Are you thinking of spending a few days at Hyams Beach this summer? But you are not sure what there is to do and see on the south coast of New South Wales? As more and more Australian’s are exploring their own backyard of late, you will be surprised by how much the NSW South Coast offers. From beautiful white sandy beaches to new and up and coming wineries, you could say that the Shoalhaven coast has it all.
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Where is Hyams Beach, Shoalhaven?
The city of Shoalhaven is on the south coast of New South Wales, Australia. The area covers approximately 200kms or 120 miles. George Bass explored the area back in 1797, where he crossed the shoals (a group of fish swimming together) at the entrance to the river and named it Shoals haven, where the area soon adopted its name. It is approximately a three-hour drive to the Jervis Bay area; however, with so many beautiful coastal spots to stop and discover, the three-hour drive can turn into a scenic all-day road trip travel itinerary.
Things to do on your weekend stay in Hyams Beach
Visit a winery or two.
I have to admit; I didn’t even know that Shoalhaven coast wine was a thing. Also, because I haven’t been to this part of New South Wales in about twenty years, I wasn’t aware that there are newly established wineries in the area. So I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised that the Shoalhaven area is not just about sunny weather and sandy beaches.
Coolangatta Estate
You can visit the coast wine area without visiting the oldest winery in the area. The Coolangatta Estate may have only been around since the early ’80s, but the history stretches as far back as 1822. Alexander Berry and Edward Wollonstencraft received 10,000 acres at the bottom of the Coolangatta mountain and, along with it, 100 convicts.
The first grapes on the South Coast region of NSW were planted here by Alexander Berry, but it was not until the 1980’s that Greg Bishop re-establish vineyards on the site. Book in for wine tasting at 1335 Bolong Road, Coolangatta NSW 2535 between 7.30 am to 5.00 pm daily.
Two Figs Winery
One of the newest wineries in the region, Two Figs Winery, was established in 2003 by Shayne and Alison Bricker. They may not have the history to boast about, but they do have 5000 cases of wine that they make yearly.
Book in for a tasting here to try their selection of premium wines and to take full advantage of the wine club membership. So sit out amongst the rolling hills and enjoy your wine tasting at 905 Bolong Road Back Forest NSW 2535 any day between 11 am and 5 pm.
Recommendation: Book ahead of time to either of the venues to avoid disappointment.
Enjoy a Dolphin Cruise in Huskinson
Jervis Bay is known for its protected marine park; enjoy a day out in warmer weather watching the beautiful bottlenose dolphins in the pristine water in the area. There are a couple of companies to choose from in Huskinson’s. All can be booked online whether you choose the Jervis Bay Dolphin tour on the Spirit of Jervis Bay or Combine a dolphin-spotting cruise on the pristine waters of Jervis Bay with a fun boom netting activity.
What better way to get up close and personal to such beautiful creatures than with a 1.5-hour cruise with knowledgeable tour guides?
Recommendation Bring warm clothes because it can be cold even in the summer months.
See Whales close up
Are you heading to Jervis Bay during the colder months? Then swap your dolphin cruise for a whale watching opportunity. The 2-hour whale-watching cruise includes a knowledgeable guide and commentary on the entire cruise. Enjoy a couple of hours watching migrating humpback whales in pristine waters. Then, rug up because it is going to be a cold one.
Recommendation There is no food onboard, so stock up at the cafe where you can buy snacks and drinks.
Go white sandy beach hopping
Many beaches in the area (not only Hyams) will have you claiming the “prettiest beach in Shoalhaven area” award. Although I highly recommend a day doing nothing but enjoying the white sand and crystal clear water of Hyams Beach, exploring the beaches in the Booderee National Park.
You will need a car to enter the Booderee National Park, and for a small fee, you get to visit any or all of the beaches in the area.
Recommendation My favourite is the spectacular Murrays beach.
Enjoy lunch with a view
The Huskinssons hotel has fresh produce, beautiful views and a great atmosphere at an affordable price. Spend lunch or early evening sipping a cold beer and enjoying the local seafood favourites while overlooking the calm waters of Huskisson.
Although the original hotel goes as far back as 1895, when the Cambourn Family built the Jervis Bay hotel; however, it wasn’t until 1932 when the iconic Huskinson Hotel premises of 75 Owen St, Huskisson was constructed and named “husky pub” by locals.
Recommendation Check out what’s on at the hotel before you go here.
Stop by The Hyams Beach store and cafe
Enjoy the morning eating at the only cafe in Hyams Beach; luckily, the delicious brunch selection. The Hyams Beach store and cafe. The cafe can be found at 76-78 Cyrus Street, Hyams Beach, and is open 8 am to 4 pm daily, with the last order for takeaways at 330pm. Or grab a coffee and enjoy a long stroll along the endless white sand beach.
Accommodation
Romantic weekend
The Hyams Beach Seaside Cottage
The Hyams Beach Seaside Cottage is for over 18s only and has a two-person capacity, making it the best place to stay for your mini getaway. The gorgeous seaside cottages are only a hop skip and a jump away from Hyams beaches white sandy beaches. The seven houses were initially built in 1920 as Fisherman’s cottages.
These beautifully quaint little refurbished accommodations are one-bedroom suites with a bathroom and tiny kitchen (well, it has an electric frypan and microwave) and shared use of a BBQ area out the back under a beautiful leafy area.
Recommendation – purchase your groceries nearby in nearby Vincentia, and spend a night in or indulge yourself in a homemade breakfast for two.
Family Friendly
Scarborough Hyams Beach
Scarborough Hyams Beach is the perfect accommodation for a family or a group of friends. The Scarborough sleeps six people; it is in an ideal location and has all the facilities you need for a mini getaway or an extended vacation. This three-bedroom home features a good-sized working kitchen, laundry facilities, wifi, excellent living space and a barbeque.
Go for dinner at the nearby location of Vincentia, or spend the night preparing your homemade meal. Either way, this location is perfect for your family-friendly vacation.
Recommendation: There are no local delivery services in the area, and the only cafe in Hyams closes early, so prepare your dinner choices in advance.
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!
Other things you need to know
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