Enveloped by the lush hinterland of Noosa National Park, with emerald beaches and sparkling lakes, Noosa offers one of Australia’s most luxurious coastal escapes. If you’re keen to chase that same sun-washed lifestyle closer to home, there’s no shortage of beach towns to choose from right here in NSW. One that fits the bill effortlessly is Narooma, perched on the far South Coast and wrapped up in some of the state’s most glittering blue water. Aquamarine bays, glassy inlets and long stretches of uncrowded shoreline set the scene at one of NSW’s most fashionable seaside getaways, with a stellar food scene to match. From swimming in crystal clear waters to blissful coastal walks and brunch by the water, here’s how to make the most of Narooma this summer.
Things to do in Narooma in summer
Narooma is at its best in summer, with vivid shades of blue as far as the eye can see and plenty of coastal walks and natural wonders to explore. Aside from the scenery, travellers can look forward to a bevy of coastal chic cafes and restaurants, spectacular wildlife experiences, luxe boutiques and stylish places to stay for a few nights by the water.
Start your summer adventure at Wagonga Inlet, a picturesque, calm estuary famous for its marine life, glassy waters, and waterside activities like kayaking, paddle boarding and swimming. From the inlet’s edge, the Mill Bay Boardwalk is the natural next stop. The flat, wheelchair-accessible walk can take anywhere from a quick 30-minute loop to a longer, 2-hour wander, winding past mangroves, breezy seafood spots and open stretches of the bay before spilling out toward Bar Beach. Just off the coast from Narooma, Montague Island is a standout day trip. Guided tours offer close-up encounters with seals and seabirds, with whale watching during migration season, or you can explore the island on foot and take in sweeping views from the historic lighthouse.
The coastal oasis is best known for its beaches, starting with Narooma Surf Beach, also called Main Beach, just minutes from the town centre and patrolled through summer. A short stroll away, the Glasshouse Rocks, estimated to be between 440 and 510 million years old, form a dramatic geological formation with distinctive patterns, and one of several natural landmarks scattered along Narooma’s coastline.
Bar Beach offers a change of pace, with two distinct sections on offer. One side faces the open ocean with famous surf, while the other is located behind the breakwater, with calmer conditions perfect for swimming and snorkelling on warm summer days. Also worth adding to your beach-hopping day is Camel Rock, one of the South Coast’s most visually arresting spots. From the viewing platform, a coastal walking track leads toward Murunna Point, with elevated lookouts boasting wide ocean views. Right beside the beach sits Australia Rock, a distinctive rock formation shaped famously like mainland Australia, and a well-known stop for photos.
Other ways to enjoy the town
Feeling peckish after all that exploring? Narooma’s growing mix of well-regarded eateries, casual cafes and waterfront spots will keep you well fed on your trip. Head to Kattalina’s on the Marina for delicious coffee and breakfast by the water, or make a beeline to Surfbeach Cafe for hearty brunch staples including burgers, fish and chips and French toast. Other local favourites around town are Bound To Earth Espresso Bar for toasties and baked treats, the longstanding institution, Quarterdeck for amazing views and tasty cocktails, The Inlet for fresh seafood and hot chips, and Merivale‘s Lynch’s for delicious pub classics. Narooma and its surrounds are well-known for oyster growing, so don’t forget to book an oyster farm tour while you’re there.
Narooma’s town centre is compact and easy to explore, with a handful of boutiques and local stores scattered along the main streets. Head to Seaside Collective for coastal clothing and swimwear, Mister and Floss for gifts, homewares and accessories, and She Fashion Narooma for quality women’s clothing. Don’t forget to pencil in a visit to Narooma Rotary Markets, held on the fourth Sunday of the month featuring a mix of stalls selling food, clothing, plants, books, coffee and more. Read more about Narooma and find accomodation options here.
Getting there
Narooma is a scenic 5-hour drive from Sydney and perfect for a summer road trip if you want to explore the coastline along the way. You can also fly into Moruya Airport and hire a car for the final 45 minutes. If you’re travelling by public transport, daily coach services run from Sydney to Narooma, though the journey is longer. You could also consider taking a train south from Sydney and connecting with a regional bus for the final leg. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.