by Zoe Ng
posted on November 12, 2024
Located on the south coast of New South Wales, the sun-kissed town of Batemans Bay has a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages. So whether you’re a nature lover looking to sink into beautiful landscapes, a thrill seeker looking for adventure, or just want to spend a great weekend with the fam and kids, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Batemans Bay.
From cultural experiences to scenic walking trails, water sports, and delicious local cuisine, we’ve got your complete guide to where to kick back and enjoy your time in and around Batemans Bay.
An overview of the 10 best things to do in Batemans Bay
- Explore Mogo Wildlife Park
- Stroll along the Batemans Bay Sculpture Walk
- Enjoy fresh seafood at The Oyster Shed on Clyde River
- Snag fresh produce at the Batemans Bay Sunday markets
- Experience the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens
- Go back in time at the Batemans Bay Heritage Museum
- Hike through the Clyde River National Park
- Voyage to Montague Island
- Hit the waves at the surf beach, Denham’s Beach
- Explore marine life along the Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail
What you need to know about Batemans Bay (NSW)
- How to get to Batemans Bay: If you’re heading in by car, Batemans Bay is an easy 2-hour drive east from Canberra via Kings Highway, and around 3.5 hours drive south from Sydney along the Princes Highway/Hume Motorway. Alternatively, you could fly into Moruya Airport with connections from Sydney. From there, it’s a short 30-minute drive to Batemans Bay.
- Best time to visit Batemans Bay: Batemans Bay is a year-round destination. Summer (December to February) is ideal for beach activities, Winter (June to August) is the perfect time for whale watching, and the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) offer a more relaxed experience with pleasant weather.
- What you’ll love about Batemans Bay: You won’t be able to get enough of the stunning natural scenery and the abundance of wildlife, with the Clyde River estuary, pristine beaches, and the Batemans Bay Marine Park. There’s also the vibrant local food and wine scene, with fresh seafood, boutique breweries, and cellar doors.
- Driving conditions in Batemans Bay: The town and surrounding areas have well-maintained roads, and driving is generally straightforward, with light to moderate traffic outside of peak holiday periods. Expect some rain and poor weather conditions during winter months, so be sure to check forecasts before heading out, and drive cautiously at night.
- Best vehicle to hire in Batemans Bay: A compact car or midsize sedan is suitable for most travellers, as the town and surrounding areas are easy to navigate. An SUV or 4WD is a more versatile choice for exploring nearby beaches or venturing off-road.
- Accommodation and camping options in Batemans Bay:
- Budget ($100-$150 per night): BIG4 Batemans Bay Beach Resort, Pleasurelea Tourist Resort & Caravan Park, or Batemans Bay Holiday Park & Hostel
- Mid-range ($150-$300 per night): Abode Malua Bay, The Esplanade Motel, or Batemans Bay North Bush Cottages
- Luxury ($300+ per night): Rio Rita Ocean View Apartments, Harbour Marina Apartment, or Surfside Holiday Home
The 10 must-see things to do in Batemans Bay
From wildlife encounters and scenic walks to fresh seafood and stunning beaches, here are 10 unmissable experiences to have while in Batemans Bay.
1. Explore Mogo Wildlife Park
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: Around 10 minutes (10 km) south along the Princes Highway.
- Ideal activity length: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Adult tickets are $42, Child Tickets (ages 3-15) are $28
- Bookings: Recommended, especially during peak seasons. Book at the park’s entrance or online for a 10% discount
- Best for: Families, animal lovers, photographers, nature enthusiasts, and solo travellers.
This incredible park is home to a diverse range of exotic animals, from Red Pandas and Ring-Tailed Lemurs to Tigers and Hyenas. Take a self-guided excursion through the park’s spacious enclosures, hand-feed kangaroos, deer, and camels, or get personal with these magnificent creatures with an interactive wildlife encounter. One of the park’s highlights is the opportunity to see the rare white lions, and Mogo Wildlife Park is one of the few places in the world where you can see them up close.
2. Stroll along the Batemans Bay Sculpture Walk
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 5-minute walk from the city centre
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Art enthusiasts, nature lovers, families with kids, photographers, and people interested in local history and culture.
The Batemans Bay Sculpture Walk begins at the iconic Batemans Bay Bridge and follows the Clyde River, culminating at the Batemans Bay Marina. The walk is flat and paved (wheelchair accessible) with plenty of places to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy a leisurely picnic.
This captivating journey takes you around Batemans Bay central, showcasing 14 sculptures, each with its own story to tell. The number of sculptures grows every year as the winner of the annual Sculpture for Clyde event gets their sculpture permanently installed. There are also plenty of coffee shops and restaurants along the waterfront where you can enjoy the view.
3. Enjoy fresh seafood at The Oyster Shed on Clyde River
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 5-minute drive from the city centre
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Between $15-$50 per person depending on your order
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Anyone who wants to try super fresh seafood, or is looking for a nice spot for a casual lunch.
