Top Things to do in Bendalong
Bendalong is a peaceful coastal village on the NSW South Coast, located within the Shoalhaven region. Situated approximately 231 km south of Sydney (a scenic 3 to 3.5-hour drive along the Princes Highway), Bendalong is renowned for its untouched beaches, calm waterways, and abundant native wildlife. It serves as an ideal destination for travellers looking for a relaxed, nature-focused coastal escape away from busy commercial hubs.
1. Explore the beaches of Bendalong
Relax at Washerwoman’s Beach
Washerwoman’s Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Bendalong, known for its sheltered setting and relaxed atmosphere. It is a great choice for families and visitors wanting an easy beach day with swimming, paddling and picnicking.
Things to do at Washerwoman’s Beach
- Family swimming and paddleboarding: The sheltered bay provides calm conditions for swimming, paddling and enjoying a relaxed beach day with family.
- Pet-friendly beach experience: Washerwoman’s Beach offers 24-hour off-leash access, allowing dogs to enjoy the sand and shoreline.
- Beachside BBQ and picnics: Washerwomens Beach Reserve features free electric BBQs, picnic shelters and grassy areas, making it a convenient spot for a coastal picnic.
- Snorkelling and bird watching: Explore the rock platforms and surrounding coastal environment. Remember to bring your own snorkelling or water activity gear, as rental options are limited and may require a 25–30 minute drive (Lake Conjola Post Office Store) to get there. The area is also great for spotting native birds.
Things to know before visiting Washerwoman’s Beach
- Address: Washerwomans Beach, North Bendalong Road, Bendalong NSW 2539, Australia
- Price: Free of charge.
- No Lifeguards On Duty: This beach is entirely unpatrolled by lifesavers. While the waters are naturally very calm and protected from large swell, you must always supervise children closely while they swim.
- Bring Your Own Supplies: There are no shops, food kiosks, or drinking water taps directly on the sand. You must pack your own food, drinking water, umbrellas, and sunscreen.
Visit Boat Harbour Beach
Things to do at Boat Harbour Beach
- Meet the Bendalong Stingrays: This is the most iconic experience here. Smooth stingrays and Southern eagle rays frequently swim into the shallow waters, especially around the boat ramp. You do not need to feed the stingrays for them to come and say hi.
- Snorkeling: The crystal-clear water allows you to easily see all the way to the sandy bottom. Simply put on a mask and snorkel around the rocky edges of the bay to watch the rays and schools of small fish darting about.
- Coastal Camping: The beach sits right next to the Holiday Haven Bendalong. You can pitch a tent or park a campervan here to enjoy a beachside holiday where you are only a few steps away from the water.
Things to know before visiting Boat Harbour Beach
- Address: Boat Harbour Beach, Bendalong NSW 2539, Australia
- Price: Free of charge.
- Stingray Safety Rules: While the stingrays here are very used to people and friendly, they are still wild animals and possess venomous barbs on their tails.
- Amenities: The area features a small parking lot, public toilets, a picnic area, and an outdoor freshwater shower.
2. Enjoy fishing and water activities around Bendalong
Best fishing locations around Bendalong
Fishing is a popular activity around Bendalong, with opportunities available along beaches, rocky coastline and nearby waterways.
It is a simple way for families and visitors to enjoy the outdoors, whether spending a quiet morning by the water or exploring different fishing locations throughout the South Coast.
| Fishing Spot | Address | Fishing Experience | Species Commonly Caught |
| Inyadda Beach | Inyadda Beach, Bendalong NSW 2539 | Popular beach fishing location with sand gutters and deeper channels suitable for surf casting | Tailor, Australian salmon, jewfish |
| Berringer Lake | Berringer Lake, Bendalong NSW 2539 | Quiet estuary fishing location with calm waters, ideal for families and relaxed fishing sessions | Flathead, bream, whiting |
| Monument Beach | Monument Beach, Bendalong 2539 | Popular beach fishing location with sand gutters and deeper channels suitable for surf casting | Tailor, Australian salmon, jewfish |
Calm-Water Activities in Bendalong
Snorkelling & Diving Around Flat Rock Beach
The rocky coastline around Flat Rock Beach provides opportunities for snorkelling and diving in clear coastal waters. The protected rock pools and reef structures create natural habitats for a variety of marine life, making it a rewarding spot for visitors who want to explore beneath the surface.
