Things to Do in Shoalhaven: Where to Eat, Drink, Stay & Play

Autumn is the perfect time to head south for a rejuvenating getaway – the water has been warming up all summer long, the nights are still balmy and the R&R is calling your name.

With 49 towns and villages, 100 stunning beaches, world-class dining, award-winning wineries and endless adventures and walks awaiting you, Shoalhaven offers it all. Read on for our full edit of things to do in Shoalhaven, including where to eat, drink stay and play. 

Motel Molly

Following a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, Motel Molly offers the perfect blend of classic South Coast charm with a modern edge. Perfectly positioned just a few sandy steps from Mollymook Beach, the 16-room motel oozes cool with its pastel tones, Mediterranean cool and a touch of Moroccan flair. A chic outdoor BBQ area overlooks the swimming pool, surrounded by deck chairs and scalloped Basil Bangs umbrellas which are perfect for escaping the sun with a good book and an Aperol Spritz. 

2 Shepherd Street, Mollymook 

Paperbark Camp

Glamping at its most luxurious, this safari-style retreat is in the heart of the bush, featuring 12 canvas tents each with a bed, ensuite (and in the deluxe rooms, a bath), hardwood deck and wrap-around veranda. The tents also feature roll-up walls, so you can decide how much you want to bring Mother Nature in. Paperbark also has an on-site restaurant The Gunyah which is an absolute must.

571 Woollamia Road, Woollamia

Stand Tall Retreats

Some people like to plan every detail of their holidays to the nth degree – and the rest of us prefer to take a holiday from the organisation altogether. Amy from Stand Tall Retreats does all the hard work for you. Her women-only retreats are designed to help you let go of the reigns and focus on finding yourself amongst the chaos. From luxurious accommodation to nourishing organic meals made by an in-house chef from only the best local produce, Stand Tall Retreats take care of everything for you. And because no retreat is complete without restorative activities, they fill your days with massages, facials, Pilates and yoga, meditation, reiki, horse riding, surfing and a whole lot of fun.

Hyams Beach

You could spend your entire weekend at Hyams Beach and still not have had your fill. Straight from a postcard, this idyllic beach boasts fine, white sand, crystal clear water and a tree-lined beach. In fact, it's famous for having the whitest sand in the world so definitely one you want to pop on your bucket list. Take a stroll down the beach, snorkel, relax and swim to your heart's content. 

Surf Camp Australia 

There’s nothing more exhilarating or empowering than mastering a new skill or taking on a new challenge and surfing has got to be up there with one of the best. The talented team at Surf Camp Australia in Gerroa offer group bookings or private classes, so you can ride the waves like a pro. From the thrill of being in the ocean to the energy it takes to paddle to finally letting go of the fear, you'll end up feeling exhilarated and energised (disclaimer you'll probably also not be able to feel your arms).

Regal Riding School 

There's just something oh so special and grounding about being out in nature. Whether it's horse riding on the beach, bush walks, exploring the many pristine waterways or looking up and star-gazing under a clear night sky, Shoalhaven delivers in spades when it comes to natural beauty. 

A short drive out of Berry, Monique and the team at Regal Riding School will immediately put you at ease. No matter what your experience level – from uneasy beginners to experienced riders – the team tailors the ride to ensure it's an experience you won't soon forget.  

Milk Haus 

Just a short drive from Mollymook, you'll find this absolute gem of a cafe. Tucked back from the main strip in Milton, Milk Haus is as farm-to-table as it gets. With their own onsite garden and chickens, each dish uses onsite produce as well as a few bits and bobs sourced from local producers. The menu changes with what is available each season but every last dish is guaranteed to impress. Garden fritters, garden tarts and elderflower spritzers are just a few of the delights you may encounter. 

Sitchu Tip: Whilst you're waiting for your meal take a wander around the kitchen garden. 

170 Woodstock Road, Woodstock 

Lagom Bakery 

If you're looking for somewhere to pick up picnic essentials for a day at the beach, look no further. Not only does Lagom Bakery boast one of the best croissants we've sample to date, they also craft an incredible range of breads and sourdoughs, viennoserie, pizza slabs and more. Their coffee is on point and they've got a range of local cheeses, dips and other goodies to shop as well. 

98 McDonald Parade, Burril Lake 

Cupitt’s Estate

Tucked away in Ulladulla, Cupitt's Estate ticks all the boozy boxes boasting both a winery and brewery on site. The perfect place to sample the estate’s signature cool climate drops, the intimate cellar door is a haven for wine connoisseurs offering guided tastings daily starting from $15. Post-tasting, make your way to Dusty's Garden Bar. Casual dining at its finest, settle in amongst the vines and sip your way across the property with both its craft brews and wines available behind the bar. Did we mention there’s a fromagerie on site as well?

58 Washburton Road, Ulladulla

Milkwood Bakery

Croissants or ciabatta, sourdough or sweet treats... Milkwood Bakery does it all. Equally as delicious as it is picturesque, this spot is at the top of our Berry hit list. Make sure you pick up the bakery's iconic sourdough. 

109 Queen Street, Berry

Rick Stein

Part of Bannisters by the Sea, Rick Stein is an icon on the South Coast, and for good reason. Known for its fresh and delicious seafood, it’s the perfect spot for a date night or a special occasion when in Mollymook. Before you’ve even glanced at the menu, this waterfront stunner will have you positively swooning. Sitting pretty atop the South Coast headland, the ocean views are unmatched. The menu is a seafood lover's dream, with standout dishes like succulent coconut chilli prawns, steamed whole snapper and a mouth-watering lobster thermidor. But the real star of the show? The oysters. Served up fresh or charentaise, an equal parts weird and wonderful combination served with hot, spicy sausage.

191 Mitchell Parade, Mollymook Beach

Hayden's Pies 

A trip to Mollymook is not complete without a visit to Hayden's Pies. This humble bakery has a cult following and it is not hard to see why once you've tasted one of their bakes. You can expect all of the classics alongside a rotating selection of delicious new combos. A few past favourites include butter chicken, kangaroo & beetroot and lamb vindaloo. We recommend popping by prior to lunch should you fancy the full selection. 

Sitchu Tip: They're so good you'll want to order two - don't fight the urge! 

2/166 Princes Highway, Ulladulla 

Jervis Bay Brewing Co.

This relaxed hangout lets you taste the flavours of Jervis Bay all in one spot. Be it in their taproom or beer garden, sit back with an icy beer, some that are brewed especially for the season, and a delicious meal from their ever-changing food truck offering. Check the website for what food truck will be pulling up that day, but expect local favourites, such as Nomad Kitchen & BBQ (woodfired smokey barbeque) and Mama Kim’s Kitchen (BBQ and Korean dishes). 

3 Duranbah Drive, Huskisson

Loved this edit of things to do in Shoalhaven and looking for more local gems in the area? Check out our guides to Berry and Mollymook.