This is a continuation from Tathra Part 1.
My partner and I did a two week road trip from Melbourne to the Blue Mountains in New South Wales last year in November 2023. We had been saying for 15 years that we wanted to see the Blue Mountains, but it was never the right time, things would come up that stopped us from going like not enough money, bushfires and floods in New South Wales.
We stopped in Tathra for a couple of hours, here are the places we stopped at.
Wallagoot Gap
Discover Wallagoot Gap, a hidden gem within Bournda National Park on the NSW Far South Coast. Accessible via a short 15-minute walk from Wallagoot car park, this stunning gorge boasts a 50-meter beach flanked by towering cliffs.
Getting There And Cost
While the journey to Tathra involves a 5-hour drive from Sydney or 3 hours from Canberra, entrance to Bournda National Park requires a $8 vehicle fee.
Follow the well-marked trail from the car park to the wooden platform overlooking Wallagoot Gap, then descend to the beach below. Though swimming is possible, lifeguards are absent, so caution is advised. Explore Tathra’s other attractions, from pristine beaches to scenic bushwalks, and savor the fresh seafood offerings. Visit during summer for the best experience.
Bournda Beach
Bournda Beach, spanning 2 kilometers, is flanked by Bournda Lagoon and Bondi Lake.
Location: Found in Bournda National Park, accessed via Bournda Road off Sapphire Coast Road, about 19 minutes north of Merimbula and 13 minutes south of Tathra.
Swimming: While swimming is possible, caution is advised due to lack of lifeguards and a rip current toward the north end.
Fishing: Local anglers frequent the inlet and sandbar, with catches like bream, snapper, mullet, and flathead, especially near Bournda Lagoon.
Picnic Area: At the end of Bournda Road, a spacious car park offers picnic facilities, toilets, and a rainwater tank, with a short walk to the beach.
Experience Bournda Beach’s waves and explore Bournda Lagoon & Wallagoot Lake through stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.
Explore nature on two wheels.
Tathra offers thrilling XC mountain biking adventures with more than 55km of trails. The community-built Bundadung and Fire Shed trails cater to all skill levels, winding through coastal bushland up to 137m above sea level. Enjoy recreational rides, club races, and the renowned Tathra MTB Enduro event. I started my journey at Tathra Beach Country Club.
Guided E-Bike Tours
To hire a bike go to Sapphire Coast Guiding Co
Tathra Mountain Bike Club
To join a mountain bike club Tathra MTB Club
National Parks
National parks offer the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. Tathra is surrounded by national parkland, providing a natural playground for various outdoor activities like bushwalking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, surfing, swimming, and birdwatching.
The forests are inhabited by kangaroos, swamp wallabies, potoroos, bandicoots, gliders, and other marsupials. Additionally, a small koala population resides in the forests between Tathra and Bermagui. Goannas, blue-tongue lizards, and snakes are also part of the ecosystem, alongside kookaburras and lyrebirds. Furthermore, the sight of sea eagles soaring along the coast adds to the allure of this wild and stunning coastline.
Only a brief drive north of Tathra, this park presents a coastal haven suitable for the whole family. Spanning a 20km coastline, it features lagoons, sea caves, forests, and headlands awaiting exploration. Under the elegant canopy of spotted gums, the forest floor teems with diverse life.
Situated south of Tathra along the southern edge of Kianinny Bay, this park offers a glimpse into pristine estuarine wetlands, freshwater lakes, sandy beaches, and ancient woodlands adorned with banksia, bloodwood, and honey myrtle trees.
Located a 40-minute drive south of Tathra, this park stands as the largest national park on the Sapphire Coast, boasting 47km of untouched coastline to discover. It’s renowned for the iconic Light to Light walk, spanning from Boyds Tower to Green Cape.
Nature Walks
Discover the intricate network of breathtaking hiking paths that wind through Tathra and the surrounding national parks. Offering a range of trails catering to different skill levels and accessibility, there’s an adventure awaiting every explorer.
Mogareeka Cycle and Walkway
The Mogareeka Cycle and Walkway, spanning 2.5 kilometers, offers a shared pathway for cycling and walking, connecting Tathra Beach with Mogareeka Inlet. Perfect for families, it features a flat, separate path from the road.
Starting at Francis Hollis Drive and Andy Poole Drive intersection, it runs parallel to Andy Poole Drive and Tathra-Bermagui Road to Mogareeka Bridge at Tathra Beach’s northern end.
Mogareeka Inlet invites a swim or stroll along its sandy shores. For more adventure, cross the bridge to access the three-kilometer Fords Walking Track in Mimosa Rocks National Park via Bay Drive. Plus, it provides easy access to Tathra’s mountain bike trails along Katung Road.
