I had a fantastic time exploring the Blue Mountains during our two-week road trip in November 2023. The waterfalls were particularly striking after the recent rainfall, and seeing the Three Sisters at sunrise and sunset was a breathtaking experience as the sunlight bathed the rock formations in a beautiful glow. We only scratched the surface of what the Blue Mountains have to offer, and I’m eager to return and explore further.
During our trip, we made several stops and stayed overnight at different locations, which allowed us to fully savor each destination without feeling hurried.
Bermagui was our second overnight stop. I highly recommend the accommodation I chose—it was peaceful and relaxing. Sitting on the deck overlooking the lake, the sunsets were stunning.
Welcome to Bermagui, where pristine beaches meet lush hinterlands. Nestled on the NSW South Coast, this charming town captivates with its rugged coastline, vibrant arts scene, and abundant outdoor adventures. From surfing the famous Blue Pool to exploring the historic Montreal Goldfields, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Join me as we uncover the hidden gems and laid-back coastal lifestyle that define Bermagui’s unique allure.
Bermagui
Nestled along the pristine coastline of New South Wales, Bermagui stands as a tranquil retreat, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. From its rugged cliffs to its serene beaches, this charming town beckons travelers seeking solace and adventure alike.
Discovering Natural Wonders:
Bermagui boasts an array of natural attractions that will leave outdoor enthusiasts in awe. Take a dip in the renowned Blue Pool, a stunning natural rock pool carved into the coastline, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. For those craving more adventure, explore the coastal trails that meander through lush rainforests and offer panoramic views of the ocean.
Cultural Delights and Artistic Flair:
Immerse yourself in Bermagui’s vibrant arts scene by visiting local galleries and studios showcasing works by talented artists. The town’s creative spirit is palpable, with regular art exhibitions, music festivals, and cultural events that celebrate the region’s rich heritage and creative community.
Culinary Experiences:
Indulge your taste buds with the fresh flavors of Bermagui’s culinary scene. From seafood caught straight from the ocean to farm-fresh produce sourced from nearby hinterlands, the town’s eateries offer a diverse range of dining options to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the chance to savor the local specialties, such as freshly shucked oysters or locally brewed craft beers.
Outdoor Adventures:
For thrill-seekers and nature lovers, Bermagui is a playground of outdoor adventures waiting to be explored. Embark on a deep-sea fishing excursion, where you can reel in a prized catch amidst the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Alternatively, paddle along the tranquil waters of Wallaga Lake or try your hand at surfing on the town’s renowned breaks.
Relaxation and Tranquility:
After a day of exploration, unwind and rejuvenate amidst Bermagui’s serene surroundings. Whether it’s lounging on the soft sands of Horseshoe Bay or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastal pathways, there are plenty of opportunities to embrace the laid-back lifestyle and soak in the beauty of this coastal haven.
Planning Your Visit:
With its idyllic setting, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of recreational activities, Bermagui offers a perfect escape for travelers seeking a slice of coastal paradise. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, this charming town promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to return time and time again.
Bermagui Harbour
Experience the lively atmosphere and stunning scenery of Bermagui’s harbor. Watch as fishing boats unload their catch and stroll along the waterfront to explore attractions like Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf, Bruce Steer Pool, and Bermagui Point.
Enjoy a coffee or lunch at the wharf while watching the bustling activity, and visit boutique shops and galleries featuring local art.
Bermagui Harbor, a renowned fishing destination, offers direct access to the continental shelf, teeming with a variety of fish species just 20 kilometers away. Charter boats provide year-round fishing trips, tailored to different preferences.
The harbor features a three-lane boat ramp, wash-down area, lighting, cleaning stations, fuel, and restrooms.
For a marine adventure, join a wildlife cruise to Barunguba (Montague Island) with Sapphire Coastal Adventures. Encounter dolphins, seals, penguins, and seabirds, with whale-watching tours available from August to November.
Location:
Lamont Street, Bermagui, NSW 2546, Australia
Accessibility
Accessible facilities are provided; please reach out to the operator for more information.
