Open for Business: Best things to do in Batemans Bay and Mogo, NSW
When it comes to a bakery, we have got you covered in finding the best in the country. But this doughnut is hands down the best you’ll find.
Welcome to Open for Business.
Each week, news.com.au in partnership with Tourism Australia and the National Bushfire Recovery Agency will shine a spotlight on an Aussie region devastated by the 2020 bushfires. The video series will provide ideas on ways to help, where to visit and cafes not to miss on your next holiday at home.
An enduring escape destination for couples, families and friends, the NSW south coast has plenty to offer.
But an adventure to Batemans Bay and nearby Mogo – both dotted within the Eurobodalla region – is where you’ll find Mother Nature’s best on show.
Beaches, rainforests, swimming, surfing, snorkelling, camping, fishing, hiking, delicious local restaurants and countless locally owned boutique shopping options complete the region, which has everything you could ever want in a holiday.
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The district’s reputation for quality produce and great food is also well founded, with charming eateries and working farms to visit, as well as enough bays and beaches to have you busy for weeks on end.
The south coast stretches from Wollongong in the north to the Sapphire Coast in the south, but a visit to Batemans Bay and into Mogo are two spots not to leave off your bucket list.
BATEMANS BAY
With a population of 17,500, Batemans Bay is the bustling coastal hub only two hours’ drive from Canberra and four from Sydney.
With cool small-town charm, fresh coastal air and some of the most stunning beaches in the country – like McKenzies Beach in Malua Bay, Denhams Beach, and the stunning Corrigans Cove – you’ll wish you never had to leave.
After the beach, head back into town for a quick game at Batemans Bay Mini Golf, cruise down the Clyde River to Nelligen or visit Birdland Animal Park in Catalina, which is home to more than 100 species of native birds and animals.
If shopping is more your scene, drop into the Batemans Bay Sunday Market, held the first and third Sunday of each month and peruse the stalls selling books, clothes, food, collectables, plants, gifts, antiques and more. For some stunning handmade jewellery, Juela Mogo is a hidden gem full of unique pieces.
To escape the hustle and bustle, head north to discover hidden gems like Depot Beach, Durras and Bawley Point, where you’ll experience the magic of the Murramarang National Park with plenty of hiking trails, beaches and even kangaroos.
Batemans Bay is the heart of Australia’s Oyster Coast. Appreciate the Clyde River oysters at
Pearly Oyster Bar and Farm and pick up a dozen or two of fresh oysters from the Wray Street Oyster Shed. Make sure you visit Narooma for its annual Narooma Oyster Festival.
The region is filled with crystal-clear waters, especially along the Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail. This underwater adventure trail explores three snorkelling locations – Maloneys Beach, Sunshine Cove Beach, and Guerilla Bay.
No trip to the region is complete without a visit the Montague Island Nature Reserve, where you can snorkel with the fur seals and explore the historic lighthouse – or even spend the night.
MOGO
The quaint little town of Mogo was devastated by the 2019 bushfires, losing both homes and shops in the blaze. But over time, the town has started to rebuild from the ashes.
Only 10 minutes south and inland from Batemans Bay, Mogo is nestled in gorgeous bushland, and home to the iconic Mogo Wildlife Park, which is home to more than 250 animals, and one of the only two places in Australia where you can see the majestic white lion.
While living and breathing nature, explore the hectares of parkland at Murramarang National Park and Birdland Animal Park, home to an abundance of Aussie wildlife including the Eastern Grey Kangaroo and over 100 species of Australian native birds.
After exploring the zoo, make sure to stop into Gandary Bakers in Moruya – home to a little ‘locals gem’.
Serving up delicious doughnuts with a twist, such as lemon-filled or even with a layer of custard, you will be coming back for more of their baked delights considered “the best” in the region by locals. Oh, and you’ll want to leave room for a pie at Mogo Pies, where they serve up homemade pies which are considered the best in the region.