Discover Shoalhaven: The Perfect Weekend Getaway

We stayed at Paperbark Camp in Woollamia. As soon as you drive in, you feel an immediate sense of calm. The camp features 13 luxurious glamping tents nestled among the trees, each equipped with comfortable bedding, stylish touches, and semi-outdoor showers and baths. Bathing to the sound of birdsong is a unique experience. At Paperbark,

Fish and chips are a big deal in Shoalhaven, and there's stiff competition. Our favourites were Pelican Rocks Cafe in Greenwell Point, a long-standing family-run cafe overlooking the water with a fantastic seafood selection. It's casual and relaxing, with extremely fresh and delicious fish and chips.

Another great option is Husky Fresh Fish & Chips in Huskisson, with daily specials showcasing the local catch and a beautiful coastline view.

When it's time for breakfast and coffee, Shoalhaven offers plenty of great spots. On our way down the coast, we stopped at Nowra institution Hyper Hyper Coffee. This bustling café has a cool and welcoming vibe with records playing out the back. The coffee is strong and hits you hard, Italian style, and we loved

Next door, Punch The Ploughman serves all the breakfast staples, from chilli scrambled eggs to avocado on toast.

While in this area, a visit to the Nowra Farmers Market is a must. Stock up on fresh produce to take with you down the coast. They showcase local suppliers, offering everything from fruits and vegetables to bread, milk, dairy products, and preserves.

Another Nowra gem is Espresso Boy Donuts, a hidden secret offering specialty donuts perfect for snacking on during your drive. Made fresh daily, they have a variety of options, including Oreo-topped, sugar-glazed with jam, and Biscoff.

Further down the coast in the Jervis Bay region, Jervis Bay Coffee Co. in Huskisson serves up local brews close to the beach. Enjoy your coffee while strolling and soaking in the sun at one of Jervis Bay's beautiful sandy beaches.

Another local favourite is Salty Joes, a laid-back spot known for its breakfast classics, coffee, pastries, and casual vibe. It's worth noting that Huskisson was awarded gold at the 2024 Top Tourism Town Awards in the Tiny Town category.

While you're in Huskisson, a visit to the newest pub on the block, Bud's Tavern, is essential. Owned and operated by a family with several successful restaurants and bars in Wollongong, this latest venture is an ode to family, and you can feel that as soon as you step inside. It's homey, casual, and the

On your way back home, stop in Berry, another award-winning town. It's super quaint with delicious restaurants and plenty of homeware shops and antique stores. The Berry Tea Shop is perfect for gifts, offering gorgeous ceramics and house-made tea blends.

The Treat Factory sells on-site-made sweets like licorice, chocolate, and musticks.

For coffee and lunch, Il Locale offers excellent coffee and a wholesome, seasonal menu.

Jervis Bay has two incredible breweries. Jervis Bay Brewing Co. offers a wide selection of locally crafted beers and a great atmosphere for the whole family, with live music and outdoor seating by the fire.

Neighbouring Flamin Galah Brewing Co. caters to a younger crowd with great craft beers, cocktails, and a food truck serving bao buns and fries. For those who can't make it to Jervis Bay, they also have a brewery in Chippendale, Sydney.

There's so much to do in the Shoalhaven beyond indulging in food and drinks. With over 100 beaches and more than 70 percent of the area covered by national parks and forests, it's one of the most beautiful landscapes in Australia. We were fortunate enough to experience the incredible whale watching in Huskisson. Jervis Bay

The Shoalhaven is also an excellent place for stargazing due to its lack of pollution. Jervis Bay Stargazing allowed us to explore the wonders of the night sky on Collingwood Beach. The astrophysicist guide shared captivating stories about the constellations and provided a telescope to check out the moon up close. People of all ages