Barragga Bay
Barragga Bay stands as an unspoiled haven, embraced by rocky cliffs and enveloped by the beauty of spotted gum forests. The northern headland reveals inviting rock pools, perfect for a refreshing dip while offering breathtaking vistas across the bay’s expanse. It’s wise to wear sturdy footwear here due to the rugged terrain. As a secluded spot, Barragga Bay lacks lifeguard services and amenities. Located just 10 kilometers south of Bermagui, it’s easily accessible via the Tathra-Bermagui Road and a turn onto Kullaroo Road. Notably, Barragga Bay hosts the renowned Four Winds, featuring the Sound Shell and Windsong concert hall. Adjacent lies Armands Beach, the Sapphire Coast’s sole official clothing-optional beach, reachable via the same route along Kullaroo Road.
Location: Kullaroo Road Barragga Bay NSW 2546 Australia
Swimming:
The beach spans approximately 250 meters and boasts volcanic rock ledges, providing a sheltered and delightful swimming experience. Snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of rock pools along the shoreline.
Fishing:
Rock ledges at both ends of the beach offer convenient platforms for fishing, with a small creek in the northern corner serving as an additional hotspot. Despite its isolation, the beach remains easily accessible from the carpark.
Picnicking:
While there are no amenities available, the proximity of the beach to the carpark makes it an ideal spot for picnics.
Wallaga Lake National Park
Wallaga Lake, southern NSW’s largest lake, nestles under Gulaga Mountain, offering peaceful waters for fishing, swimming, boating, sailing, water skiing, and bushwalking. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are also popular here. The lake is equipped with various picnic spots and toilet facilities, with lakeside camping, cabins, and boat rentals available across three caravan parks.
For photographers, Beauty Point and Wallaga Lake Heights provide stunning sunset shots against the backdrop of the Great Dividing Range. Wallaga Lake is culturally significant to the Yuin-Monaro people, symbolized by Umbarra, the black duck. Merriman’s Island, marked as an Aboriginal Place, contains sacred relics and is closed to the public to preserve its integrity.
Located just seven kilometers north of Bermagui via Wallaga Lake Road, the lake is easily accessible.
Ingenia Holidays Ocean Lake is where I chose to stay. The cabin I lodged in boasted stunning lakefront views from its balcony. To reserve this lodging, utilize this hyperlink Booking.com
At 5:39 PM in November 2023, as I strolled along the lake within the caravan park, I spotted a possum. Typically nocturnal creatures, encountering one during the daytime was an uncommon and fortunate occurrence.
Fishing
Bermagui boasts a well-earned reputation for exceptional fishing. Renowned as a game fishing hub, notably due to visits by American author Zane Grey in the 1930s, its proximity to the continental shelf, just 20km offshore, sets it apart. This closeness to the Eastern Seaboard means warm northerly currents teem with various fish species near the coast. Whether chartering a boat for big game or deep sea and reef fishing, hiring a boat, or launching your own to explore the river and nearby lakes, or simply casting a line from the shore, there are ample opportunities for anglers.
- Bermagui Bait and Tackle
- Bermagui Big Game Anglers Club
- Bermagui Fisherman’s Co-Operative
- Fish Bermi Fishing Charters
Landmarks of Distinction
Bermagui Blue Pool
In the 1930s, the Blue Hole was transformed into the Blue Pool, a rectangular ocean pool, through efforts by local volunteers, the life-saving club, the Shire Council, and state government grants. It is now globally recognized as one of the top eight ocean rock pools and has been inducted into the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame. Famous for its shifting colors—from sea blue to green, grey on cloudy days, and vibrant pink and mauve at sunrise—it’s a favorite among photographers.
Ideal for family swims and snorkeling, the pool’s waters are naturally refreshed by the ocean. Facilities include accessible toilets, showers, seating, and parking, all near the pool. A viewing platform provides stunning coastal views and prime whale-watching opportunities, enhancing its status as one of Bermagui’s top attractions.
