One Week in the Shoalhaven: The Ultimate Family Itinerary
A full week in the Shoalhaven allows you to do justice to one of NSW's most diverse and beautiful regions. Beyond the world-famous beaches of Jervis Bay, the Shoalhaven encompasses the charming village of Berry, the extraordinary Kangaroo Valley, the Fitzroy Falls lookout, historic Nowra, and the broader natural beauty of the NSW South Coast. This week-long itinerary balances beach time with hinterland exploration, active days with relaxed ones, and ensures you see the best of what the Shoalhaven has to offer.
| Base Option 1 | Huskisson — best for beach access |
|---|---|
| Base Option 2 | Move between Berry (nights 1–2), Huskisson (nights 3–6), Kangaroo Valley (night 7) |
| Distance from Sydney | 2–3 hours depending on destination |
| Best Combination | Jervis Bay coast + Shoalhaven hinterland |
Days 1–2: Berry and the Hinterland Entry
Begin your Shoalhaven week in Berry — a beautifully preserved historic village on the Princes Highway that functions as the region's gateway. Excellent cafes, boutique shops, and a relaxed atmosphere make Berry a wonderful first stop. Explore the town on Day 1, have dinner at one of Berry's highly regarded restaurants, and spend the night. Day 2, visit Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park (approximately 45 minutes from Berry) — a spectacular 80-metre waterfall with excellent walking tracks. Continue to Nowra for supplies and check in to Huskisson accommodation by late afternoon.
Days 3–5: The Jervis Bay Experience
Three days based in Huskisson gives you time to properly experience Jervis Bay without rushing. Day 3: Dolphin cruise in the morning, afternoon at Hyams Beach. Day 4: Full day in Booderee National Park — Botanic Gardens morning, Murrays Beach afternoon, kangaroos at dusk. Day 5: Callala Beach for a relaxed morning, Plantation Point for afternoon snorkelling, Huskisson Brewing Company for dinner.
Days 6–7: Kangaroo Valley and Return
Day 6: Drive up to Kangaroo Valley — one of the most beautiful valleys in NSW, approximately 1 hour from Huskisson through spectacular escarpment scenery. The valley floor has excellent kayaking on the Kangaroo River, bushwalking in Budderoo National Park, and a charming village with good food. Stay overnight in Kangaroo Valley (book in advance — accommodation is limited). Day 7: Explore the valley in the morning, then return to Sydney via the scenic Macquarie Pass or Fitzroy Falls route — a beautiful way to end a remarkable week.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a week enough time for the Shoalhaven?
- A week gives you excellent coverage of the key highlights. Two weeks would allow deeper exploration of the hinterland, additional beaches, and a more relaxed pace — but one week is genuinely satisfying.