Gerringong

Highlights

Beach life

A classic Aussie beach town, Gerringong life revolves around its main beach, Werri Beach. Set on a long stretch of sand, it's split and bordered by Werri Lagoon on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Patrolled by lifeguards in warmer months, the beach draws swimmers and surfers alike, with reliable point breaks found at either end of the sand. Just south of Gerringong is Seven Mile Beach where Surf Camp Australia and Gerringong Surf School offer lessons on how to ride the waves.

Surfer catching a wave off Werri Beach, south of Kiama on the South Coast

Werri Beach, Gerringong

Ocean pools

Hundreds of ocean-fed rock pools stud the state’s coastlines. Among the most alluring is Ourie Pool located at the southern end of Werri Beach. Chiselled into the rock shelf and sporting a concrete floor, the waterhole features a wading pool for children.

Near Cooke Park, Boat Harbour Rock Pool is set amid natural rock foundations. This watery playground offers spectacular views over the headland. Dry off and make the most of barbeque facilities, picnic tables and a children’s playground – a neighbourhood favourite.

Scenic aerial over Ourie Pool off Werri Beach, Gerringong.

South Werri (Ourie) Ocean Pool, Gerringong

Outdoor activities

During the months of late May to July or September to November, take a drive to the Gerringong Whale Watching Platform to watch whales migrate. Enjoy a horse ride, riding lesson, or pony walk at Kimberly Park Stud. Walk part or all of the 20km Kiama Coast Walk. Start at Werri Beach and follow the mix of sealed paths, grass tracks, and beaches up to the mouth of the Minnamurra River with stunning views at every turn.

Golfers will enjoy the ocean views and beautifully manicured greens on the 18-hole course at Gerringong Golf Club, which occupies some of the most in-demand real estate on the South Coast. When you’ve finished your round head into the 19th-hole clubhouse for a cool beverage and light bite.

Friends running down to Gerringong beach, South Coast

Walkers Beach, Gerringong

Shop art & artisan

If you’re looking for local art, take a stroll to Fern Street Gallery which showcases established and emerging Australian artists. Peruse the interesting range of handmade homewares, artwork and fashion at The Collective Beat. This treasure trove of a store features stalls by different makers and creatives making it the perfect spot to find a unique souvenir of your trip. Visit the Gerringong Rotary Markets on the third Saturday of the month to meet more local producers or see what's on in the events calendar.

Fern Street Gallery - Credit: KB John Harris

Local wines & beers

Toast your arrival in the region at Crooked River Estate. Pair their wines with a meal in the restaurant or opt for a curated wine tasting as you soak in views of rolling green hills. Time your trip with one of their regular live music performances or the annual Winter Wine Festival to relax in style.

Beer lovers can stop for a Hazy Pale Ale or Cloudy Apple Cider at Stoic Brewing. Join a tour of the brewery to see how their craft brews are made before you taste their creations for yourself.

Wines ready for tasting at the Crooked River Wines winery in Gerringong, Kiama

Crooked River Wines, Gerringong

Meals with a view

Fertile soils and bountiful produce will leave you spoilt for choice when it comes to places to eat and drink local flavours. Stop in for a nice lunch at The Hill Bar and Kitchen which overlooks Werri Beach or The Blue Swimmer in Gerroa which is located at the mouth of the Crooked River. Drop into Natural Necessity , a sprawling surf shop and café that’s been a local favourite for more than 40 years. For a classic pub meal, try Gerringong Bowling Club or Jack's Grill by Smith St. Food, located within the historic Cronin’s Gerringong Hotel.

If you’re after a quick but nourishing bite, join queues at Gerringong Bakery for homemade pies and pastries. If you have time to linger, visit Buena Vista Farm to attend a tour or cooking workshop using farm-to-table fare. Make your own ferments and probiotics, bake a sourdough loaf, of harvest your own coffee before roasted the beans and enjoying a brew.

Bar at The Hill Bar and Kitchen in Gerringong, Kiama Area

The Hill Bar and Kitchen, Gerringong

Where to stay

Accommodation in Gerringong includes stylish holiday houses, seaside cottages, rural retreats, holiday parks and campsites. If you’re after a high-style retreat, try one of Dovecote’s two dramatic pavilions or architect Espie Dodds’ view-capturing Ocean Farm.

Couple relaxing by the pool at Ocean Farm luxury accommodation in Gerringong, Kiama Area, South Coast

Ocean Farm, Gerringong

Getting there

Less than a two-hour drive from Sydney to Gerringong along the Grand Pacific Drive, this epic coastal route winds south from the Royal National Park. You’ll weave over the scenic Sea Cliff Bridge, pass geological wonders, skirt powdery beaches and navigate coastal towns and cities, including Wollongong (35 minutes north) and Kiama (10 minutes north). Or take a three-hour coastal train journey from Sydney’s Central Station. There are also flights available from Melbourne and Brisbane to Shellharbour, which is 29km north of Gerringong.

Make a road trip of it

Turn your visit to the Illawarra region into a memorable road trip by driving the stunning Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney. This scenic coastal route winds through lush rainforests, over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, and past charming towns like Wollongong, Kiama and Shellharbour. Along the way, enjoy ocean views, coastal walks, and plenty of stops for local eats and outdoor adventures – making the journey just as exciting as the destination.

Hit the road