Camel Rock
A brief journey northward from Bermagui via Wallaga Lake Road leads to the entrance to Camel Rock, a remarkable geological feature formed from folded turbidite beds dating back 470 million years, shaped by underwater avalanches eons ago.
At Camel Rock, visitors will find a viewing platform, a shaded picnic area nestled under towering trees, restroom facilities, and ample parking for cars and caravans. Camel Rock Surf Beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, inviting swimming spots, snorkeling opportunities, intriguing rock pools to discover, and fishing prospects.
Mount Dromedary (also know as Mt. Gulaga)
Mount Dromedary towers within the 4,673-hectare Gulaga National Park, standing 806 meters above sea level and visible from Bermagui. Initially an active volcano some 60 million years ago, it originally stood about 3,000 meters tall. The mountain is deeply significant to the Yuin people, the area’s indigenous custodians, symbolizing ancestral and spiritual connections.
European recognition came when Captain Cook’s crew sighted it from 24 kilometers offshore on April 21, 1770, naming it Mount Dromedary due to its camel-like silhouette.
For those seeking adventure, a challenging 14-kilometer hike to the summit begins at Corkhill Drive in Tilba Tilba, taking about 5 hours. Hikers can find detailed guides at the Bermagui Visitor Information Centre.
Horse Head Rock
Estimated to have formed some 500 million years ago, this extraordinary geological wonder stands as one of the oldest rock formations in New South Wales. Its sheer magnitude and pristine setting inspire awe. Once relatively obscure, it has emerged as a coveted destination for photographers.
For optimal appreciation of Horse Head Rock’s distinct contours, traverse the 1.5-kilometer elevated bushwalking trail stretching between Camel Rock and Murunna Point at Wallaga Lake. Proceeding from Camel Rock along the coastline warrants caution, as access is feasible solely during low tide, and navigating the rocks may pose challenges.
Bermagui Tours and Activities:
- Montreal Goldfield
- Tilba Talks Heritage Walk
- Bermagui Heritage Trail
- Yuin Cultural Heritage Trail – Bermagui & Wallaga
- Bermagui Country Club
- Four Winds
- ReBoot in Bermagui
- Sculpture Bermagui
- Hot Fishing Charters
- stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
- Head Hunter Charters
- DJs Xstream Fishing Charters
- Bermagui Board & Bus
Places To Get Food and Drinks
- Dry Stone Restaurant at Mimosa Wines
- il Passaggio
- The Palm Bar at Bermagui Beach Hotel
- The Terrace Restaurant at Bermagui Country Club
- Bermagui Mudworks Pottery & Cafe
- Bermagui Pizza & Take Away
- Bermi’s Beachside Cafe
- Blue Wave Seafood
- Boneless Vegetarian Cafe
- Camel Rock Brewery Bar & Grill
- Eastwood’s Deli & Cooking School
- Eurolicious
- Honorbread
- The River Rock Cafe
- Bermagui Beach Hotel
- Bermagui Cellars
- The Harbar Bermagui
- Tilba Real Dairy
- Tilba Valley Winery & Ale House
Accommodation
- The Anchorage Bermagui
- Harbourview House
- Bermagui Beach Hotel
- Ingenia Holidays Ocean Lake
- Bermagui Motor Inn
- BIG4 Wallaga Lake Holiday Park
- Bermagui Bay Beach Bungalow
- Ocean View Beachfront
- Harbourview House Apartment
- Flats Elite Bermagui
- Sapphire Lodge
- Bermagui Bay Front Beach House
- Regatta Point Holiday Park
- Captain’s Quarters Bermagui
- Bermagui bliss beachfront holiday house
- Marlin Waters Unit 2 walk to beach and river Bermagui
- Hidden Gem Bermagui fishing friendly pet friendly Bermagui
- Breakwater Unit 4 Beachfront Bermagui
- 42 Songlark
- Llorene Family Fishing Pet friendly Bermagui
Mystery Bay
Situated 15 kilometers south of Narooma, the quaint seaside village of Mystery Bay boasts a tranquil, geologically fascinating, and breathtakingly scenic setting. Visitors delight in exploring its rock pools, caves, and vast sandy beaches, while the remarkably clear water provides an ideal environment for swimming, diving, and fishing.
