10 Best Things to Do in Sussex Inlet, NSW
Looking for the best things to do in Sussex Inlet? This peaceful coastal town on the NSW South Coast is known for its beautiful waterways, sandy beaches and relaxed holiday atmosphere. From cruising along the inlet on a pontoon boat and paddleboarding across calm lakes to enjoying waterfront dining and exploring nearby national parks, Sussex Inlet offers plenty of experiences for every type of traveller.
Located in the Shoalhaven region, approximately three hours’ drive from Sydney and Canberra, Sussex Inlet is an ideal destination for families, couples and groups seeking a coastal getaway. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, here are 10 of the best activities to include in your Sussex Inlet itinerary.
1. Hire a Pontoon Boat and Cruise Along Sussex Inlet
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Sussex Inlet is exploring its picturesque waterways aboard a pontoon boat. Stretching approximately seven kilometres between St Georges Basin and the Pacific Ocean, the inlet winds past waterfront homes, peaceful bushland and scenic stretches of shoreline.
Sussex Inlet Pontoons offers spacious pontoon boats for families and groups who want to explore at their own pace. Depending on the vessel, you can enjoy comfortable shaded seating and onboard facilities while cruising along the sheltered waterways.
Pack a picnic, bring your favourite refreshments and spend a few hours discovering the canals and surrounding natural scenery. It’s an especially appealing option for groups looking to enjoy a relaxed day together on the water.
Location: 3 Nielson Lane, Sussex Inlet.
Cost: From AUD 350 for a morning or afternoon hire, with full-day options from AUD 550.
Good to know: Previous boating experience is required for self-drive bookings, although a boating licence is not required for eligible vessels. Guided cruises are also available.
2. Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Swan Lake or Berrara Lagoon
For a more active way to explore the area’s natural beauty, try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Swan Lake or Berrara Lagoon. Both locations offer scenic waterways surrounded by coastal vegetation, making them popular destinations for paddlers of different experience levels.
Sussex Inlet Stand Up Paddle & Fitness provides SUP board hire, lessons and guided experiences. Beginners can learn basic paddling and balancing techniques before heading onto the water, while experienced paddlers can explore suitable sections independently.
The operator also offers group activities, making paddleboarding an excellent option for families with older children or friends travelling together.
Location: Swan Lake, Cudmirrah, and Berrara Lagoon, Berrara.
Cost: Board hire starts from AUD 40 for 1.5 hours. Lessons start from approximately AUD 70 per person for two-person bookings.
Good to know: Advance bookings are required. Choose a day with suitable wind and water conditions for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
3. Enjoy Craft Beer and Waterfront Dining at Swordfish Brewing
After spending the day exploring Sussex Inlet, unwind at Swordfish Brewing, a waterfront brewery and restaurant overlooking the beautiful inlet.
Located along Jacobs Drive, the venue combines a relaxed coastal atmosphere with locally brewed craft beers and a menu featuring fresh produce. Its outdoor dining area offers lovely views across the water, where you can watch boats passing while enjoying a leisurely meal.
Sample one of the house-brewed beers alongside wood-fired pizza, seafood or other seasonal dishes. The venue also hosts entertainment and special events on selected dates, adding to its lively atmosphere.
Location: 187D Jacobs Drive, Sussex Inlet.
Cost: Food and drinks are priced individually; check the latest menu before visiting.
Good to know: Generally open Wednesday to Sunday, with extended trading during some holiday periods. Bookings are recommended during busy weekends.
4. Have a Relaxing Waterfront Brunch at Pelican Shores Café & Marina
Start your morning with breakfast and waterfront views at Pelican Shores Café & Marina, a popular local café overlooking Sussex Inlet.
Situated beside the marina, the café offers a relaxed setting where visitors can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, breakfast favourites and seafood dishes while taking in the surrounding water views.
Outdoor seating allows you to watch boats coming and going, with the possibility of spotting waterbirds along the shoreline. It’s an appealing choice for couples enjoying a slow morning or families wanting a convenient breakfast before heading out for the day.
The marina also offers boat, kayak and stand-up paddleboard hire, making it easy to combine a delicious meal with an adventure on the water.
Location: 28 Sussex Road, Sussex Inlet.
Cost: Menu prices vary depending on your order.
Good to know: The café generally opens Wednesday to Sunday, from 8 am to 3 pm, serving breakfast and lunch. Check the latest trading hours during school holidays.
