25 Best Things to do in Narooma & Nearby 2025 Guide

Looking for the best things to do in Narooma in the NSW South Coast? With water as blue, or dare I say even bluer than you’ll see in Jervis Bay, Narooma is a stunning little town that everyone should put on their bucket list.

This charming coastal town is a perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in a peaceful and serene setting.

Narooma is blessed with an array of natural beauty, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking coastal views. In this article, I’m sharing the best things to do in Narooma and nearby to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

What makes Narooma special?

I have to say Narooma is one of the most underrated destinations in New South Wales! It is a must-visit for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure. It offers an abundance of activities to suit every age and interest, from scenic coastal walks and fishing trips to visiting historical sites and sampling fresh seafood and spotting the local wildlife in person.

The town is also home to an array of cozy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, providing the perfect opportunity for some retail therapy and gourmet dining.

Snorkel or dive with Australian fur seals while visiting Montague Island, enjoy the pristine colours of the ocean and waterways and relax in a fantastic weekend getaway from Sydney.

If you’re looking to explore the South Coast, I would personally stay here and do day trips between Batemans Bay and Bermagui.

Where is Narooma?

Narooma is easily accessible from Sydney or Canberra, making it a great weekend getaway destination. The closest airport is Moruya Airport, located about 35 kms away.

If you’re on a South Coast road trip, the drive from Sydney to Narooma will take you around 5 hours, but don’t worry; there are loads of beautiful picturesque coastal towns and stunning natural landscapes to make the drive feel less of a slog.

It would make a fab little long weekend trip or Christmas or Easter break if you’re looking for new places to discover. This is because there are loads of things to do in Narooma and nearby places to visit as well, so you won’t be bored.

From Canberra to Narooma, it takes just 3 hours, making it a little easier for that weekend getaway.

Things to do in Narooma

1. Australia Rock

I think one of the main things to do in Narooma is visiting Australia Rock which is a unique rock formation located pretty much in the centre of town. It is shaped like the map of Australia and is a popular spot for taking photos although Steve thought it looked more like the shape of Bali!

The rock can be viewed from the Narooma Wharf, and visitors can also take a short boat ride to get a closer look. When we visited, it was quite busy here but the rest of the town was pretty quiet.

2. Dive or snorkel with seals in Montague Island

We tried to visit Montague Island Nature Reserve twice but the weather had other plans and it was cancelled because of rough seas. Everyone I know who has been has said the beautiful Montague Island is one of the best activities in Australia and of course best Narooma attractions! We were gutted we missed out on this!

Did you know you can snorkel or dive with seals in Montague Island?

Take a boat cruise over to Montague Island Nature Reserve, and choose between an island tour to visit the little Penguins, a snorkel tour or dive with seals here! We had booked the Montague Island tour with Narooma Charters so it’s worth checking them out! The boat ride takes you through pristine waters, providing stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding nature

3. Go for a surf at Narooma surf beach

Narooma Surf Beach is a stunning beach that everyone should visit when coming to Narooma. The beach really is stunning and located next to the famous Glasshouse Rocks which you need to see as well!

4. Explore Glasshouse Rocks

We attempted to visit Glasshouse Rocks and after simply typing it into Google Maps, it took us almost off road to the other side of Narooma Surf Beach. We couldn’t see the Glasshouse Rocks from there and we had a lot to do that day so we had to leave. It turns out, you just need to walk along Narooma Surf Beach to see the famous rock formations in New South Wales.

5. Bar Rock Lookout

Bar Rock Lookout offers panoramic views of Narooma’s coastline, and it’s a perfect spot for watching the sunrise or sunset. If you’re lucky, you might spot whales here during the whale season between June – November. The lookout is easily accessible, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll to the lookout or take a short drive to reach it.

6. Visit the Historic Lighthouse Museum

The Narooma Lighthouse Museum is a historic lighthouse that offers a glimpse into the town’s maritime history. Learn about the lighthouse’s construction and operation and enjoy stunning views of the coastline from the top of the lighthouse.

7. Play a round of golf at the world famous Narooma Golf Course

Narooma Golf Course is a world-renowned golf course that offers stunning views of the coastline, making it a beautiful day out for friends, or family. The course is located on a clifftop and offers a challenging game of golf while providing stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.

8. Look for stingrays at Mill Bay Boardwalk

Mill Bay Boardwalk is a peaceful and scenic trail that offers a chance to spot stingrays and other marine life. The boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding natural beauty.

9. Swim at Narooma Bar Beach & Wagonga Beach

Narooma Bar Beach & Wagonga Beach are technically one beach which sites in Wagonga inlet and opposite Australia Rock. Both are beautiful and secluded beaches that offers crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the coastline.

10. Eat at Salt on Narooma Marina

We loved Salt cafe in Narooma Marina as you can sit out and look at the beautiful house boats and watch life passing by on the gorgeous Wagonga inlet. It’s an absolutely beautiful area that we stopped by here again on our way back up to Sydney on our road trip. You can hire kayaks, bikes and house boats from the cafe which we totally would have done!

11. Drink at Big Niles Brewing

Love a brewery? Check out Big Niles Brewing near Dalmeny Beach which is just a 10 minute drive from Narooma. As one of the best breweries in Eurobodalla, put this one on your list to visit!