The Oyster Shed on Wray Street is a beloved local gem where you can sit back and enjoy the casual, relaxed atmosphere and nice panoramic views over the Clyde River. This family-run farm gate business is located on the banks of the Clyde River and has the freshest oysters harvested straight from the nearby working oyster farms. If you’re not a fan of oysters, the café also serves fresh prawns and mussels, and a small selection of non-seafood dishes, salads, tarts, coffee and wine.
Kick off your Batemans Bay adventure with the ideal car from Turo in Canberra or Sydney. Whether you’re after a compact ride to easily navigate Batemans Bay’s town centre or an SUV to venture into nearby trails, beaches, and lookout points, Turo offers a range of unique cars from trusted local hosts.
4. Snag fresh produce at the Batemans Bay Sunday Markets
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 2-minute walk from Batemans Bay CBD
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Free entry
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Foodies, shoppers, and families with kids.
Every first and third Sunday of the month, the Batemans Bay Sunday Market takes place alongside the Clyde River on the waterfront precinct — and it’s the perfect place to spend a casual Sunday morning. The market is vibrant and bustling with live music, delicious food stalls, and a friendly atmosphere. There are over 60 stalls to wander through selling juicy fruit, crisp vegetables, artisanal bread, handmade crafts, clothing, antiques, bric-à-brac and more.
5. Experience the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 5-8 minute drive south (approx. 5 km) along the Princes Highway
- Ideal activity length: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Nature lovers, families, photographers, and botany and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden is a 42-hectare oasis showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the region, and one of the top 10 gardens in Australia. Wander through stunning display gardens, explore walking tracks, and spot critters like echidnas, swamp wallabies, long-nosed bandicoots and lyrebirds.
There are plenty of picnic spots, a café, and a play area for the kids here. You can also join the free guided walk on the first Sunday of every month which takes an in-depth look at key plant species and ecological features.
6. Go back in time at the Batemans Bay Heritage Museum
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 2-minute walk from Batemans Bay CBD
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Free for children under 12, $7 for adults, and $10 per person in a guided group
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: History buffs and families
Housed in a historic 1905 courthouse, the Batemans Bay Heritage Museum (BBHM) features a diverse range of exhibitions, from Aboriginal heritage to local timber industry and geology. Learn about the area’s past through interactive displays, captivating audiovisuals, and personal stories shared by local Elders.
The museum’s dedicated kids’ space and reading room make it a fun and educational experience for families. Don’t miss the opportunity to browse the second-hand bookshop, where you can find some unique treasures and support the museum’s ongoing work.
7. Hike through the Clyde River National Park
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 15-minute drive north (approx 8 km) along the Kings Highway
- Ideal activity length: Half-day to full day
- Cost: Free entry
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, birdwatchers, water sports enthusiasts, and campers.
Stretching for 9 km along the river’s edge, this national park is a natural playground with beautiful landscapes from lush forested hills to tranquil mangrove-fringed shores and pockets of rare salt marsh. Cast a line and try your hand at fishing, explore the river by canoeing or kayaking, hike through the walking trails or camp under the stars at the Red Gum or Beach campgrounds.
One of the park’s main highlights is the Holmes Lookout with sweeping panoramic views over the entire Clyde River estuary — don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the view!
8. Voyage to Barunguba Montague Island
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: About 1 hour drive (70 km) south along Princes Highway to Narooma Wharf, followed by a 20-minute boat ride to the island.
- Ideal activity length: Half-day to full day
- Cost: $100+ per adult depending on the tour and provider
- Bookings: It is only possible to visit Barunguba Montague Island as part of a NSW National Parks and Wildlife contracted guided tour or when booking overnight accommodation. Advance bookings are recommended and the minimum age for visitors is 5 years.
- Best for: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families with older children.
This protected sanctuary just off the south coast of Narooma is home to a diverse ecosystem where you can see Australia’s largest fur seal colony, little penguins, and various seabirds. We recommend taking a day tour to spot a variety of seabirds, marine life, and potentially even humpback whales during the migratory season in spring.
The other option is to stay overnight at the Lighthouse Keepers Cottage and take a morning walk for stunning views and penguin spotting. Depending on your preference and tour package, you can enjoy activities like diving, snorkelling, and fishing. Whatever you decide, remember to pack warm clothes, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a camera!
9. Hit the waves at the surf beach, Denhams Beach
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 10-minute drive (7 km) southeast along Beach Road
- Ideal activity length: Half-day to full day
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Surfers, families, and snorkelers.
Want to catch some waves without getting too wiped out? Denham’s Beach is a popular surfing spot known for its gentle waves and pristine waters. The golden sand shores and relative seclusion make it a perfect place for families and surf beginners.
While the main beach is ideal for surfing, the sheltered bay on the northern side is a great spot for swimming and snorkelling. Keep an eye out for dolphins, which frequently visit the area.
