Five hours south of Sydney, Narooma is the NSW South Coast at its most easygoing — Sydney rock oysters straight from the inlet, sunbathing seals on the rocks, and the historic village of Tilba just up the road. We spent a seaside weekend here eating well and slowing right down. This is where we stayed, ate and explored.
Where to stay
The Oaks Ranch · Near Mossy Point
An idyllic country setting with outstanding boutique rooms, a five-minute drive to Mossy Point and 50 minutes to Narooma. Relax around the magnesium pool or play a 9-hole round of golf, enjoy an award-winning dinner at the restaurant and breakfast on the terrace.
Where to eat & drink
Salt of the Coast
A great spot for hearty morning breakfasts and fresh coffee on the waterfront jetty.
Quarterdeck
Housed in an old oyster shed, with a casual atmosphere, friendly staff and great food.
The Oyster Farmer's Daughter
Spend a Sunday on the inlet with friends, music and fresh local produce — or just the two of you on a deck chair with a wine and the highest-quality Sydney rock oysters. And all the oysters are gluten free.
Queen Chow Narooma · Narooma
A fresh take on traditional Chinese, inspired by the street food of Hong Kong.
Dromedary Hotel · Tilba
A classic country pub in the town of Tilba, serving a typical pub lunch.
What to see & do
Bar Rock Lookout
Spectacular ocean views.
Australia Rock
A rock formation and local landmark where sunbathing seals will keep you entertained.
Tilba
A hidden historic town of colourful timber cottages, markets, cafes and shops.
Know before you go
Getting there: Narooma is on the NSW South Coast, about a five-hour drive south of Sydney and two and a half hours from Canberra. Moruya Airport, roughly 40 minutes north, has limited regional flights.
Getting around: A car is essential for exploring the town, the surrounding beaches and nearby villages like Tilba and Mossy Point.
Best time to visit: Summer and early autumn (December to April) are warmest for the beaches and water, but the busiest. Spring and autumn are quieter and mild — lovely for oysters and coastal walks.
Where to base yourself: The Oaks Ranch sits between Narooma and Mossy Point — an easygoing country base a short drive from the coast and the oyster spots.
Good to know: This is oyster country — Sydney rock oysters straight from the inlet are the local specialty. Book The Oyster Farmer's Daughter ahead on weekends, and keep an eye out for the resident seals at Australia Rock.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay in Narooma?
We stayed at The Oaks Ranch, a boutique country property with a magnesium pool, a 9-hole golf course and an award-winning restaurant, five minutes from Mossy Point and about 50 minutes from Narooma itself — an idyllic, easygoing base for a South Coast weekend.
How do you get to Narooma?
Narooma is on the NSW South Coast, around a five-hour drive south of Sydney and roughly two and a half hours from Canberra. A car is the easiest way to explore the town, the surrounding beaches and nearby villages like Tilba.
What is there to do in Narooma?
It's a relaxed seaside escape. Watch the sunbathing seals at Australia Rock, take in the ocean from Bar Rock Lookout, feast on Sydney rock oysters straight from the inlet, and drive up to the historic village of Tilba for its timber cottages, markets and cafes.
What is Narooma known for?
Narooma is known for its pristine inlet and some of the best Sydney rock oysters in the country, along with resident seals, clear turquoise water and the iconic Australia Rock formation. It's a quieter, food-focused alternative to the busier South Coast towns.
When is the best time to visit Narooma?
Summer and early autumn (December to April) bring the warmest weather for the beaches and the water, though they're also the busiest. Spring and autumn are quieter and mild — lovely for oysters, coastal walks and the seals, without the peak-season crowds.
Where's the best place to eat oysters in Narooma?
The Oyster Farmer's Daughter is the spot — Sydney rock oysters enjoyed right on the inlet with a wine in hand. For something more casual, Quarterdeck, set in an old oyster shed, is a local favourite.