With calm conditions, snorkellers may spot colourful fish, octopus and other marine species moving around the rocky areas. The best experience often comes on days with good visibility, lighter winds and calmer ocean conditions.
Things to know before snorkelling or diving:
- Check ocean conditions, tides and weather forecasts before entering the water.
- Wear appropriate safety equipment, including reef shoes if exploring rocky areas.
- Avoid touching marine life or standing on reef structures to help protect the environment.
- Beginners should stay in shallow, calm areas and explore with a companion.
- Bring your own snorkelling equipment, as local rental options may be limited.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding & Kayaking
For a more relaxed way to explore Bendalong’s waterways, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities on sheltered waters. The calm conditions around Washerwomans Beach make it suitable for gentle paddling, while Berringer Lake offers a peaceful estuary environment surrounded by natural bushland.
These locations allow visitors to enjoy the coastline from a different perspective, with opportunities to spot birdlife, explore quiet corners of the waterways and enjoy a slower outdoor adventure.
Things to know before paddleboarding or kayaking:
- Calm mornings are often the best time to paddle, with lighter winds and smoother water conditions.
- Check local weather and water conditions before heading out.
- Wear a personal flotation device (PFD), especially when paddling further from shore.
- Bring sun protection, drinking water and suitable clothing for changing conditions.
- Beginners should stay close to shore and avoid unfamiliar waterways.
3. Discover nature and wildlife around Bendalong
Top nature activities to do around Bendalong
- Bike Riding: Conjola National Park that surrounds Bendalong offers unsealed trails through coastal heathlands and turpentine forests.
- Friendly Kangaroos: Large troops of Eastern Grey kangaroos roam freely through the village, the Bendalong Holiday Park, and the surrounding bushland, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Birdwatching: The canopy is alive with vibrant birdlife, including colorful rainbow lorikeets, king parrots, kookaburras, and sea eagles soaring over the cliffs.
Things to know before you explore
- Keep a safe distance and respect wildlife: Kangaroos are wild animals, even when they are familiar with visitors. Avoid touching, chasing or blocking their movement.
- Do not feed wild animals: Human food can make kangaroos sick and change their natural behaviour.
- Drive carefully around wildlife areas: Kangaroos are most active at dawn and dusk. Slow down when driving through Bendalong’s bushland roads and stay alert for wildlife crossing.
- Prepare for bike riding: Wear comfortable enclosed shoes, bring drinking water, wear sun protection and use insect repellent when exploring tracks or natural areas around Conjola National Park.
4. Explore nearby South Coast towns
Visit Milton Town
Located approximately 23km from Bendalong (around 20 minutes by car), Milton is a historic South Coast town known for its heritage streets, boutique shops, cafes and local food experiences.
| Experience | Location | Distance from Bendalong | What to Expect |
| Explore Milton Heritage Main Street | Princes Highway, Milton NSW 2538 | Approx. 23km (20-minute drive) | Take a walk through Milton’s historic town centre, known for its preserved 19th-century buildings, heritage architecture and charming streetscape. |
| Milton Theatre | 69 Princes Highway, Milton NSW 2538 | Approx. 23km (20-minute drive) | Visit this historic theatre for live music, comedy shows, performances and local events in an intimate heritage setting. |
| Nomah | Unit 6/41 Wason St, Milton NSW 2538 | Approx. 22.8km (20-minute drive) | Bringing inspiration and flavours from the Middle East, Nomah is a small Milton restaurant serving vibrant, flavour-led dishes in an intimate setting. |
| Woodstock Chocolate Co. | 92 Princes Hwy, Milton NSW 2538, | Approx. 23km (20-minute drive) | Visit this local chocolate shop and cafe to enjoy handcrafted chocolates, sweet treats, coffee and locally made products. |
| Baar Baar Milton | Shop 3/65 Princes Hwy, Milton NSW 2538 | Approx. 23km (23-minute drive) | Enjoy authentic Indian cuisine in the heart of Milton, featuring a range of traditional dishes, aromatic spices and modern Indian flavours. |
Visit Ulladulla Town
Located approximately 30 km from Bendalong (around 30 minutes by car), Ulladulla is a convenient nearby town for visitors looking for dining, shopping, entertainment and essential services during their South Coast holiday.
