Explore Narooma

The perfect holiday destination

A coastal town with superb beaches and abundant wildlife

Set on foreshores wrapped around the Wagonga River estuary, Narooma’s 348 km south of Sydney with a population of 3,500.

So much to see and do!

From canoeing to fishing, surfing and sandcastle-building, Narooma and its lazy, winding river were made for summer holidays. The seas around Montague Island, just 11 km off Narooma, teem with marine life making the island a haven for sea birds and seals, once a hunting ground for the local Wallaga and Djiringanj people. Montague Island has the State’s only known colony of Australian fur seals as well as sea eagles, little penguins, mutton birds, hawks, terns, silver gulls, harriers and peregrine falcons.

The town has just about everything you need to make the most of its natural credentials, including various accommodation and dining options, sports shops and boat charter operators. Narooma Golf Course is rated one of the country’s finest – a breathtaking course set on clifftops above a raging sea. Narooma is also known for its amazing, fresh seafood and some of the world’s best oysters.

Beaches

An almost endless stretch of unspoilt beaches.

Narooma boasts an endless stretch of pristine coastline. Visitors enjoy long beach walks (often having the whole beach to themselves), taking in the endless vistas and exploring the rocks & native wildlife. Nesting seabirds, eagles and more – you may even spot an emu! 

There’s two surf beaches – Dalmeny and Narooma Surf Beach, both patrolled in peak summer periods, as well as Bar Beach Narooma which has a netted area. Protected by the bar and from the main Wagonga Inlet channel, it is a very safe place to swim.

 

Fishing

Beach fishing, estuary fishing or off-shore!

The former home to fishing personality Rex Hunt, you better believe Narooma has got it sorted when it comes to fishing. Narooma’s Wagonga Inlet and Mummaga Lake in Dalmeny are popular choices for those with smaller boats or just fishing from the jetty. Go prawning, crabbing, or catch squid, bream, flathead and jewfish. 

You can also throw in a line from the beach, Hankerchief beach being a top spot for snapper & salmon. You’re guaranteed a top time with any of the fishing charters, who’ll take you out to the waters surrounding Montague Island or even further to the continental shelf for some big game fish action. Guaranteed whopper flatheads! You’ll see plenty of snapper too and the fish everyone wants – kingfish!

Bushwalks & Cycling

Lose yourself in nature

Narooma is surrounded by vast expanses of national parks and forest. Go to the Visitor Information Centre to find out about some of the popular bushwalks – there’s options for the intrepid and shorter walks for those taking it easy.  You can also enjoy the Boardwalk – which reaches from the Narooma Bridge to the main boat ramp near Bar Beach. Take a stroll and see what you can find… depending on the day you’ll be able to see all types of fish, octopus, soldier crabs, seals, pelicans and sea eagles.

From Dalmeny to Narooma is a fantastic pathway for walkers and cyclists. It’s an easy ride and a great way to see the coastline and whales from late September through November.

 

Montague Island

Breath taking & unique, with abundant history.

Montague Island has a functioning lighthouse that’s been in operation since the 1800s. Home to seals, nesting seabirds and a colony of penguins, Montague Island is a very unique location popular with tourists and scientists.

Take a tour to the island, and enjoy snorkelling with incredible clarity, swimming with the friendly seals or a guided island tour, where a National Parks guide will tell you about the indigenous significance of this special place as well as its European history. Check out the Lighthouse keeper’s quarters and climb up the lighthouse itself for unparalleled views!

Dining Out

While you’re on holiday, indulge yourself at cafes and restaurants. 

Whether in Narooma or nearby Dalmeny & Tilba, there’s plenty of options you’ll enjoy when it comes to dining out. At the “flat” in Narooma, there’s a selection of Thai, a Hot Chicken and Kebab take outs, Fish & Chips, cafes and a favourite with the kids – the Narooma Ice Creamery. 

There’s also Club Narooma, the Golf Club for beverages and club dining, and some great Italian, Indian and Chinese restaurants further up the hill. On the foreshore of Wagonga Inlet at Forsters Bay, there’s the Quarterdeck which often features live music, and The Inlet for burgers during the day or formal restaurant settings. The Whale Restaurant provides an exceptional dining setting with a view.

 

Movies

Visit one of Australia’s oldest cinemas!

In it’s original art deco style, this quaint 1920’s cinema is one of the few standing in Australia. Completely renovated, it really is a treat – like taking a step back in time. Everyone enjoys the ice cream (try their famous home-made choc tops!), snacks and popcorn. 

Narooma Kinema is a heritage listed building and has been operating since 1928. The Kinema is air conditioned and serves quality coffee. It also has wheelchair access.