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Plan Your Perfect Gerringong Escape

Nestled between lush green hills and the sparkling sapphire blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, Gerringong is a laid-back coastal escape on the South Coast of New South Wales.

Less than two hours south of Sydney and a short 10-minute drive from Kiama, this charming town is a haven for surfers, nature lovers, foodies, and families alike. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring coastal trails, or winding down with local wine, Gerringong offers a rich blend of experiences that go far beyond the beach.

Top Places to Eat, Stay & Explore in Gerringong

If you’re planning a South Coast getaway, here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to eat, drink, stay, shop, and explore in Gerringong.

Photo credit: The Blue Swimmer via Instagram

Eat 

From casual bites to gourmet delights, Gerringong’s food scene caters to every craving:

  • The Hill Bar & Kitchen – Enjoy panoramic ocean views and a menu that celebrates honest, sustainable food. Think locally sourced seafood, juicy hamburgers, gourmet pizzas, and hearty salads. 
  • Curries and Spirits – Dive into bold flavours with authentic Indian dishes like Tandoori chicken, biriyani, and fresh naan. Dine in or takeaway — either way, it’s the perfect feast after a day of adventure.
  • Perfect Break Cafe at Natural Necessity Surf Shop – This family-owned and operated vegetarian cafe has been loved by locals and visitors alike for over 25 years. Enjoy fresh meals inspired by Mexican and Mediterranean flavours, including their legendary nachos, wholemeal pancakes, açai bowls, sourdough bruschetta, cookies, juices, and more.
  • Bella Char Restaurant & Wine Bar – Whether you’re starting your day at the breakfast buffet, stopping by for a cocktail, or indulging in the à la carte dining menu, you’ll enjoy the very best in seasonal and regional produce from morning to night.
  • The Restaurant at Crooked River Estate – This award-winning restaurant is the perfect setting for a special occasion. With exceptional service, spectacular views, and delicious menus crafted by Head Chef Dane Tobias, it offers a feast for all the senses.
  • The Blue Swimmer – Just a short drive away, enjoy the stunning Gerroa foreshore while indulging in a friendly and relaxed dining experience. From breakfast to lunch and dinner — or even just a cheeky coffee or drink — the Modern Australian menu showcases the best seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Photo credit: Crooked River Estate via Instagram

Drink

Whether you’re starting your day or winding down, Gerringong has plenty of places to sip and savour:

  • Daily Grind Coffee Roasters – Open Monday to Friday, kickstart your midweek mornings with expertly roasted coffee and a laid-back vibe. You can also purchase freshly roasted beans to enjoy during your stay — or take some home as a delicious reminder of your visit.
  • Stoic Brewing – A local favourite for craft beer lovers. Stop by to sample small-batch brews, or book a private tour and tasting (minimum of four people) to learn about the brewing process from one of their friendly experts. From Thursday to Sunday, you can also enjoy lunch or dinner, with menu highlights including burgers, loaded fries, and fried chicken.
  • The Cellar Door at Crooked River Estate – Stop in at the Cellar Door to sample award-winning wines, snack on light bites and grazing plates, and, on special days, enjoy live music events in a stunning vineyard setting.
  • The Co-Op Gerringong – Look out for upcoming gigs and events where you can wet your whistle and enjoy live music at Gerringong’s historic dairy co-operative. 

Photo credit: Bunker House via Instagram

Stay

From luxury retreats to family-friendly holiday parks to grand designs, Gerringong offers accommodation for every type of traveller:

  • Park Ridge Retreat – Nestled in the heart of Gerringong, this boutique accommodation offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush gardens – just steps from pristine beaches, charming shops, and vibrant cafés.
  • Werri Beach Holiday Park – Take your pick from a wide range of accommodation to suit every group size and budget — from deluxe spa and oceanside cabins to spacious caravan and camping sites. Guests can also enjoy access to resort-style amenities, including a swimming pool, children’s playground, tennis courts, and more.
  • Mercure Gerringong Resort – Featuring a renovated restaurant, two pools, a tennis court, and a sun-drenched garden courtyard, this award-winning resort is just minutes from the town centre — making it the ideal base for exploring Gerringong and its surrounds.
  • Coast and Country Holidays – From beachside escapes to hinterland retreats, and pet- and family-friendly options, you’ll be sure to find your perfect stay with more than 25 boutique and luxury holiday homes to choose from in Gerringong.  
  • Luxury Villas at Crooked River Estate – Choose from four luxurious two-bedroom villas, each featuring its own en-suite, kitchen, living area, spacious deck, and stunning plunge pool. As a guest, you’ll receive a 10% discount on restaurant dining and Cellar Door experiences.
  • Luxury Homes – Choose from stunning properties perfect for family holidays or group getaways, including spacious designer homes like Ātaahua Gerringong, Sundara Beach House, Uma on Werri, Bunker House, The Beach House, Gerroa, and Seabreeze Gerringong – many featuring heated pools, spas, ocean views, and premium amenities for an unforgettable stay.

