Holiday houses in Moruya

Hugging the south bank of the Moruya River on the New South Wales South Coast, just over four hours’ drive south of Sydney, the small village of Moruya is home to some of the Eurobodalla region’s top draws. Moruya’s scenic Riverside Park plays host to two weekly markets: a farmers’ market on Tuesday afternoons and a country market showcasing arts, crafts, food, and more on Saturday mornings.

Nearby, Moruya’s main street is lined with hints of its pioneer past; learn more at the Moruya Museum, which houses artefacts from the town’s gold mining heyday. Overlooking the river is one of the region’s top fine-dining restaurants. Across the bridge, Historic Quarry Park is a peaceful picnic spot marking where granite was mined to clad the pylons and piers of Sydney Harbour Bridge. Just 10 minutes’ drive to the east, golden beaches stretch to the north and south of the river mouth.

Moruya is a year-round destination, but the balmy summer months are generally the most pleasant for water-based activities. While most visitors will find the ocean too cold for a swim during the winter months, the crisp days are ideal for bushwalking, with cooler nights made for relaxing in front of an open fire. Whales also arrive in winter, with Moruya Heads being a good place to spot them migrating along the coast between May and November. Held on the first weekend of May in nearby Narooma, the Narooma Oyster Festival offers a fantastic opportunity to sample regional produce in one location. Typically held in May, the River of Art Festival sees a long weekend of arts events held across the region.

Feasting on Oysters

The New South Wales South Coast is renowned for its oysters. Pacific, Sydney Rock, and Angasi oysters are grown in the region, ensuring a year-round supply of fresh shellfish. The most atmospheric places to sample local oysters are located next to the estuaries in which they’re grown at Batemans Bay, to the north of Moruya, and in Tuross Head and Narooma to the south. But you’ll also find oysters sold in shops, at markets, and at roadside stalls in Moruya and beyond.

Eurobodalla National Park

Hugging the coastline south of Moruya Heads, Eurobodalla National Park is home to the Bingi Dreaming Track, a 13.5-kilometre coastal walk that traces an ancient Songline (ancient wayfaring pathway) of the Brinja-Yuin people, the area’s Traditional Aboriginal Custodians. Look out for ancient middens (piles of shells and animal bones) and wildlife as you explore this special place. Cultural walking tours are also available at Bingie Bingie Point.

Tomaga River

A 15-minute drive north of Mouya, the idyllic Tomaga River is a beautiful place for a paddle, with kayak hire available near Mossy Point Lookout. Keep an eye out for large stingrays that frequent the waters around the boat ramp when anglers are cleaning their daily catch. Beautiful beaches can be found in Tomakin to the north and in Broulee to the south.