Canberra, Australia’s inland capital, is located about 150 kilometers from the eastern coastline, making it relatively easy for residents to escape to nearby beaches for holidays. Although Canberra itself lacks a coastline, its proximity to some of the country’s most stunning beaches offers Canberrans an array of coastal retreats, ideal for short getaways, weekend trips, or extended vacations. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot, secluded coves, or surf havens, there are plenty of beaches within driving distance of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
This article explores 10 of the nearest beaches for Canberrans, highlighting what makes each beach unique, how far it is from Canberra, and why it is worth the visit. These beaches span across New South Wales’ South Coast, one of the most beautiful and less commercialized coastal stretches in the country.
1. Hyams Beach
Distance from Canberra: Approximately 220 km, 2.5-3 hour drive.
Why Visit: Hyams Beach, located in Jervis Bay, is famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world. This idyllic beach is a favorite for Canberrans because of its picturesque beauty, clear blue waters, and tranquil ambiance. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, Hyams Beach is also a great spot for families due to its calm waters. It is part of the Jervis Bay Marine Park, offering various nature walks and opportunities to see dolphins and migrating whales.
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, dolphin watching, and walking along the White Sands Walk.
Accommodation: A range of options, including vacation homes, beach cottages, and boutique hotels, are available in nearby Huskisson and Vincentia.
2. Mollymook Beach
Distance from Canberra: 195 km, around a 2.5-hour drive.
Why Visit: Mollymook is one of the South Coast’s most popular beaches, especially among surfers. It has long stretches of golden sand, offering perfect conditions for surfing, swimming, and beach fishing. The beach is patrolled during peak times, making it family-friendly. The nearby town offers excellent restaurants and accommodations, with famous golf courses nearby for those looking for extra activities.
Activities: Surfing, swimming, fishing, and coastal walks. The Bogey Hole rock pool nearby is great for families with young children.
Accommodation: Beach resorts, holiday rentals, and camping grounds in nearby Ulladulla.
3. Batemans Bay Beaches
Distance from Canberra: 150 km, 2-hour drive.
Why Visit: Batemans Bay is one of the closest coastal towns to Canberra, and its beaches are ideal for quick getaways. There are several beaches in the area, including Maloney’s Beach, Corrigans Beach, and Surf Beach, each offering something different. Maloney’s Beach is a quieter spot, while Surf Beach caters to surfers. Batemans Bay is also well-known for its seafood, particularly oysters, making it an attractive spot for foodies.
Activities: Swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing, and dining. Eurobodalla National Park is nearby, offering scenic bushwalks and wildlife experiences.
Accommodation: Motels, hotels, caravan parks, and holiday homes.
4. Pebbly Beach
Distance from Canberra: 200 km, about a 2.5-hour drive.
Why Visit: Located in Murramarang National Park, Pebbly Beach is famous for its resident kangaroos that often graze on the sand, making it a unique beach experience. Pebbly Beach offers a tranquil environment surrounded by lush forests, perfect for nature lovers. The beach is also great for swimming and snorkeling in calm waters, with coastal walks providing scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, bushwalking, and wildlife viewing (especially kangaroos).
Accommodation: Campsites are available at the national park, as well as holiday cabins and nearby vacation rentals.
5. Narrawallee Beach
Distance from Canberra: 200 km, around a 2.5-hour drive.
Why Visit: Narrawallee Beach is located near Mollymook but offers a quieter alternative. With a long stretch of fine sand, it’s perfect for long beach walks, swimming, and surfing. The northern end of the beach has a lagoon that’s great for young families and kids to splash around in safely. The beach is surrounded by the lush Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve, providing hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Activities: Surfing, swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, and hiking in the nearby reserve.
Accommodation: Holiday rentals, campsites, and boutique accommodations in nearby Ulladulla and Mollymook.
6. Surf Beach, Kiama
Distance from Canberra: 245 km, around a 3-hour drive.
Why Visit: Kiama is known for its stunning beaches and the famous Kiama Blowhole. Surf Beach, the main beach in Kiama, offers excellent conditions for surfers and swimmers alike. The town’s laid-back vibe and historic attractions make it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. For families, the nearby Kendall’s Beach offers gentler waves, and there are several walking tracks around Kiama’s stunning coastline.
Activities: Surfing, swimming, visiting the Kiama Blowhole, and coastal walks.
Accommodation: Various options ranging from boutique hotels, motels, and holiday rentals to caravan parks.
7. Guerilla Bay
Distance from Canberra: 160 km, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by car.
Why Visit: Guerilla Bay is a hidden gem that offers a more secluded and quiet beach experience compared to some of the larger, more popular beaches. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and bushland, it’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing retreat. The clear waters and surrounding rock formations make Guerilla Bay a fantastic spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life.
Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, picnicking, and bushwalking.
Accommodation: Nearby Batemans Bay and Mossy Point provide accommodation options, including beach cottages and holiday rentals.
8. Broulee Beach
Distance from Canberra: 165 km, about a 2-hour and 20-minute drive.
Why Visit: Broulee Beach is a long, sandy beach that is ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts. The beach is divided into two sections: North Broulee, which is great for families due to its sheltered bay, and South Broulee, which is popular with surfers. The nearby Broulee Island is connected to the mainland via a sandbar and offers fantastic walking tracks with beautiful coastal views.
Activities: Surfing, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and exploring Broulee Island.
Accommodation: Holiday homes, beachfront apartments, and caravan parks.
9. Depot Beach
Distance from Canberra: 190 km, around a 2.5-hour drive.
Why Visit: Depot Beach, located in the Murramarang National Park, offers a secluded retreat for Canberrans looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it is ideal for camping, hiking, and exploring nature. Depot Beach is also great for swimming, snorkeling, and birdwatching, with dolphins often spotted offshore. The calm waters and pristine environment make it a favorite for families and couples.
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, bushwalking, wildlife viewing, and camping.
Accommodation: The national park offers campgrounds, with additional options like cabins and holiday rentals nearby.
10. Tilbury Cove
Distance from Canberra: 215 km, around a 3-hour drive.
Why Visit: Tilbury Cove is part of Culburra Beach and offers a peaceful spot for swimming and relaxation. Its sheltered waters make it perfect for families with young children, while surfers can head to nearby Warrain Beach for more challenging waves. The town of Culburra offers a relaxed, beachy vibe and is also close to the famous Crookhaven Heads Lighthouse, where visitors can take in panoramic coastal views.
Activities: Swimming, beachcombing, surfing at nearby Warrain Beach, and exploring the lighthouse.
Accommodation: Holiday homes, motels, and camping options in Culburra Beach.
Conclusion
Canberra’s proximity to some of the most beautiful and serene beaches on Australia’s South Coast makes it an ideal home base for beach lovers. Whether it’s the white sands of Hyams Beach, the surf-friendly shores of Mollymook, or the tranquil seclusion of Guerilla Bay, there’s something for every type of traveler. These coastal retreats offer a range of activities from surfing and swimming to snorkeling and wildlife watching, providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a variety of accommodation options, from campgrounds to luxury resorts, these beaches are accessible and suitable for every budget.
