Swap screens for dreamy coastal scenes on this little-known, 34-kilometre walk along NSW’s spectacular South Coast.

If New Year’s digital detox resolutions have already been dumped, fear not. NSW is home to a raft of beautiful walks that give you every reason to ditch your devices, from the volcanic Tomaree Coastal Walk to the culturally-charged Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk. But the Murramarang South Coast Walk, one of NSW’s ‘Great Walks’, stands apart.

Stretching between Ulladulla and Batemans Bay on the South Coast, the walk is typically completed over three days and is hemmed by spotted gum forests that grow right down to the beach. Rated Grade 4 in terms of difficulty, the reward-to-effort ratio is generous – prepare to traverse sleepy coastal villages that move at blissful snail-paced tempos, pass dramatic rock formations and cross secluded beaches with scintillating waters. 

The walk can be tackled independently or via multi-day, self-guided or guided experience packages. These include pre-booked stays at campgrounds or roofed accommodations and the option to add on transfers.  

What’s special about Murramarang South Coast Walk?

Murramarang National Park offers a rare natural phenomenon you’ll find in few other places in Australia – majestic burrawangs and spotted gum trees that grow right down to the beach. Every summer, the gums’ dimpled bark sheds to reveal mottled cream and grey spots that give the species its name. These beachside forests bring walkers the best of both worlds – the cool shade and birdwatching opportunities (twitchers, look out for lyrebirds and wonga pigeons) of the gum forests, as well as the swimming perks and serene environments of little-known beaches.  

Apart from birds, keep your eyes peeled for abundant local wildlife, including eastern grey kangaroos you’ll find grazing and bounding near beaches and picnic areas – especially around Pebbly Beach. 

The Murramarang South Coast Walk also holds immense cultural significance for the Indigenous Yuin people, who have rich, continuing connections to the lands and waters. The national park is home to the Murramarang Aboriginal Area, which is scattered with middens (ancient waste deposits of stone and shells) and sacred sites that show signs of life dating back thousands of years. 

Murramarang South Coast Walk route

The Murramarang South Coast Walk begins at Pretty Beach near Bawley Point, around three hours’ drive south of Sydney/Warrane or 1.5 hours from Canberra. Hikers trace idyllic, bush-flanked coastline until they reach Pebbly Beach, known for its kangaroos and calm, pristine waters.  

From there, it’s around a one-hour stretch before arriving at Depot Beach, another picturesque swimming and camping spot. Boasting views towards North and South Durras, nearby Point Upright lookout is a must. 

Continuing south, highlights include panoramic North Head lookout, along with sheltered Yellow Rock Beach that’s blissfully free from crowds. The walk ends at Maloneys Beach in Batemans Bay, also known for its abundant wildlife. 

Of course, it’s possible to complete smaller segments of the walk if you don’t have time to tackle the entire 34 kilometres.  

Where to stay along the Murramarang South Coast Walk

Need a place to rest your head and regain energy? These campsites and accommodations are located along or near the Murramarang walk. 

• Pretty Beach campground 

• Depot Beach campground and cabins  

• Oaky Beach campground 

• North Head campground  

• Yellow Rock Beach House in Murramarang National Park near Batemans Bay has its own private beach and water views from the deck 

• Judges House is a peaceful coastal cottage with a shady timber deck near Yellow Rock Beach

• NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort offers a variety of accommodation styles, from cabins and villas to glamping and camping

• Pebbly Beach shacks are rustic, self-contained cabins with direct beach access

Self-guided experiences

From March to November, walkers can book a three-day cabin experience, staying overnight in cabins at Depot Beach and South Durras from $670 for up to four people. Alternatively, a four-day camping experience offers three nights of tented accommodation at Pretty Beach, Depot Beach and Oaky Beach from $160 for two people.  

Guided experiences

Those wanting the expertise and company of a guide (along with an extra dose of comfort) can opt for the Region X three-day Murramarang premium journey. The tour includes stays in private villas at Depot Beach and South Durras and starts from $1099 based on a twin share.  

Or, join the four-day Women Want Adventure Murramarang hike for female companionship, secluded camps and a true digital detox, with your sleeping gear and clothing transported to the next camp each day for you. Prices start from $2190 per person. 

Tips

• Before leaving home, always check for alerts and closures in Murramarang National Park. 

• Check weather forecasts and information on tides from the Bureau of Meteorology website. 

• Bring plenty of water and fuelling snacks such as muesli bars 

• Don’t forget your swimmers! There are plenty of picturesque beaches and secluded bays along the way 

• Don’t leave food lying out in campgrounds – hungry possums will take advantage of the free meal