The primitive campground, nestled within the coastal forest, enhances the feeling of serene seclusion. With walking trails, lookout points, historical insights encompassing Aboriginal and European heritage, and a remarkable geological feature known as a kink zone, Mystery Bay offers a captivating destination for exploration and discovery.
Mystery Bay lookout
Mystery Bay lookout within Eurobodalla National Park offers a fantastic vantage point for scenic vistas, picnics, leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and seasonal whale watching along the south coast.
Location: Situated in Eurobodalla National Park on the South Coast
Essentials to Bring:
Don’t forget to pack drinking water, a hat, and sunscreen.
Accessibility: Moderate
Located in the southern reaches of Eurobodalla National Park near Mystery Bay, the lookout offers stunning views over the Pacific Ocean. It’s a prime spot for whale watching during the spring migration, so bringing binoculars is a good idea.
The area is culturally significant to the coastal Yuin People, known for its historical sites like middens and artefact scatters. A picnic area nearby provides a serene setting for meals surrounded by coastal flora like wattle and banksia.
Mystery Bay lookout is a hub for walking trails, and the adjacent beaches are great for swimming, fishing, surfing, and snorkeling in the deep coastal channels.
Access and Parking
Located within the southern precinct of Eurobodalla National Park, Mystery Bay lookout can be reached via the following directions:
- Exit the Princes Highway onto Mystery Bay Road, approximately 8 kilometers south of Narooma.
- Proceed to the end of Mystery Bay Road.
Road Conditions:
- The roads leading to Mystery Bay lookout are sealed. Vehicle Accessibility:
- Accessible by 2WD vehicles. Weather Considerations:
- Accessible in all weather conditions. Parking Facilities:
- Ample parking is available at Mystery Bay lookout.
For more information click on the link provided https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/lookouts/mystery-bay-lookout
The photos below are of Mystery Bay.
Mystery Bay Campground
Mystery Bay campground, nestled along the oceanfront, stands as one of the last remaining natural camping sites on the south coast of NSW. Despite its proximity to the Princes Highway, the campground exudes a tranquil ambiance, making it feel worlds away from civilization.
Spanning a considerable area, the campground offers spacious sites dispersed amidst native bushland, predominantly featuring spotted gums, with acacias and banksias dotting the landscape closer to the breathtaking cliff headlands and petite beaches.
Facilities include cold showers, water taps, and pit toilets. All sites are unpowered, providing ample space for boats, caravans, or campers.
Check-in Details
Guests can check in and check out at any time on the booked date.
Camping at Mystery Bay Campground
The campground offers a spacious area with ample camp sites nestled amidst native bush, primarily featuring spotted gums. Closer to the stunning cliff headlands and small beaches, you’ll find acacias and banksias dotting the landscape.
Facilities include cold showers, water taps, and pit toilets. All sites are unpowered, providing plenty of space for boats, caravans, or campers.
Please note that there are no defined sites at the campground. Upon arrival, feel free to set up at any available site.
Park Facilities
Mystery Bay Campground offers various amenities to enhance your stay. Here’s a list of facilities available to all guests:
- Pet-friendly environment
- Unpowered sites
- Shower facilities
- Pit toilets
- Centrally located water taps providing drinkable water
- Gas and ice available from a nearby farm
- Dogs permitted on leash and under control at all times
Park Rules
All campers are asked to observe the following conditions. Thank you for your cooperation. We hope you enjoy your stay.
Eurobodalla National Park
Mystery Bay Sightseeing lookout
Certainly! Mystery Bay lookout within Eurobodalla National Park offers stunning vistas, ideal for enjoying scenic beauty, indulging in picnics, taking leisurely walks, observing birds, and catching glimpses of seasonal whale migrations along the south coast.