5. Watch a Movie at the Historic Inlet Cinema
If you’re looking for something different from the usual beach and water activities, spend an afternoon at Inlet Cinema.
Located in the heart of Sussex Inlet, this independent cinema offers a nostalgic alternative to the large multiplexes found in major cities. Its intimate setting and traditional coastal-town character make it a charming place to enjoy a film.
The cinema screens current releases and selected special presentations, providing an enjoyable activity for families, couples and visitors looking for a quieter afternoon. It’s also one of the most convenient things to do in Sussex Inlet when it rains, particularly for families travelling with children.
Location: 173 Jacobs Drive, Sussex Inlet.
Cost: Standard admission is AUD 12.50 per person, with selected concession pricing available.
Good to know: Check the cinema’s weekly programme for current screening times and ticket availability.
6. Enjoy a Free Family Picnic and BBQ at Lions Park
For a relaxed and budget-friendly afternoon, head to Lions Park, a peaceful waterfront reserve located beside Sussex Inlet.
With grassy areas, picnic tables, shelters and public barbecue facilities, the park is an ideal setting for a traditional Australian family picnic. Bring your favourite BBQ ingredients, enjoy lunch outdoors and take in the views across the calm water.
Children can spend time at the playground while adults relax nearby. The reserve is also close to the local boat ramp, making it a pleasant place to watch boats travelling along the inlet.
Location: Lakehaven Drive, Sussex Inlet.
Cost: Free entry and use of public picnic facilities.
Facilities: Playground, BBQ areas, picnic tables, shelters, toilets and parking.
Good to know: Lions Park is intended for daytime recreation and is not a designated overnight camping area.
7. Try Fishing and Seasonal Prawning in Sussex Inlet
Fishing is one of Sussex Inlet’s most popular recreational activities, thanks to its extensive waterways and connection to nearby St Georges Basin.
The inlet provides opportunities for shore fishing, while boat hire allows experienced anglers to explore suitable fishing areas farther along the waterways. Commonly targeted species include bream, flathead and whiting.
Early mornings and late afternoons can be particularly enjoyable, offering peaceful surroundings and scenic views across the water. For families with children, a simple fishing session from a suitable public waterfront location can be a memorable holiday experience.
Seasonal prawning is another activity enjoyed in parts of the region. During favourable conditions, recreational fishers may catch prawns using permitted equipment in areas where prawning is allowed.
Location: Suitable fishing spots around Sussex Inlet and St Georges Basin.
Cost: Shore fishing is generally free where public access is permitted, although equipment and recreational fishing fees may apply.
Good to know: Most recreational fishers aged 18 and over must pay the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee unless exempt. Check current fishing regulations, bag limits, closures and permitted prawning equipment before heading out.
8. Go Surfing and Beach Walking at Cudmirrah Beach
The beach extends along an exposed section of the South Coast, with rolling waves that attract surfers when conditions are suitable. Its long shoreline also makes it an enjoyable place for a morning walk, particularly when the beach is quiet and the light is soft.
Visitors can spend time exploring the coastal scenery, photographing the ocean or simply relaxing on the sand. Rocky sections of the coastline may also reveal interesting formations and small marine creatures at low tide, provided conditions are safe. For those who prefer a peaceful beach experience away from the town centre, Cudmirrah Beach is well worth visiting.
Location: Cudmirrah Beach, near Sussex Inlet Surf Life Saving Club.
Cost: Free.
Good to know: Cudmirrah is an exposed surf beach, and conditions can change quickly. Swim between the red and yellow flags when lifesavers are on patrol.
9. Discover Native Wildlife and Bushwalking in Conjola National Park
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Conjola National Park, which stretches across coastal forests, lakes and waterways near Sussex Inlet.
CAs you explore, keep an eye out for native wildlife such as eastern grey kangaroos, echidnas and black cockatoos. During spring, the coastal heathland becomes especially attractive, with wildflowers adding colour to the landscape.
Visitors interested in cycling can explore trails such as Heath Circuit or the Walter Hood ride from Cudmirrah. Those seeking a quieter experience can enjoy a shorter bushwalk, birdwatching or exploring the waterways around Berrara Creek.
With its combination of coastal scenery and native wildlife, Conjola National Park is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Location: Conjola National Park, accessible via Goonawarra Drive and The Springs Road.
