Brooding winter days are just around the corner, and you’re probably starting to plan your escape to warmer pastures. For many, the change of seasons signals a time to hibernate — but that means missing out on everything off-season travel has to offer: unique experiences, crisp weather, and all the usual highlights with no wall-to-wall summer crowds. Framed by the wild blue expanse of the largest ocean on Earth, Tathra is our pick for the perfect off-season escape. Surrounded by stunning national parks, this seaside town offers coastal trails, wild beaches, whale watching, and consistently pleasant weather even as the seasons shift. Here’s why you should consider this unsung gem for your next getaway.
Tathra, NSW
Far enough to feel remote, but really just a few hours from the city, Tathra is a place of incredible natural beauty. While many travellers head straight for Eden or Merimbula, savvy travellers keep their eyes on this less-visited but equally charming alternative. Home to the only deep-sea timber wharf on the east coast of Australia, Tathra also boasts incredible seafood, peaceful bushwalks, and pristine views in every direction. You can expect a tranquil experience in the cooler months with plenty of sunny days on the menu. Here’s what to see, eat, and do in Tathra.
What to see and do: The historic wharf, coastal walks and local markets
Ask anyone about Tathra, and chances are they’ll point to the wharf. Built in the 1860s, this ever-popular spot draws photographers, fishing enthusiasts, divers and snorkelers. Even if you prefer to steer clear of the water, it’s an excellent spot to soak up the local atmosphere and enjoy the gorgeous coastal scenery the town has to offer. Grab a bite from the Tathra Wharf Café, settle in, and enjoy sunset views that are even better in winter.
Kianinny Bay is a calm, sheltered spot known for its pristine blue water and friendly resident stingrays — perfect for snorkelling and swimming. The water stays pleasantly warm even in winter, and chances are you’ll have it all to yourself, just like the nearby, picturesque Tathra Beach. For more outdoor adventures, Mimosa Rocks National Park, with rainforest pockets and historic sites, and Bournda National Park with its dramatic cliffs and walking tracks, are just a stone’s throw from town.
Other low-impact, high-reward activities include the short but stunning Tathra Headland Walk, with sweeping coastal views and viewing platforms, ideal for spotting whales between May and November. For something more challenging, tackle the Kangarutha Walking Track — a rugged trail with lovely little beaches and sandy bays.
Other local favourites include mountain biking on nearby trails, teeing off at Tathra Beach Country Club with kangaroos for company, and browsing the markets at Tanja Hall, conveniently located between Tathra and Bermagui. Here, you’ll find second-hand treasures, fresh produce, standout local art and retro gems.
Where to eat: Waterside cafes, restaurants and bars
Start your day with a coffee from Gidget Coffee Van by the beach, then head to the quaint and modern Wild Orchid Café for wholesome, seasonal food and another excellent brew. Salt Café and Surfshop is the place to go for matcha lattes and baked treats, while other breakfast favourites include Tathra Bakery and Café, and The Wharf Local, right by the town’s iconic wharf.
Oysters are a big deal here, and Tathra Oysters, grown in nearby Nelson Lake, are some of the best you’ll find. Perched above the sea, the Tathra Hotel has been a local favourite for over 100 years. Come for the views, stay for the live music and hearty meals. For something more laidback, Drift Tathra dishes up wood-fired pizza, craft brews and relaxed, friendly vibes.
Why Tathra is worth visiting this season
Travelling in the cooler months might seem counterintuitive, but hear us out. With a mild climate and plenty of sunshine, winter in Tathra feels more like a soft reset than a seasonal shutdown, making it the perfect year-round getaway. Off-season perks also include empty lookouts, crisp air, whale sightings, more palatable accommodation costs, and a slower pace that actually feels like a holiday, without the long-haul flight. Accomodation options include the tranquil Kianinny Bush Cottages, conveniently located a 5-minute drive from the beach or the Tathra Beach Eco Camp if you want to be in the heart of nature.
Read more about Tathra and start planning your warm-weather getaway here.
Getting there
Tathra is about a 6-hour drive from Sydney. You can also fly into Merimbula Airport with Regional Express or Qantas, then rent a car for the scenic 20-minute drive north. There are no direct bus services to Tathra, but you can take a bus to Eden or Merimbula and hire a car from there.