Location: Andy Poole Drive, Tathra NSW 2550
Accessibility: Accessible for people with various needs
Facilities: Family-friendly
Fords Walking Track
The 3km (one-way) walk follows a winding bush trail along the northern side of the Mogareeka, the mouth of the Bega River, before ascending the headland and arriving on the southern shores of Moon Bay. Moon Bay is a small, unpatrolled beach bordered by steep rocky cliffs. Accessible via Bay Drive.
Tathra Headland Walk
The Tathra Headland Walk offers a short yet captivating experience, spanning just 300 meters but showcasing the charms of the Sapphire Coast.
Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, particularly during the annual whale migration from August to November. Look out for dolphins and seabirds too.
Accessible pathways link Tathra Headland to the historic Tathra Wharf via boardwalks and a viewing platform made from reclaimed wharf timbers.
Location: Bega Street, Tathra NSW 2550, Australia
Tathra Coastline Walk
There is a 2-kilometer coastal walk from Tathra Wharf to Kianinny Bay, accessible via Bega St.
Wharf to Wharf Walk
Embark on a historical journey through Yuin ancestral lands with the Wharf to Wharf Walk, spanning 27 kilometers along the Sapphire Coast of NSW.
This coastal trek, starting at Tathra Wharf, offers breathtaking scenery including cliffs, headlands, bays, lakes, and secluded beaches.
The trail seamlessly integrates existing paths through coastal reserves, beaches, and Bournda National Park, providing a continuous coastal experience from Merimbula to Tathra.
Hikers can opt for single-day or multi-day hikes, with camping available at Hobart Campground. Whale-watching is a highlight from September to November.
Explore the untouched beauty of the Sapphire Coast with optional side trails for extended adventures in nearby national parks and reserves.
Addressed at Lake Street, Merimbula, New South Wales 2548, Australia.
Kangarutha Walking Track
The Kangarutha walking track, situated within Bournda National Park on the South Coast, offers stunning coastal vistas and opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, and swimming.
Location: Bournda National Park, South Coast
Distance: 9km one-way Estimated
Time: 3 hours 30 minutes – 4 hours
Difficulty: Grade 3
Before setting off, complete a trip intention form for your emergency contact’s awareness. Daily park entry fees apply, with caution advised against nighttime walks due to terrain and cliff proximity.
Necessary items include water, a hat, sunscreen, and binoculars for bird or whale watching, particularly during October to November’s migration season.
The Kangarutha track offers a challenging journey through Bournda National Park’s coastal terrain. Traverse pebbly beaches, sandy bays, rainforest areas, and cliffs, enjoying a picnic lunch with ocean views and swims at secluded beaches.
Flexible access points include Kianinny Bay to Boulder Bay, Wallagoot Lake Boat Club to Turingal Head, or a partial route to White Rock Quarry.
Track classification:
Grade 3
Explore further about the classification system
Characteristics of this trail:
Length
9km one-way
Duration
3 hours 30 minutes – 4 hours
Trail Markings
Clearly marked with signage
Recommended Skill Level
Some prior bushwalking experience advised
Slope
Short, steep inclines
Stairs
Numerous stair sections
Trail Condition
Well-maintained path, occasional obstacles
For more information https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/kangarutha-walking-track
Sandy Creek Loop Track
Explore the diverse landscapes of Bournda National Park on the far South Coast with the Sandy Creek loop track, which takes you through Bournda Lagoon, Sandy Creek, and patches of dry sclerophyll forest.
Location: Bournda National Park, South Coast
Trail Details:
- Distance: 6km loop
- Estimated Time: 2 – 3 hours
- Difficulty: Grade 4
- Entry Fees: Park entry fees apply
What to Bring:
Remember to pack essentials like a hat, sunscreen, and water for your hike.
Experience the Sandy Creek loop track, offering a moderately challenging hike with stunning scenery. Traverse diverse habitats including forests, she-oak thickets, rainforest pockets, and a beautiful paperbark avenue along Bournda Lagoon. Encounter the coastline, Sandy Beach Creek, and Bournda Lake, perfect for swimming and fishing.
Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting glossy-black and yellow-tailed black cockatoos, as well as majestic sea eagles. Keep an eye out for native wildflowers, especially in spring, and watch for wildlife like swamp wallabies, kangaroos, and water dragons along the way.
Trail Classification:
Trail Specifications:
- Length: 6km loop
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Markings: Signposted
- Recommended Experience: Some bushwalking experience advised
- Terrain: Gentle hills
- Stairs: Occasional steps
- Path Condition: Rough track with numerous obstacles
For more informaation https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/sandy-creek-loop-track
Mimosa Rocks Walking Track
Ideal for family outings, the effortless Mimosa Rocks walk leads you along a brief boardwalk to an observation point where you might catch sight of the Mimosa shipwreck resting on the rocks below.