Cost: No general park entry fee.
Good to know: Some access roads are unsealed and suitable for driving only in dry weather. Check NSW National Parks alerts and trail conditions before visiting.
10. Take a Whale-Watching Cruise from Nearby Jervis Bay
For a memorable day trip from Sussex Inlet, consider joining a whale-watching cruise from Huskisson in nearby Jervis Bay.
Located approximately 30 minutes north of Sussex Inlet by car, Huskisson is a popular departure point for marine wildlife tours. During the annual migration season, humpback whales travel along the NSW coastline, providing opportunities to observe these magnificent animals in their natural environment.
From May to August, whales generally migrate north, sometimes displaying impressive behaviours such as breaching and tail slapping. Between September and November, the southward migration can bring mothers and calves into the waters around Jervis Bay.
Operators such as Jervis Bay Wild offer guided cruises departing from Huskisson Public Wharf. Along the way, visitors can also enjoy views of the bay’s rugged coastline and surrounding marine environment.
Location: Huskisson Public Wharf, Jervis Bay.
Cost: Cruise prices vary by operator and departure date.
Season: Generally mid-May to mid-November.
Good to know: Tours are weather-dependent, and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Book ahead during the peak migration season.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Sussex Inlet?
Sussex Inlet is a year-round holiday destination, although the best time to visit depends on the experiences you’re looking for.
Summer (December to February) is ideal for swimming, boating, paddleboarding and beach activities. The warmer weather attracts families during school holidays, making it one of the liveliest periods in the area.
Autumn (March to May) offers comfortable conditions for fishing, coastal walks and relaxed weekend getaways, with fewer visitors than the summer holiday period.
Winter (June to August) is an appealing time for quieter coastal escapes, while the beginning of the annual whale migration creates opportunities for wildlife tours in nearby Jervis Bay.
Spring (September to November) is especially rewarding for bushwalking, cycling and exploring Conjola National Park, where native wildflowers brighten the coastal landscape.
Whatever the season, checking the local weather and marine conditions will help you make the most of your time outdoors.
Find Your Perfect Sussex Inlet Holiday Accommodation with South Coast Holidays
After discovering the best things to do in Sussex Inlet, choosing the right place to stay is the next step towards a memorable coastal getaway. Whether you’re planning a family holiday filled with boating and fishing, a relaxing weekend by the water or a group escape with friends, comfortable accommodation gives you the freedom to enjoy the area at your own pace.
South Coast Holidays is a locally focused holiday accommodation specialist managing a curated collection of more than 100 properties across the NSW South Coast. In Sussex Inlet, guests can choose from waterfront holiday homes with private jetties, comfortable family retreats and spacious properties suited to larger groups..
Explore our Sussex Inlet holiday accommodation and find the perfect holiday home for your next South Coast getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sussex Inlet
What are the best things to do in Sussex Inlet with kids?
Families can enjoy pontoon boat cruises, paddleboarding in suitable sheltered waterways, beach visits and picnics at Lions Park. Inlet Cinema also offers an indoor entertainment option, while nearby Jervis Bay provides seasonal whale-watching experiences for families.
What are the best free things to do in Sussex Inlet?
Popular free activities include walking along Cudmirrah Beach, enjoying a family picnic or BBQ at Lions Park and exploring Conjola National Park. Fishing from suitable public locations can also be an affordable activity, although NSW recreational fishing fees may apply.
Can you hire a boat in Sussex Inlet without a licence?
Yes, some local operators offer self-drive vessels that do not require a boating licence. However, individual operators may require previous boating experience, and hire conditions vary by vessel. Always confirm the requirements before booking.
What can you do in Sussex Inlet when it rains?
Inlet Cinema is a convenient option for families and couples looking for indoor entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxed meal at local cafés and restaurants or spend time unwinding at their holiday accommodation.
Is Sussex Inlet worth visiting for a weekend?
Yes. Sussex Inlet is ideal for a weekend getaway, offering boating, fishing, beaches, national park activities and waterfront dining within a relatively compact area. A two- or three-day stay provides enough time to enjoy several highlights without rushing between attractions.
How far is Sussex Inlet from Sydney and Canberra?
Sussex Inlet is approximately three hours’ drive from both Sydney and Canberra, depending on traffic and your starting point. Its location makes it a popular choice for weekend escapes and longer holidays on the NSW South Coast.