Arriving and Parking
Mystery Bay lookout resides in the southern area of Eurobodalla National Park. To reach the site:
- Exit the Princes Highway onto Mystery Bay Road, situated about 8 kilometers south of Narooma.
- Follow Mystery Bay Road to its conclusion.
Road Conditions:
- The roads are sealed. Vehicle Access:
- Accessible to 2WD vehicles. Weather Conditions:
- Accessible in all weather conditions. Parking:
- Ample parking space is provided at Mystery Bay lookout.
For more information click on the link provided https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/lookouts/mystery-bay-lookout/visitor-info
Ideal for a day trip or a weekend escape, Eurobodalla National Park on the far south coast provides excellent opportunities for camping, hiking, surfing, whale watching, and fishing.
For more information click on the link provided https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/eurobodalla-national-park/visitor-info
Discover Mystery Bay
There’s an abundance of activities and attractions awaiting exploration in and around Mystery Bay! From stunning beaches and rocky coves to fishing spots and charming cafes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Activities
While staying at Mystery Bay Campground, you’re conveniently located near excellent dining experiences, renowned wineries, beautiful beaches perfect for family fun, breathtaking bushwalking trails in stunning national parks, captivating coastal town shopping, art galleries, and exciting kayaking adventures! Be sure to explore the charming nearby towns of Narooma, Tilba Tilba, Batemans Bay, and Kianga. And for those seeking adventure beyond, scenic drives abound throughout the region. Here are some top recommendations for activities near the campground.
1080 Beach
Head to 1080 Beach near Mystery Bay for prime surfing, swimming, and fishing. Enjoy a scenic stroll if you’d rather stay dry. Afterward, picnic at headland tables for panoramic coastal views. Keep watch for wildlife like wallabies and enjoy birdwatching in the forest.
Accessibility
Not suitable for individuals with accessibility requirements.
Contact Information
1080 Beach Road Mystery Bay NSW 2546 Australia
parks.info@environment.nsw.gov.au
Mystery Bay Short Walk
Enjoy your day strolling through a free-flight aviary, exploring easily accessible trails winding through native forests, discovering interactive galleries, carving workshops, and much more!
Starting from Mystery Bay campground, take the bush track north to Billy’s Beach, an esteemed Aboriginal site perfect for families. This secluded beach is nestled between headlands, sheltered from winds by surrounding bushland. At the beach’s northern end, discover vibrant rock pools teeming with marine creatures. Along the way, marvel at the stunning vistas of Montague Island.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 1 kilometre return
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Starting Point: Mystery Bay Campground
Accessibility:
Not suitable for individuals with access needs.
Contact Information
Mystery Bay Short Walk
Mystery Bay Campground Mystery Bay NSW 2546 Australia
Exploring Mystery Bay’s Underwater World:
Directions:
Travel south on the Princes Highway from Narooma for about 10 kilometers, then make a left turn onto Mystery Bay Road. A captivating diving spot awaits around the rocks, or venture to the expansive, sheltered rock pool just north of Mystery Bay Beach. Proceed north through the rustic campground. Look for a trail veering right. It descends sharply as it approaches the pool.
Historic Mystery Bay Velodrome
Follow a picturesque trail from Mystery Bay to the historic Velodrome, built by the Corunna Cycle Club in the late 1890s. Enjoy panoramic sea views and spot native wildlife along the way. Cycle around the meticulously maintained 400-meter grass oval track to delve into its historic charm.
Access: Not suitable for individuals with access needs.
Contact Information
Mystery Bay Road Mystery Bay NSW 2546 Australia
Bellbird Scenic Drive Tilba Tilba
Embark on the Bellbird Scenic Drive by exiting the Princes Highway south of Narooma onto Corkhill Road. Explore Tilba Tilba’s charming village and Central Tilba’s historic streets. Enjoy scenic views of farms and bushlands as you drive along Corkhill Road. Stop at Tilba Valley Winery for wine tastings and lunches. Follow the Old Highway until you reach the foothills of Gulaga. Conclude your journey by returning to Narooma via the Princes Highway.
