Batehaven is a small coastal community on the edge of Batemans Bay where calm, sheltered swimming beaches meet waterfront cafes and restaurants. The township is surrounded by natural and wildlife attractions, along with some of the most alluring beaches New South Wales has to offer.

Things to do

Start your Batehaven holiday by diving head first into Batemans Bay from Caseys Beach, which features soft sand and an oceanfront park. To soak up uninterrupted views of the South Pacific Ocean, walk up to Observation Head Lookout. Snorkelers can enjoy a designated Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail, which starts at Maloneys Beach and features diverse marine environments, such as coral, seaweed beds and rocks.

Get up close with some of Australia’s native wildlife and birdlife at Birdland Animal Park, which houses over three hectares of native bushland. Within the park you can see wombats, kangaroos, deer, snakes and over 100 species of birds. There’s also a rideable train and shaded picnic areas. Slightly further away is Mogo Zoo, where you can meet exotic and endangered animals, such as cotton-top tamarins, Bolivian squirrel monkeys and fennec foxes.

Get out on the water at Batemans Marine Park, which is perfect for spotting seals and exploring the coastline in a kayak. Feeling hungry after all that sightseeing? Grab fresh fish and hot chips at Bernys at Batehaven or indulge in locally-sourced beef at Donegan’s Steak House.

Don’t forget to experience some of the neighbouring attractions, especially Mill Bay Boardwalk Narooma, which is ideal for a stroll beside emerald water teeming with fish. The Bingi Dreaming Track lets you walk the paths of the native Brinja-Yuin people while learning about their Dreamtime stories and traditional culture.

Getting around

Batehaven is about 3.5 hours’ drive from Sydney, but this distance can also be covered using trains and buses. You can walk around the centre of town, but you’ll need your own vehicle to explore further afield.