Author’s tip: If this spot is on your list, remember that parking is available on the north end of the beach when you do visit!
10. Explore marine life along the Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail
- Travel time and distances from Batemans Bay: 14-minute drive (12 km) north to Maloney Beach, then 20 minutes south (19 km) to Sunshine Cove, and finally 14 minutes (13km) south to Guerilla Bay.
- Ideal activity length: Half-day to full day
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Snorkelers, underwater photographers, and marine life enthusiasts.
The Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail is a series of stunning coastal locations perfect for exploring the marine world. The trail starts at Maloney’s Beach where you can snorkel between colourful reefs and diverse marine life. Next, head to Sunshine Cove Beach to swim through vibrant coral gardens and encounter endemic fish species like red morwong, luderick, and bream.
The trail ends at Guerilla Bay where you can snorkel through crystal-clear waters and ancient rock formations. Then, you can finish your snorkelling adventure with a relaxing picnic or a walk to Burrewurra Point to discover a WWII bunker.
Exploring Batemans Bay: Your complete guide to what to do in Batemans Bay
Want more things to do in Batemans Bay? Here’s a complete breakdown!
Unique things to do in Batemans Bay
Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience? Try these unique activities:
- Explore the Batemans Bay mural trail: Discover vibrant street art scattered throughout the town.
- Pizza and Paddle Guided Kayak Tour: Combine kayaking with delicious pizza on a unique river tour.
- Visit the Old Mogo Lolly Shop: Lots of Lollies is Mogo’s original lolly shop. It has over 500 varieties of lollies, plus over 40 Mogo Fudge and Ice Cream flavours.
Things to do in Batemans Bay for families
Get the whole family involved with these fun activities:
- Meet snow leopards and Sumatran tigers at Mogo Wildlife Park: Head out on a wildlife adventure and encounter exotic animals from around the world.
- Spend a day at Batemans Bay Beach: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles on the pristine shores.
- Spend a day at Cullendulla Creek Nature Reserve: Explore a raised mangrove boardwalk and enjoy swimming, picnicking, and marine life spotting.
Free things to do in Batemans Bay
If you’re travelling on a budget, here are some fun activities that are absolutely free to enjoy:
- Hike the Cullendulla Beach Track: Enjoy stunning coastal views and fresh sea air on this scenic walk.
- Visit Corrigans Beach: This beautiful stretch of sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach also has a shared walking/cycling path.
- Take in the views at Big Bit Lookout: For breathtaking views of the Budawang Mountains and Durras Lake, head to Big Bit Lookout.
Things to do in Batemans Bay for couples
Here are some great ways to spend some quality couple time:
- Sunset cruise on the Clyde River: Enjoy a romantic evening on the water with a twilight dinner cruise on the Clyde River.
- Wine tasting at local vineyards: Explore the nearby wineries in the region, where you can enjoy wine tastings and picturesque vineyard views.
- Go kayaking or canoeing on the Clyde River: Paddle through serene waterways and mangrove forests, and spot native wildlife.
Things to do in Batemans Bay when raining
Don’t let the weather dampen your holiday. Here are some things to do when it’s raining:
- Pamper yourself with a spa treatment: Many local spas offer a range of treatments, from massages to facials, perfect for unwinding on a rainy day.
- Enjoy a cosy meal at a local cafe or restaurant: Warm up with a hot drink and delicious food.
- Catch a movie at Perry Street Cinema: Enjoy the latest blockbusters or independent films in a cosy, local cinema.
Things to do in Batemans Bay in winter
Here are some great ways to make the most of the winter season:
- Try your hand at fishing and crabbing: Take advantage of the quieter winter season to enjoy fishing or crabbing in the Clyde River.
- Explore the Durras Discovery Trail: This trail offers beautiful views of Lake Durras and showcases the region’s diverse flora, including ferns and spotted gums.
- Join a Glass Bottom Kayak Tour: Paddle over tidal sand flats while spotting local wildlife, such as stingrays and sea worms.
Explore Batemans Bay by car
From scenic coastal drives to hinterland adventures, there’s really no better way to get around Batemans Bay than with your own set of wheels. Experience the freedom to travel and explore at your own pace with a rental car on Turo. Browse a wide selection of rental cars from local hosts on Turo and book the perfect vehicle for your trip.
From rugged 4WD for off-road explorations or sleek sedans for a romantic weekend getaway, we’ve got you covered. Start planning your adventure in Batemans Bay today and hit the road with Turo!
Zoe Ng
Zoe is a writer from Malaysia who now calls Sydney home. With a background in crafting engaging campaigns and writing for one of Asia’s largest airlines, Zoe loves creating compelling travel content and sharing her experiences and insights. When she’s not off planning her next big trip, Zoe enjoys discovering new food spots and living vicariously through Google Maps.
