With a slightly cool edge to the air, impossibly
CLEAR WATERS and glassy, NEAR-PERFECT
WAVES, there’s nothing quite as remarkable as the
South Coast in winter, writes LARA PICONE.
the unspoilt
SOUTH
COAST
ENCOMPASSING the Shellharbour,
Kiama and Shoalhaven regions, this
pristine stretch of the New South Wales
coast has been flying under the radar as a
lesser-known winter playground for years.
Characterised by dramatic scenery,
untouched nature and some of the best
surfing in the country, one visit to this
beach-blessed haven in the cooler months is
enough to melt the iciest of hearts. Offering
everything from pulse-racing adventure to
gentle indulgence, and proving you don’t
need snow to relish a winter break, this string
of seaside sanctuaries is refreshingly unspoilt.
Whether you come to shimmy into
a steamer and paddle out to the surf
reserve at Shellharbour’s Killalea State
Park, lace up your walking boots to tread
the track along the Kiama Coast Walk,
or enjoy a more luxe escape with a stay
at Shoalhaven’s much-lauded Bannisters
Pavilion, there’s an experience to lure
everyone out of their winter hibernation.
Come for a long weekend or spend a
week or more chasing the waves between
these three incredible regions. Spot
whales as they playfully make their annual
journey, enjoy the regional produce
of the hinterland towns and immerse
in nature without the crowds – before
retiring by the comforting crackle of
a fire with a glass of local wine.In partnership with Destination NSW