How to spend a long weekend in Shellharbour

Hike, fish and snorkel at Bass Point Reserve

Bass Point Reserve sprawls over a 100-hectare headland just south of Shellharbour Village. This beautiful reserve contains one of the few littoral rainforest areas in the Illawarra region and is recognised as one of the most important archaeological sites on the NSW coast. Follow the plaques dotted along the Bass Point Indigenous Cultural Walk to learn about the Aboriginal history and heritage sites in this area. The sheltered waters of Bushrangers Bay are home to a wonderful diversity of marine life and offer excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities, while promising fishing spots can be found all around the headland.

Step back in time at the HARS Aviation Museum

Housed at Shellharbour Airport, the HARS Aviation Museum is run by a group of volunteers with a shared passion for everything aeronautical. Many members of the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society are qualified aircraft engineers and pilots, which is reflected in the museum’s outstanding aircraft displays and impressive hangars. The price of admission includes an extensive guided tour of the premises, with opportunities to explore both the interiors and exteriors of these spectacular machines. The museum’s monthly Tarmac Days also give visitors the chance to board and sit in the cockpit of unique aircraft such as the F-111C fighter bomber and the Neptune submarine hunter. Offering fascinating insights into the history and technology of flight, the HARS Aviation Museum is sure to enthral aviation enthusiasts and amateurs alike.

Stand-up paddleboard the harbour, lake or surf

Explore Shellharbour’s scenic waterways on a stand-up paddleboard. Get started with Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) Shellharbour, a mobile school which offers both private and group paddleboarding lessons for all ability levels. Choose to explore calm, enclosed waters, or opt for exposed waters and challenging surf. Cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Illawarra with an accredited SUP instructor, or test your strength and coordination during a floating yoga and sound bath session. Whether you want to start the day with a relaxing sunrise paddle, hit the waves for some stand-up paddle surfing, or explore the harbour at night, SUP Shellharbour can provide a fun day out for both first-timers and experienced paddlers.

Take a swing at The Links Shell Cove

Nothing says ‘a relaxing weekend away’ like spending an afternoon on the green. Situated just a stone’s throw from the centre of Shellharbour, The Links Shell Cove is one of the Illawarra’s leading golf courses. Once known as the ‘Beast of the East’ due to its challenging nature, the links-style championship course has grown to accommodate golfers of all skill levels, offers four tee options and has been voted one of Australia’s top 50 courses to play for under $50. The grounds also include a driving range, mini golf course and licensed tavern, making this a great day out for the whole family.

Explore world-class beaches

Shellharbour enjoys more than its fair share of fantastic swimming and surfing spots. From Minnamurra to Lake Illawarra, you’ll find plenty of sandy stretches that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The Shellharbour region includes six patrolled beaches as well as the Beverley Whitfield ocean pool, with Shellharbour North Beach and Warilla Beach consistently ranking as local favourites. Surfers will also find themselves spoilt for choice, with a number of world-class surf breaks dotted around Shellharbour. Killalea State Park contains the popular National Surfing Reserve including ‘The Farm’ at Killalea Beach, which offers rolling, open waves in relatively deep water; and the ‘Mystics’ at Minnamurra Beach, which is known for its intense barrelling wedges. Bring your surfboard or hire one nearby to enjoy some of the best waves on the South Coast.

Feast on local seasonal produce

With seasonal menus and local flavours, Shellharbour’s best produce is showcased at Relish on Addison. Nestled in the heart of Shellharbour Village, this informal, contemporary Australian restaurant and cocktail bar is open for lunch and dinner. Enjoy a cocktail on the balcony before feasting on Chef Tom Laws’ creations.

Order a drink with a view at a local favourite

The views are just as delicious as the meals at this beachside pub. Soak in views of the Pacific Ocean with a cold beer in hand at the Ocean Beach Hotel. Choose between their fresh seafood, share plates, and all your favourite pub classics. Enjoy bottomless lunch, weekly meal specials, trivia nights, happy hours, and live music by local bands and DJs. 

Enjoy every meal with ocean views

Whether you want a coffee or a cocktail, brunch or dinner, The Waterfront Shell Cove dining precinct has you covered. Overlooking the marina, there is something to satisfy every craving with cafes, an ice creamery, a Japanese restaurant, fish and chips, a tavern, and more on offer. After you’ve fueled up, stroll the 2.5km boardwalk and promenade that runs along the harbour to the end of a break wall. Kids can play in the sand and splash in the water at a netted beach near the marina.   

Check into a 19th-century manor house

Luxury awaits at Ravensthorpe Estate. With 3 acres of stunning gardens, complete with a tennis court, pool and wood fired pizza oven, the grounds are just as impressive as the accommodation. A grand 19th century home purposely restored to cater for guests and celebrations, there are three private escapes to choose from. Couples will love The Stables and Bateman Cottage, whilst Manor House can easily accommodate groups sleeping up to 10. 

Ride on a miniature train

Ride steam, diesel, and miniature trains at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum. Run by knowledgeable volunteers, join a tour to see the locomotive shed and learn about the advancements of train technology. See local historical railway buildings including the 1915 signal box from Otford and the 1890 Yallah Railway Station. Pick up a souvenir and a bite to eat in the Tramway Dining Car. Visit on the second Sunday of the month to enjoy a steam train ride or the fourth Saturday of the month for a ride on a diesel engine.