12. Visit the oyster farms

Narooma is known for its fresh seafood, especially oysters! Visit The Oyster Farmers Daughter for fresh local produce and seafood right opposite the Wagonga inlet. Narooma Bridge Oysters and Montague Oysters are also worth checking out as well. If you’re on a South Coast road trip, you can stop by loads of Oyster farms from Batemans Bay all the way down to Eden!

If you’re planning on visiting the NSW’s South Coast purely for the oysters, check out the Narooma Oyster Festival which is on around May every year.

13. Go seal spotting at Seal Rocks

Don’t be confused by the Seal Rocks in the mid-north coast! Seal Rocks in Narooma is the place to spot wild seals hanging out on the rocks near to Australia Rock at Wagonga Heads!

14. Watch a movie at the unique Narooma Kinema

The Narooma Kinema is a unique cinema that offers a chance to catch a movie in an art deco building! Cinemas like this are far and few in between, so if you love going to the cinema like I do, go check it out!

Places to visit South of Narooma

Narooma is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of other destinations to explore in the surrounding countryside. Here are just a few of the must see places you have to put on your list to visit.

15. Go for a swim at the Bermagui Blue Pool

Bermagui’s Blue Pool is popular swimming spot located just a short drive from Narooma. The pool is a natural rock pool filled with crystal-clear water and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

When we visited, it was at the end of the day so the light wasn’t great (visit in the morning!). But, I’m so glad we made the effort because it is simply beautiful and although it’s famous, it feels like a hidden gem as it’s hidden from the road.

16. Visit Camel Rock Beach

Camel Rock Beach is a stunning beach located near the town of Bermagui. The beach is named after the camel-shaped rock formation that sits on the beach and offers stunning views of the coastline. There are plenty of rock pools to explore right next to this rock which is literally a 1 minute walk from the Camel Rock Beach Car Park.

17. Be marvelled by the Horse Head Rock

Horse Head Rock is a natural rock formation located near the town of Bermagui and right next to Camel Rock. The rock formation is shaped like a horse’s head and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Check out our guide for How to find Horse Head Rock and make the most of seeing this incredible sight and the stunning beaches next to it.

18. Explore the absolutely stunning Mystery Bay

Mystery Bay is a small coastal village located just a short drive from Narooma and really is absolutely beautiful. The area is known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty and offers a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, surfing, and hiking. But the beach here is just fantastic. Honestly make the effort to come here and check out our Mystery Bay Guide before you go.

19. Enjoy the touristy town of Central Tilba

Central Tilba is a historic village which almost looks like a movie set. The village is known for its well-preserved heritage buildings and offers a range of shops, cafes, and galleries. You could easily spend a good few hours here checking out all of the shops and cafes. Have a drink at the pub and enjoy the stunning rolling hills from here.

20. Give back to Cobargo

You may have heard of Cobargo already after they endured the devastating bush fires a few years back. The town is small, but make the effort to pass by and look around the shops here. The pub is worth checking out as well!

A few must see places north of Narooma

North of Narooma is a beautiful coastal area that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The area is home to a range of beaches and natural attractions, including Tuross Head, Bodalla, and Mossy Point which we’ll talk more about below.

21. Check out the One Tree Point Lookout at Tuross Head

We kept seeing signs for Tuross Head and so on the way back from our road trip we decided to check it out. Turns out the One Tree Point Lookout is great. We loved the tee pees which had been made out of the driftwood found on the beaches here.

22. Stop by Bodalla for dairy!

Bodalla is a small rural town located just a short drive from Narooma. Now, the town is tiny with just one street, but you’ll see it’s super popular with tourists. Make sure you stop by the Bodalla dairy for ice cream! The pub opposite is also really nice too and has beautiful views of the rolling hills.

23. Enjoy the beautiful Mossy Point

Mossy Point is a small coastal village located just a short drive from Narooma but it’s really gorgeous! Stop by the Mossy Point Cafe for food and drive down to the Mossy Point Boat Ramp where you can spot stingrays. You can hire kayaks from here too and paddle around!

24. Don’t miss Batemans Bay

depot-beach-batemans-bay — Depot Beach Batemans Bay

Batemans Bay is about 1hr drive north of Narooma on the NSW South Coast. It’s a beautiful coastal town with absolutely stunning beaches. Check out our Batemans Bay Guide before visiting: Best Things To Do in Batemans Bay as we’ve included all of our favourite places!

Go check out Murramarang National Park and visit beaches such as; Depot Beach, South Durras Beach and Cookie Beach to name but a few – they are all beautiful! I had heard it’s home to one of the best national parks in the South Coast, and it’s true! Murramarang National Park really is absolutely incredible! So, make sure you check out our guide, Best Beaches In Batemans Bay as well!

25. Check out the secret swimming spot

the-gantry-bawley-point — The Gantry South Coast

Looking for a picture perfect beach to swim nearby? Check out The Gantry at Bawley Point which has a little jetty, great for jumping off and into the crystal clear turquoise water! We loved this spot, it almost reminded us of the Med!

Where to Stay in Narooma

Narooma offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly motels and holiday parks, there is something for everyone in Narooma.

Anchors Aweigh Bed & Breakfast – Stunning views of the coastline, affordable and walking distance to the centre of town.
Horizon Holiday Apartments – 4 star apartments located on the outskirts of town with cracking views.
The Tree Motel – cheap and cheerful motel with great reviews!