Road Tripping the NSW Coastline

Day 1-2: Merimbula, NSW

Start your coastal adventure in Merimbula, a gem on the Sapphire Coast known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant town life.

Activities:

• Merimbula Boardwalk: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, capturing panoramic views of the lake and ocean. Perfect for sunset or sunrise walks.
• Merimbula Aquarium: Explore local marine biodiversity with interactive displays perfect for families. The aquarium also offers a quaint cafe with ocean views.
• Bar Beach: Ideal for snorkelling and relaxing, Bar Beach is protected and offers calm waters for swimming. A beach café provides refreshments and light meals.

Day 3-4: Tathra, NSW

Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes (23 km)

Drive to Tathra, a charming seaside town famous for its historic wharf and pristine beach.

Activities:

• Tathra Beach: Known for its clear waters, Tathra Beach is great for surfing, bodyboarding, and swimming. Lifeguards are on duty during peak seasons.
• Tathra Wharf: Visit this historic site, which houses a museum and is a popular spot for fishing. The café on the wharf serves fresh seafood and local produce.
• Mimosa Rocks National Park: A short drive from Tathra, this national park offers scenic hiking trails, secluded beaches, and picturesque picnic spots.

Day 5-6: Kioloa, NSW

Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes (200 km)

Continue to Kioloa Beach, a tranquil area surrounded by national parks and known for its laid-back atmosphere.

Activities:

• Merry Beach: Visit Merry Beach to enjoy its calm waters, ideal for families with young children or for a quiet day at the beach.
• Murramarang National Park: Explore the diverse landscapes, from forested hills to rugged coastlines. The park is also great for wildlife spotting, including kangaroos and colorful birds.
• Bawley Point: A short drive away, Bawley Point offers local artisan shops, cafes, and additional beaches to explore.

Day 7-8: Racecourse Beach, NSW

Travel Time: Approximately 10 minutes (3.5 km)

Next stop, Racecourse Beach, renowned for its excellent conditions for surfing and a family-friendly atmosphere. The park boasts a resort-style pool with a fun slide, mini golf, and a play area for kids, making it a perfect getaway for families.

Activities:

• Racecourse Beach Surfing and Swimming: With consistent waves, it’s a perfect spot for surfers of all levels. The beach is patrolled during high season, making it safe for family swimming.
• Resort-Style Pool: Enjoy the resort amenities, including a pool with a slide that is sure to be a hit with the kids.
• Mini Golf and Play Area: Engage in a friendly game of mini golf or let the kids have fun in the dedicated play area.
• Ulladulla Harbour: Explore the local seafood market, dine at waterfront restaurants, and take part in fishing charters available from the harbour.

Day 9-10: Myola, NSW

Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes (130 km)

Head to Myola, located at the gateway to Jervis Bay and offering some of the whitest sand beaches and clearest waters in the world.

Activities:

• Booderee National Park and Botanic Gardens: Discover native flora and fauna on well-maintained trails, or visit the botanic gardens to learn about the medicinal uses of local plants by Indigenous peoples.
• Currambene Creek Kayaking: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters of Currambene Creek.
• Jervis Bay Beaches: Spend a day at Hyams Beach, famous for its powdery white sand, or explore the many other less crowded beaches around Jervis Bay.

Day 11-12: Nambucca Heads, NSW

Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes (470 km)

Travel to Nambucca Heads, offering a mix of river and ocean environments, great for water-based activities and relaxed exploration.

Activities:

• V-Wall Outdoor Art Gallery: Take a walk along the riverfront to see the V-Wall, where local artists and visitors have decorated the rocks with colourful artwork.
• Nambucca River Water Activities: Engage in recreational fishing, jet skiing, or take a leisurely boat ride.
• Shelly Beach: Enjoy a quiet day at Shelly Beach, exploring rock pools and the adjacent nature reserve.

Day 13-14: Ballina, NSW

Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes (240 km)

Proceed to Ballina, known for its stunning riverfront and coastal scenery, offering a vibrant community atmosphere.

Activities:

• Big Prawn: Visit this iconic landmark and learn about its history in the local seafood industry.
• Lighthouse Beach: Ideal for surfing and long beach walks. Watch for dolphins early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
• Richmond River Cruises: Discover the beauty of the Richmond River on a scenic cruise, offering views of mangrove forests and abundant birdlife.

Day 15-16: North Star, NSW

Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (120 km)

Conclude your trip at North Star, a premium location known for its extensive family-friendly facilities and close proximity to the Gold Coast.

Activities:

• Resort-Style Pool and Water Park: Enjoy the water park with slides, a poolside cafe, and sun lounges for ultimate relaxation.
• Spa Facilities: Take advantage of the spa services offered at the park, including massages and beauty treatments.
• Local Exploration: Visit nearby attractions such as the Tweed River Art Gallery or venture into the Gold Coast for a day trip to theme parks or shopping districts.