Nelson Bay

Fast facts

• Bustling coastal town with majestic seascapes
• Located on the estuary of the Clyde River
• 279 km south of Sydney, population 10,200

Why go there

From watercolour artists and rock fishermen to sandcastle builders, there’s something for everyone both in Batemans Bay and along its sublime stretch of coast.
Extensive shell middens in the national parks to the north and south are evidence of Aboriginal habitation in the area. These parks also boast abundant animal life.
The 27-hole Catalina Country Club is rated one of the finest courses on the South Coast.

History

Timber and fishing were the town’s economic mainstays in the 19th century, but at the time Batemans Bay was much smaller than the nearby towns of Mogo and Nelligen. It was not until a bridge was built across the Clyde River in 1956 that Batemans Bay began to thrive as the main service centre for a popular holiday region.

Things to do

• Take a lunchtime cruise along the Clyde River from Batemans Bay as far as Nelligen, 11 km up-river. Or hire a houseboat and stay overnight. 
• Drive south from Batemans Bay along Beach Road, which winds past a string of picturesque coves and beaches.
• Drop a line off the rock wall and hook a bream.
• Explore Murramarang National Park, with its friendly eastern grey kangaroos.
• Savour Clyde River oysters fresh from the estuary.
• Browse the local art and craft galleries.
• Walk along the Durras Discovery Trail.

Events

• The George Bass Marathon, held each January in even-numbered years, is the world’s toughest surfboat race. After a thrilling, colourful send-off from Batemans Bay, crews row 170 km south to Eden.

Don’t miss

• Birdland Animal Park, which has a huge collection of Australian native birds, an animal nursery, duck ponds, waterfalls as well as rides on the Birdsville Express train through 3 hectares of parkland.
• Browsing in the local art and craft galleries.