From dramatic coastal cliffs and pristine beaches to rainforest gullies and panoramic mountain lookouts, the Shoalhaven is home to some of the most spectacular walking trails on the NSW South Coast.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely coastal stroll, a family-friendly nature walk, or a more challenging hike with rewarding views, there is a trail to suit every level of fitness and experience.
Winter is one of the best times to explore the region on foot. The cooler temperatures make longer walks more comfortable, while clear skies often provide exceptional visibility across the coastline, valleys, and escarpments.
Here are some of our favourite walks within easy reach of Berry.
Easy to Moderate Walks Near Berry
Ben’s Walk, Nowra
One of the Shoalhaven’s most popular walking trails, Ben’s Walk offers a diverse landscape packed into a relatively easy circuit.
Beginning near Hanging Rock Lookout, the trail passes sandstone overhangs, large boulders, native bushland, a suspension bridge, and impressive views over the Shoalhaven River.
Distance: 5km circuit
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Allow: Approximately 2 hours
Bens Walk Nowra
Drawing Room Rocks, Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
Drawing Room Rocks is one of the South Coast’s most photographed natural landmarks.
This moderate walk leads to fascinating sandstone formations that resemble giant stone chairs and tables, with sweeping views across the coastline, hinterland, and surrounding national parks.
The combination of unique geology and spectacular scenery makes it a favourite among photographers and nature lovers.
Difficulty: Moderate
Allow: Approximately 2 hours return
Drawing Room Rocks
Bomaderry Creek Walk
Just minutes from the urban centre of Bomaderry, this surprisingly tranquil walk showcases the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
The area is significant to local Aboriginal communities and features a diverse range of vegetation, bush tucker species, sandstone cliffs, rainforest pockets, and seasonal wildflowers.
The dramatic Bomaderry Creek Gorge is a highlight of the walk.
Difficulty: Moderate
Allow: Approximately 2 hours
Bomaderry Creek Walk
Coastal Walks and Ocean Views
Kiama Coastal Walk
Stretching from Minnamurra to Gerringong, the Kiama Coastal Walk is one of the most scenic coastal walks in New South Wales.
The trail follows dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, rocky headlands, and ocean lookouts while passing through several charming seaside villages.
While the full walk covers approximately 22 kilometres, it can easily be completed in shorter sections.
Distance: Up to 22km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Allow: Flexible
Kiama Coast Walk
White Sands Walk, Jervis Bay
The White Sands Walk showcases some of Australia’s most beautiful coastline.
Following the shores of Jervis Bay, this picturesque trail links several stunning beaches, including the world-famous Hyams Beach, known for its brilliantly white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Keep an eye out for native birdlife, dolphins, and seasonal whale migrations.
Difficulty: Easy
Allow: Approximately 1 hour
White Sands Walk
Challenging Walks with Incredible Views
Pigeon House Mountain (Didthul), Morton National Park
One of the South Coast’s most iconic hikes, Pigeon House Mountain rewards walkers with extraordinary panoramic views across Morton National Park and the surrounding wilderness.
The trail includes a series of steep sections and ladders near the summit, making it ideal for active walkers seeking a more adventurous experience.
The summit views are among the best in New South Wales.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Allow: Approximately 3 hours return
Pigeon House Mountain
Mount Bushwalker, Morton National Park
For those seeking fewer crowds and equally impressive scenery, Mount Bushwalker offers a rewarding alternative.
The track winds through native forest and rainforest before reaching elevated viewpoints overlooking the coastline, valleys, and surrounding bushland.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Allow: Approximately 3 hours return
Mount Bushwalker
Three Views Walking Track, Morton National Park
As the name suggests, this walk is all about the views.
The trail links three spectacular lookouts:
- Lake Yarrunga View
- Tallowa Dam View
- Shoalhaven River View
Walkers can tackle the entire network in a single outing or enjoy the individual sections separately.
Difficulty: Moderate
Allow: 3–4 hours for all three tracks
Three Views
Waterfalls and Rainforest Walks
Granite Falls Lookout Walk
After periods of rain, Granite Falls becomes one of the region’s most impressive natural spectacles.
A short walk leads to a viewing platform overlooking the 63-metre waterfall as it plunges into the valley below.
The surrounding landscape of cliffs, forest, and deep valleys creates a dramatic backdrop.
Difficulty: Easy
Allow: Approximately 45 minutes
Lyrebird Loop Track, Budderoo National Park
Ideal for families and casual walkers, the Lyrebird Loop Track meanders through lush subtropical rainforest filled with towering trees, ferns, and native wildlife.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot the elusive lyrebird that gives the walk its name.
Distance: 1.6km loop
Difficulty: Easy
Allow: Approximately 1 hour
Lyrebird Loop
The Falls Walk, Budderoo National Park
One of the most rewarding short walks in the region, The Falls Walk leads through eucalypt forest and fern-filled gullies to the magnificent Minnamurra Falls.
The viewing platform provides an excellent vantage point to admire the cascading water and surrounding rainforest.
Distance: 4.2km return
Difficulty: Moderate
Allow: Approximately 1.5 hours
The Falls Budderoo
Why Walking is One of the Best Ways to Experience the Shoalhaven
Walking allows visitors to experience the incredible diversity of the Shoalhaven landscape, from coastal headlands and beaches to rainforest valleys, mountain peaks, and national parks.
Many of these walks are located within an hour of Berry, making them perfect day-trip adventures for guests staying in the region.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, ocean views, wildlife encounters, or simply some time in nature, the South Coast offers walking experiences that are memorable in every season.
Relax and Recover Afterwards
After a day exploring the trails of the Shoalhaven, there’s nothing better than returning to a warm spa, heated pool, or relaxing massage.
Guests staying at Mt Hay Retreat can arrange professional in-suite massage treatments, providing the perfect way to soothe tired muscles and unwind after a day on the track.
Simply speak with Anthony or Louise before your stay to arrange a treatment and complete your South Coast walking experience in comfort.