Location:
Mimosa Rocks National Park on the South Coast
Accessibility: Easy
Distance: 2km round trip
Recommended Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Difficulty: Grade 1
Don’t forget your hat, sunscreen, and water.
Explore the Mimosa Rocks walking track in the park’s northern section, suitable for children and wheelchair accessible.
Begin at the Aragunnu carpark, following a marked path connecting two picnic spots. Continue northward for 250 meters along a paved route and boardwalk, passing the park’s largest Aboriginal midden.
Arrive at the observation point at the end of the boardwalk for stunning views of the rocky landscape, including a pyramid-shaped rock and the wreck of the Mimosa, a historic paddle steamer.
Track Classification
Grade 1
Find out more about the classification system
Attributes of this Trail
Length
2km round trip
Duration
30 minutes to 1 hour
Trail Markings
Clearly marked
Skill Level
No prior experience necessary
Elevation Change
Level terrain
Stairs
None present
Path Condition
Well-maintained trail
For more information https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/mimosa-rocks-walking-track
Middle Lagoon Walking Track
Middle Lagoon walking track, located in Mimosa Rocks National Park, offers a brief stroll through forested areas to a coastal lagoon teeming with birdwatching opportunities.
Location: Mimosa Rocks National Park, South Coast
Distance: 0.2km
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Stay hydrated with water and protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen.
Caution: Be aware of strong rips and currents at beaches and estuaries in Mimosa Rocks National Park. Visit our beach safety page for details. Surf Life Saving Australia patrols nearby beaches.
Discover the Middle Lagoon walking track, a scenic trail just north of Tathra. Wander through coastal bushland adorned with ancient burrawangs, abundant in the region. This short walk offers wildlife sightings and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Spot wallabies, kangaroos, sea eagles, pelicans, and black swans near the tranquil lagoon. Enjoy a swim or surf at the coastline, watching for dolphins and migrating whales. Afterward, relax with a picnic or consider camping overnight at Middle Beach campground or Myer House.
For more information https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/middle-lagoon-walking-track
Wajurda Point Walking Track
The Wajurda Point walking track guides you to a lookout boasting the finest coastal vistas within Mimosa Rocks National Park. This straightforward stroll is particularly ideal for observing whales.
Location
Mimosa Rocks National Park on the South Coast
Accessibility
Moderate
Distance
0.5km
Recommended Time
19 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
What to Bring
Sunscreen, hat
Please Note
Don’t forget your binoculars for whale watching.
Embark on a refreshing jaunt along the Wajurda Point walking track. Commencing at Moon Bay carpark, this brief hike meanders through shaded eucalypt forest for 500 meters. It culminates at a lookout perched prominently on the point, offering sweeping vistas of the mesmerizing sapphire-hued ocean. From this vantage point, you can gaze towards Nelson Beach, Baronda Head, and Mimosa Rocks, all framed by the distant Mumbulla Mountain and Gulaga (Mount Dromedary).
Wajurda Point lookout is also an excellent spot for observing whales during the winter and spring seasons, so remember to bring along your binoculars.
For more information https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/wajurda-point-walking-track
Blueberry Ash Track
Blueberry Ash Walk, an 800-meter loop with a moderate grade, begins at this point. It’s advisable to start the walk by turning left at this sign and proceeding clockwise. To locate this trail, continue straight down the Main Ridge Track from the car park (accessible via Thompson Drive). Please note, as of March 16th, 2021, the track may be slightly overgrown with tree branches across it, and there might be a lack of signs possibly due to bushfires. Take caution and remember your route.
An 800-meter loop trail winds through the Tathra Forest Wildlife Reserve.
Access: Thompson Drive
Main Ridge Track
The track leads to a small car park, providing access to the Main Ridge Walking Track and the Blueberry Ash Walk. Please note that the car park is not suitable for caravans or camper trailers due to limited space for turning around. Caution is advised as of March 2021, as tracks may be overgrown with tree branches blocking the way.
A 2-kilometer bushwalk traverses the Tathra Forest Wildlife Reserve.
Access: Thompson Drive or Dilkera Rd.
Marine mammals in their ntural habitat
Tathra sees a significant influx of Humpback whales, renowned as its most notable visitors. Annually, these majestic creatures embark on a journey along the renowned “Humpback Highway,” traversing the coast in large numbers. During the latter months, they guide their offspring to the frigid Antarctic waters to indulge in krill before returning to warmer northern waters in the first half of the year for breeding. Tathra and its encompassing coastline serve as crucial rest stops, nurturing grounds, and feeding spots for these whales as they undertake this extensive voyage. The prime time for whale watching in Tathra spans from September to November, coinciding with their southward migration.
