Who doesn’t love a public holiday?

With an extra day off, it’s time to get out and have fun.

If you’re not too sure what to do, it’s time to head down to the South Coast.

The South Coast is a region that is south of Sydney, between 30-120 minutes drive, depending on how far you enjoy road-tripping. Prominent suburbs on the South Coast include Wollongong, Kiama and Jervis Bay. The region also contains many national parks, rainforests, beaches and lagoons- so it’s no wonder that there are so many fun (and gorgeous) things to do and see. 

Here is a list of 12 exciting must-visit destinations and activities to see and do on the South Coast over the long weekend.

1 – Take A Walk on Chinamans Beach

Photo: Jordan Robins Photography

Starting off in Jervis Bay, it is essential to visit Chinamans Beach. 

You’ll enjoy a tranquil morning or evening stroll as your feet caress the soft, cool white sand. Absorb the fresh, clean air and relax over the public holiday.

2 – Swim With Australian Fur Seals

Photo: Time Out

The best time to observe Australian Fur Seals up close is from May through October. The seals are more dynamic in the morning, turning and whirling to tempt you to play with them.

This is a must-do activity if you have never gone diving or snorkelling with seals!

3 – Catch The Sunset Tour

Photo: Jordan Robins Photography

The Pontoon Boat, operated by Jervis Bay Wild offers a wonderful experience for the entire family as it cruises along the calm waters of Currambene. You will be treated to a relaxing and opulent evening throughout the hours of sunset. 

If your visiting with a group, be sure to organise a Subset BBQ cruise!

4 – Learn to Skydive

Photo: Skydive Oz

Feel the rush of free-falling over New South Wales’ breathtaking south coast with Skydive Oz! 

One of the most thrilling and challenging sports in the world is skydiving. As you manoeuvre your body and manage your speed and direction during free fall, you can feel the wind rush by you. Then, steer your parachute down to the landing spot. (With the help of an instructor of course)

5 – Fun in the sun at Jamberoo Action Park

Photo: Visit NSW

Experience Jamberoo Action Park this season, where you drive the action!

The largest family-operated water theme park in NSW, located just one hour south of Sydney, offers a variety of top-notch rides and attractions. Jamberoo Action Park is positioned to provide an entertainment experience unlike any other because it is nestled among the mountains in Jamberoo and has the breathtaking Illawarra escarpment as its backdrop.

6 – Drive Along The Spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge

Photo: Trip Advisor

Grand Pacific Drive is a 140-kilometre, award-winning coastal route that starts in the Royal National Park, 45 minutes south of Sydney International Airport. 

The signage along Grand Pacific Drive makes the experience more engaging and meaningful by explaining the significance of each region along the route. To ensure that vehicles don’t miss the famous locations along the journey, the reassurance signs mention important sites and their distances. Keep your eyes peeled!

7 – Thrilling Treetops Adventure

Photo: Adrenaline

Treetop adventure park inside Shoalhaven Zoo lets you zip through the air and scramble around rocks at Treetops Adventure Nowra, Australia’s First Cliff Edge Adventure Park on the banks of the Shoalhaven River.

You will be giggling with the kookaburras after a 2.5-hour session of the aerial challenges (including training), with specific courses created to push you regardless of your level because your adrenaline is your main focus.

8 – Visit Symbio Wildlife Park

Photo: Klook

Enter Symbio Wildlife Park and get a chance to encounter some of the most magnificent species up close and personal from Australia and throughout the world, including kangaroos, koalas, red pandas and wombats.

A massive new splash park, an adventure playground, and a tonne of picnic spots are all included in Symbio’s 16 acres of well-maintained gardens, making it the ideal place for a fun-filled family day. 

At Symbio, there is something for everyone.

9 – Bay and Beyond Sea Kayak

Photo: Red Balloon

Visit the Batemans Marine Park in the Eurobodalla Shire and discover its magnificent coastal lakes, open coastline, and tidal estuaries.

When you skim through the shallows or go out the open water in search of whales and dolphins, kayaking gives you the ideal vantage point for viewing the marine environment. You can rent a boat and explore some secluded waters on your own or as part of a tour.

10 – Whale Watching Cruise

Photo: Break Loose

Visit Jervis Bay and experience seeing whales in real life!

On this 2-hour whale-watching tour, you’ll be able to appreciate just how massive these wonderful creatures are- and if whales aren’t of interest to you, you can even see some local bottlenose dolphins as they jump out of the water.

11 – Wharf to Wharf Walk

Photo: About Regional

The 27-kilometer Wharf to Wharf Walk follows the coast past rocky cliffs, breathtaking headlands, hidden bays, lakes, freshwater lagoons, and miles of deserted beaches.

The adventure can be completed in two or three single-day walks, as an overnight hike with camping at Hobart Campground in Bournda National Park, or as a day hike for those with limited time but no energy.

It is the perfect walk for nature lovers, coastal enthusiasts and photographers. Throughout the annual spring migration, from September to November, the walk offers some of the best viewing opportunities for whales on the coast.

12 – Make Your Own Sterling Silver Jewellery

Photo: Visit NSW

You can learn all the conventional techniques for creating sterling silver pendants, earrings and rings at Silver Smith Workshops, where an expert will be on hand to instruct you in a small group. Alternatively, you might prefer to schedule your own private, one-on-one time.

They also provide discounts for group bookings of six individuals, which are ideal for hens parties or birthday celebrations.

These inspiring and engaging workshops will leave you with a strong sense of accomplishment, new friends, and accessories you can be proud to wear.

Final Words

With a public holiday on hand, the South Coast has so many spectacular things to see and do with your friends and family. Make sure to grab this opportunity and de-stress yourself from the week, whilst discovering all the great things the South Coast has to offer. 

If you like what you see when you head down to the South Coast why not look at calling it home?

Contact our team below to find out which South Coast location is perfect for you.