Narooma NSW is a little slice of heaven on the NSW far south coast. With pristine blue waterways, it’s a popular destination for photographers, fishermen or families who want to chill out or surf spectacular beaches. Unfortunately, our schedule only allowed for two days. So sadly, we didn’t get to see and do all we wanted; how I would have loved to stay longer.

History

Narooma takes its name from the Aboriginal language meaning “clear blue waters”, and with the intense blues and greens of the area’s waters, it’s not hard to see why. After discovering gold in nearby Central Tilba, the town sprung up in 1883. A school was added in 1886, and the post office followed in 1889. The oyster industry was established in 1900. The Narooma Oyster Festival is held in May each year – celebrating the heart of Rock Oyster country.

Getting There

From Sydney, it’s a pleasant 350km drive to Narooma, following the coast along the Princes Highway. The route is 220km via the Kings and Princes Highways from Canberra or 684kms from Melbourne via the Princes Hwy. While the journey from Melbourne is longer, you get to drive through Lakes Entrance, Eden, and Bermagui. All are great seaside towns and deserving of an overnight visit.

Attractions and Landmarks

While we were there for the photography, Narooma had plenty to keep everyone happy.

• Cycle or stroll along the Mill Bay Boardwalk and spot the stingrays, dolphins or seals
• Hit a few balls at the Narooma Golf Club and the famous Hogans Hole.
• A stroll along the surf beach will take you to Glasshouse Rocks
• At Bar Beach, you can enjoy a swim or snorkel in its sheltered waters where NZ and Australian fur seals also enjoy a sunbake
• Forsters Bay is perfect for kayaking around the oyster farms on the western side of town
• Bermagui – Camel Rock and Horse Head rock – only 30 mins away
• Montague Island. It boasts a historic lighthouse and nature reserve. If only we could have gone there. Because there is no bridge, you have to take a ferry – and none were running that day due to a heavy swell, so we missed out. Tours are available from Montague Island Tours or Narooma Charters

Accommodation

We stayed at the Narooma Golfers Lodge, which was very good. While not golfers, we picked it for its views, price and the easy walk to the Golf Club Bistro. They offer clean and comfortable one and two-bedroom apartments at very reasonable prices. Airbnb also has loads of accommodation options in the area, and there are plenty of hotels and motels.