have all to yourself. Pause for a moment along the way, and you might even catch a glimpse of a whale on its annual migration. And if you enjoy birdwatching, you’ll be in good company here. The park is home to more than 90 bird species — from sea eagles and peregrine falcons to shearwaters, petrels, and even a penguin colony, so keep your eyes — and ears — peeled.
Key features of the Murramarang South Coast Walk
Where: Murramarang South Coast Walk
Walking distance: 34km one way
Total time: 3 days
Starts from: Pretty Beach
Ends at: Maloneys Beach
Location: Between Ulladulla and Batemans Bay, south coast of New South Wales
Parking: Available at Pretty Beach, Pebbly Beach, Depot Beach, South Durras, and Maloneys Beach.
Find the full map for the Murramarang South Coast Walk, along with a variety of guided and self-guided experiences on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
How to get there
The quickest way to get to Murramarang National Park from Sydney is by car, and the drive takes around 3 hours. The off-season winter months between May to November are an excellent time to visit, with plenty of birdwatching and whale activity, plus mild coastal weather without the summer crowds.