Surrounded by lush national parks, sparkling waterways and a string of golden beaches, Batemans Bay showcases New South Wales’ natural spoils. Outdoor activities are the order of the day, with plenty of opportunities to fish, paddle, sail or simply soak up the sun on the beaches.

Things to do

As soon as you step foot in Batemans Bay you'll be won over by its laid-back atmosphere. Most of the action revolves around the waterfront, where you'll find a colourful line-up of restaurants serving local oysters and freshly caught fish with sweeping views of the bay.

Whether you've got little ones in tow or are simply a lifelong animal lover, Mogo Zoo is one of Australia's best-kept secrets. Inside you'll find exotic animals, including Nepalese red pandas, white lions, snow leopards, bears and tigers. You can even sign up for animal encounters and a behind-the-scenes zookeeper experience.

With its golden beaches, sheltered bays and resident kangaroos, Murramarang National Park for experiencing tranquil nature. There are plenty of places to unpack a picnic, as well as scenic hiking trails that wind through the rainforest.

Whale-watching season spans from May to November and Batemans Bay is one of the best places in Australia to get up close and personal with the gentle giants. You can sign up for a guided whale-watching trip or pack your binoculars and head to one of the scenic lookouts along the coast.

Getting around

Batemans Bay is easy to get around on foot, but it’s best to hire a car if you want to venture further afield. Moruya is the closest airport, with the drive to Batemans Bay taking around 30 minutes.