Photo credit: Belinda Doyle Design via Instagram

Shop

Take home a piece of Gerringong with locally made and curated treasures:

  • Natural Necessity Surf Shop – Not only is it Australia’s largest independent surf shop, but this family-owned business is a local icon. Offering surfboards and accessories, apparel, and coastal lifestyle essentials, it’s a one-stop shop to get you beach-ready.
  • 34 Degrees South Trading Company – This hidden gem is more than just a retail shop — it’s an emporium of beautiful homewares inspired by a love of the sea and all things coastal. Proudly locally owned and operated, its curated collection features homewares and curiosities from around the world so that you can take a little piece of Gerringong’s beach vibe home with you.
  • The Collective Beat Gerringong — An indoor marketplace showcasing around 80 Australian small creative businesses. Each business is carefully selected for its quality, originality, and heart, making it a vibrant hub of local talent and coastal charm. Be sure to stop by Belinda Doyle Art’s stall to browse photography prints, wall art, resin homewares, and other souvenirs.
  • Gerringong Rotary Village Markets – Held on the 3rd Saturday of every month, these vibrant markets feature local produce, handmade goods, and artisan crafts.

Photo credit: Soul Clay Studios

Create

Make memories and your own souvenirs at Gerringong’s local studios and workshops:

  • Bead Shack – A vibrant, family-run treasure trove offering rare, vintage, and exotic beads from around the world, along with creative kits and workshops for all ages. 
  • Soul Clay Studios – A purpose-built pottery studio offering workshops, classes, and a studio shop featuring handmade ceramics.
  • Gerringong Library and Museum – Discover the town’s rich history and its transformation from dairy country to a thriving tourist destination, browse the library’s impressive catalogue and look out for school holiday classes and workshops.
  • Buena Vista Farm – From sourdough and cheesemaking classes to coffee roasting and fermentation workshops, this family-owned farm offers a hands-on way to experience the true essence of farm-to-table living. Be sure to check their website for upcoming workshops and classes — it’s a unique opportunity to learn traditional skills on a farm with stunning coastal views.

Photo credit: Gerringong Golf Club via Instagram

Play

If you’re looking for fun or to try a new skill, Gerringong has something for everyone:

  • Gerringong Golf Club – Could this be Australia’s most picturesque golf course? The 18-hole course sits between Gerringong and Gerroa, surrounded by rolling hills and overlooking the stunning coastline. The hilly terrain will boost your step count and heart rate, but you can grab a cart to make life easier and finish with a drink (or two) at the clubhouse.
  • Surf Camp Australia – Whether you’re looking to learn the basics or you’re an experienced surfer wanting to sharpen your skills, expert instructors will help you catch the best waves while having fun in the water. Classes are available for groups or private sessions for ages 6+. Be sure to book in advance.
  • Gerringong Bowlo – This family-friendly club is the perfect place to experience Gerringong’s community spirit. Enjoy lawn bowls, check the ‘What’s On’ calendar for the latest activities, and soak up the friendly local atmosphere.

Photo credit: Body In Line Pilates

Relax

Looking to unwind? Gerringong offers wellness experiences to help you recharge:

  • Wellness Luxury Escape – Treat yourself to a mobile massage or spa treatment, or find inner peace with a private Pilates or yoga session—all in the comfort of your chosen space.
  • Kiama Coast Walk – A spectacular coastal trail linking Gerringong to Kiama, with dramatic cliffs and ocean views – the ultimate way to clear your mind.
  • Kimberley Park Stud – Offering scenic rides and expert instruction for all ages, the mini ride lessons are available on a casual basis and provide an ideal way to unwind and reconnect with nature through the gentle art of horsemanship.
  • Body In Line Pilates – Open Monday to Friday, find your flow with group reformer or mat Pilates designed to help you improve strength, flexibility, and overall wellbeing.

Ourie Pool, Photo Credit: @_aswewander via Instagram

Explore

Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Gerringong is a nature lover’s paradise:

When to Visit Gerringong

Gerringong is a year-round destination, with each season offering something special:

  • Spring – Warmer weather and longer days mark the start of the swimming season. It’s also an ideal season for hiking, whale watching, and outdoor dining as the town comes alive with a fresh, vibrant energy.
  • Summer – Perfect for beach days, surfing, and soaking up the coastal sunshine. Enjoy local festivals, twilight markets, outdoor dining, and long days spent exploring the coastline or relaxing by the water.
  • Autumn – Crisp air and golden sunsets make it ideal for wine tasting, coastal walks, and scenic drives through the hinterland.
  • Winter – Quiet and cosy, great for wellness retreats, whale watching, or warming up by an open fire at a local café, winery or bar.

Why Gerringong Should Be Your Next Escape

Whether you’re surfing at sunrise, browsing art galleries, sipping local wine, or watching clouds roll over the hills, Gerringong invites you to slow down and soak it all in. 

So, pack your bags, grab your board, and explore the magic of Gerringong—your new favourite coastal escape.

Theresa Mullan

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