Furthermore, Tathra stands as an optimal vantage point for observing a diverse array of marine life, thanks to the convergence of two significant ocean currents dubbed the “Meeting of the Waters.” The warm East Australian Current descends from the tropical Coral Sea, intersecting with cold currents flowing northward from the Southern Ocean of Antarctica. This collision sparks a flurry of marine activity, with a surge in microscopic plankton populations, the formation of massive baitfish gatherings, and ensuing feeding frenzies that entice a multitude of marine species.
Tathra Headland lookout
Access: Bega Street
Tathra Wharf
Access: Wharf Road or Tathra Headland.
Chamberlain lookout
Access: Kianinny Street
Wajurda Point lookout
Access: Nelson Lake Road
Oysters thrive in their natural habitat
Tathra boasts some of Australia’s most acclaimed oysters, sourced from the untouched waters of Nelson Lake and Wapengo Lake nestled within Mimosa Rocks National Park. The revered Sydney Rock Oyster, indigenous to Tathra’s surrounding estuaries, flourishes in this ideal breeding ground, making it an exceptional region for oyster production.
If you are looking for a place to buy oysters then click on the link provided Tathra Oysters
Outdoor Activities for All
Tathra offers a varied selection of natural attractions, activities, and lodging options that are easily accessible.
Tathra Beach Wheelchair
The beach wheelchair at Tathra can be accessed during patrols or arranged by appointment through the Tathra Surf Life Saving Club.
Location: Andy Poole Drive.
Tathra All-Abilities Playground
A playground catering to all abilities is situated at Taylor’s Square, located just off the southern part of Tathra Beach. Location: Andy Poole Drive.
Tathra Headland Walk
There’s a wheelchair-friendly pathway spanning 300 meters between Tathra Headland and Tathra Wharf.
Location: Bega Street.
Key Packing List and Itinerary for the Blue Mountains
Tap here to check out my packing list and itinerary for the Blue Mountains
Tathra Tours and Activities:
- Coastlife Adventure
- Navigate Expeditions
- Sapphire Coast Guiding Company
- Tathra Beach and Bike
- Tathra Beach Eco Camp
Places To Get Food
- Drift Tathra
- Salt Cafe Surf Tathra
- Tathra Beach and Bowling Club
- Tathra Beach Country Club
- Tathra Hotel
- Wild Orchid Cafe
Accommodation
- Kianinny Bush Cottages
- BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Tathra Beach
- Tathra Beach House Holiday Apartments
- NRMA Tathra Beachfront Holiday Park
- Tathra Hotel & Motel
- Tathra Beach Eco Camp
- Kalaru Holiday Park
- Cabin Getaway in Tathra
- Balconies Dolphincove
- Bega Southtown Motor Inn
- Bega Village Motor Inn
- Bega Caravan Park
- Tura Tree House
- Bega Motel
- Woodbine Park Eco Cabin 02
- Hakuna Matatah – Rural escape on the coast
Click on the link provided to go to Tathra Part 1
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tathra mean in Aboriginal?
In a local Aboriginal language, Tathra is understood to mean “beautiful country” or “place of wild cats.”
What shops are in Tathra Town Centre?
Little Bottler – Tathra Cellars: Liquor store.
Tathra Oysters: Store.
Martin Planert Fine Jewellery: Jewelry store.
Friendly Grocer: Supermarket.
Tathra Pharmacy: Pharmacy.
Tathra Beach Designs: Home goods store.
Tathra Swiss Bakehaus: Store.
Tathra Beach & Bike
Is Tathra a surf beach?
The beach stretches for three kilometres along the coast and is sheltered from southerly winds, making it an excellent spot for surfing, board riding, and sailboarding
What is there to do in Tathra for kids?
Tathra offers a natural playground brimming with coastal delights for kids to explore. They can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and snorkeling in the calm waters of Mogareeka, Shelley Beach, or Kianinny Bay nearby
Who are the traditional owners of Tathra?
Tathra boasts a significant Aboriginal and maritime heritage. The Yuin people, the area’s Traditional Owners, have inhabited the land for over 7,000 years, enriching the region with their deep cultural legacy long before European settlers arrived
What caravan park did Frankie J Holden own?
Frankie and Michelle, former proprietors of Tathra Beachside Holiday Park in New South Wales, now oversee NRMA Tathra Beachfront Holiday Park.
If you’ve found this article helpful, you might also find my other pieces just as captivating.
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Merimbula Part 2: Coastal Charm and Vibrant Adventures
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