Welcomes individuals with access needs and accommodates them proactively.
Contact Information
Corkhill Road Tilba Tilba NSW 2546 Australia
Tilba Brewing Co
Tilba Brewing Co., nestled in Central Tilba, crafts exceptional ales in collaboration with Stoic Brewing. Their Prospectors Amber Ale pays tribute to Tilba’s gold mining history, boasting caramel and biscuit notes. The Palace Pale Ale honors the iconic Dromedary Hotel with robust tropical flavors. Exclusive to tap at the Dromedary Hotel and select local spots, their beers are also available in cans.
Accessibility
Welcomes individuals with access needs and accommodates them proactively.
Contact Information
14 Bate Street Central Tilba NSW 2546 Australia
http://www.tilbabrewingco.com.au
Markets
Bermagui monthly market specialises in handmade and homemade products and local produce and is held on the last Sunday of the month from 8.30am to 12.30pm in Dickinson Park, Lamont Street.
Bermagui Growers & Makers Market operates every Thursday from 3.30pm (closed in the winter months) in the Bermagui Country Club car park. In wet weather, the market is held inside the Club.
Tilba Growers Market is open from 8am to 12pm every Saturday in the Big Hall, Bate Street, Central Tilba.
Cobargo Market is held from 9am to 1pm every Saturday with a range of pop-up stalls along the main street amongst the town’s shops and businesses.
Pick up a copy of the Far South Coast iMag, a free bi-monthly tourist magazine, for details of all markets from Batemans Bay to Eden.
Complete Packing List and Itinerary for the Blue Mountains
Click here to view my packing list and itinerary for the Blue Mountains
Activities and Tours Near Mystery Bay
- Seal Swim Australia
- Underwater Safaris
- Southbound Escapes
- Narooma Charters Montague Island Tours
- Central Tilba Village
- Tilba Dairy
- Wagonga Inlet Cruises
- Montague Island Adventures & Charter Fish Narooma
- The Sheriff
- Mal’s BBQ Boats
- Passionfish Candles
- Tilba Sweet Spot
- Reva at Tilba
- Tilba Walks Heritage Talks Walking Tours
- Camel Rock Surf School
- Narooma Marina
- Narooma Kinema
- Narooma Golf Club
- South Coast Seaplanes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bermagui worth visiting?
Mazhang Bay in Bermage features distinctive Hague scenery and rocky vistas along its eastern coastline. Additionally, this small town on the eastern road boasts a pristine natural landscape with numerous attractions worth exploring, particularly the rocky formations around the bay.
What ocean is Bermagui on?
Course and features: The Bermagui River originates at the confluence of Coolagolite Creek and Nutleys Creek near Bermagui South. It flows predominantly eastward, traveling a distance of 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) before emptying into the Tasman Sea of the South Pacific Ocean near Bermagui. Over its course, the river descends 26 metres (85 feet).
Can you see whales from Bermagui?
Bermagui offers excellent whale watching opportunities. Just a three-minute cruise from the harbor takes you into the ocean where whales are frequently spotted.
What is the weather like in Bermagui beach?
Partly cloudy with a high likelihood of showers. Winds will shift from south to southwesterly at 15 to 20 km/h, changing to south to southeasterly around midday and easing by late afternoon. Temperatures will drop to between 8 and 12 overnight, with daytime highs reaching between 14 and 19.
Where is the Blue Pool in NSW?
This jewel of the Sapphire Coast dazzles with opaline shades—imagine azure blending into turquoise, shifting to blush, and finally into canary yellow. Among over 100 ocean-fed rock pools along the NSW coast, Bermagui’s Blue Pool is consistently rated as one of the most beautiful.
Are you allowed to swim in the blue pool?
At its deepest, the Blue Pool reaches just over nine metres, making it unsafe for swimming. Nonetheless, the pool’s stunning beauty makes it a worthwhile visit!
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