| Experience | Location | Distance from Bendalong | What to Expect |
| Mollymook Golf Club | 72 Golf Ave, Mollymook NSW 2539 | Approx. 29 km (30-minute drive) | Enjoy a round of golf in a scenic coastal setting, with beautiful views across the South Coast. |
| Native. Cafe | Shop 2/84 Princes Hwy, Ulladulla NSW 2539 | Approx. 29.8 km (30-minute drive) | Stop by for coffee, breakfast and casual dining while exploring Ulladulla. |
| Hayden’s Pies | Shop 2/166 Princes Hwy, Ulladulla NSW 2539 | Approx. 30 km (30-minute drive) | Try classic Australian pies and takeaway treats from this popular local bakery. |
| Dunn Lewis Centre | 141 St Vincent St, Ulladulla NSW 2539 | Approx. 30.1 km (30-minute drive) | Enjoy family-friendly entertainment including ten-pin bowling, making it a great option for families or rainy days. |
| Warden Head Lighthouse | Deering St, Ulladulla NSW 2539 | Approx. 31.3 km (35-minute drive) | Visit this historic coastal lighthouse for panoramic ocean views, photography opportunities and a relaxing coastal walk. |
5. Choosing the right accommodation to explore Bendalong
Whether you are planning a family beach holiday, a group getaway or a trip with your pet, South Coast Holidays offers accommodation options around Bendalong to suit different travel styles.
| Property | Best For | Sleeps | Key Features | Nearby Highlights |
| Elanora | Couples & small families | 4 | Classic beach cottage, sunroom, BBQ area, retro kitchen | Washerwoman’s Beach 450m, Bendalong Store & Cafe 300m, Boat Harbour Beach 850m |
| Lago | Couples & small families | 4 | Renovated interiors, balcony, BBQ, outdoor shower, 2 bathrooms | Flat Rock Beach 300m, Nerrindillah Creek Outlet 1.5km |
| Nautilus | Families, groups & pet-friendly stays | 6 | Fully fenced yard, undercover verandas, BBQ, Wi-Fi, fireplace | Dee Beach 260m, Flat Rock Beach 300m, Bendalong General Store & Cafe 1.4km |
| Belong At Bendalong | Large & multi-generational families | 10 | 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, separate living areas, multiple kitchen facilities, water-view deck | Boat Harbour Beach 400m, Bendalong Headland 600m, Backshot Cave 800m |
Which Bendalong stay suits you?
- Choose Elanora for a simple, cosy beach cottage close to the village and local beaches.
- Choose Lago for a more modern coastal stay with stylish interiors and outdoor living.
- Choose Nautilus if you’re travelling with pets and want a fully fenced yard close to the beach.
- Choose Belong At Bendalong for larger families or groups needing more bedrooms, bathrooms and separate living spaces.
6. Frequently asked questions about Bendalong
Where can you see the Bendalong stingrays?
You can spot the friendly stingrays around the Boat Harbour Beach boat ramp area. They are often seen in the shallow waters near the shore, where they come close to feed on leftover fish scraps from local fishermen.
Are Bendalong beaches safe for children?
Washerwoman’s Beach and Boat Harbour Beach are popular choices for families thanks to their sheltered coastal settings. These beaches are ideal for swimming, paddling and stand-up paddleboarding.
Are dogs allowed on Bendalong beaches?
Yes. Some beaches around Bendalong offer dog-friendly areas, including Washerwomans Beach, which provides an off-leash area where dogs can enjoy running along the sand and exploring the shoreline.
What wildlife can you see in Bendalong?
Bendalong is surrounded by natural landscapes, including the nearby Conjola National Park, making it a great destination for wildlife experiences. Visitors may spot native wildlife such as kangaroos, local bird species and pelicans around the coastline, bushland and surrounding areas.
What facilities and dining options are available in Bendalong?
Bendalong has local essentials including the Bendalong General Store & Cafe for coffee, takeaway food and supplies. Most South Coast Holidays properties include fully equipped kitchens and BBQ facilities, allowing guests to shop locally and enjoy relaxed home-cooked meals during their stay.
What are the most popular accommodation options in Bendalong?
Bendalong offers a range of stays, including holiday homes, cabins and camping options. South Coast Holidays provides private holiday homes in Bendalong, offering comfortable spaces for families, couples and groups with features such as self-contained kitchens, outdoor areas and easy access to nearby beaches and coastal activities.
