top beaches & hidden gems
Accessible
Swimming
Dog-friendly
Patrolled
Family-friendly
Regions Included: Killalea, Lake Illawarra, Warilla, Shellharbour, Bass Point
Shellharbour is home to some of the most stunning and diverse coastal spots in the region, offering something for everyone. See what beaches are best for you!
For surfers, The Farm Beach at Killalea (unpatrolled) is a must-visit. As a National Surfing Reserve, it’s renowned for its consistent waves and natural beauty, and it’s a favourite of our Mayor Chris Homer! It was awarded the prestige title of NSW’s Best Beach, and Australia’s 2nd Beach in 2024… and it is right here in Shellharbour.
Families with toddlers will love Little Lake at Elliott Park (unpatrolled), a shallow, calm lagoon perfect for a splash and play for the whole family. It is a great place to learn standup-paddleboarding, kayaking or enjoy some inflatable fun with young children.
For a full family day out, Reddall Reserve on Lake Illawarra (unpatrolled) ticks all the boxes with calm waters for stand-up paddleboarding, BBQ huts, playgrounds, Kiosk and the Lake Illawarra Art Trail. Keep an eye out for the variety of sea birds including the majestic pelicans and fishing cormorants. If you are lucky, you may even the occasional visit from local favourite Sammy the Seal – just remember to keep your distance.
Shellharbour North Beach, a patrolled beach, is close to cafés and parking, is ideal for tweens and teens, and has access to a beach wheelchair.
For those seeking peace and quiet, enjoy a stroll or a good book at Shellharbour South Beach (patrolled). If you’re after true tranquillity, Mystics Beach also known as Minnimurra Beach (unpatrolled) is one of the quietest spots around.
Accessibility is a priority in Shellharbour with two accessible beaches – Warilla Beach and Shellharbour North Beach – where a beach wheelchair is available for hire and a wheelchair mat provides easier access to the sand (during patrol hours). Beverly Whitfield Ocean Pool is due to re-open this Summer with a new accessibility ramp for all-abilities access.
Dog lovers can head to The Shallows Coastal Reserve, for off-leash fun. The black volcanic sand beaches and backdrop featuring the historic gravel loader offers a beautiful spot for a relaxing stroll, splash or throw of a ball. This beach is unpatrolled.
Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Bushrangers Bay Aquatic Reserve (accessible by foot during road upgrades) where you can spot a leafy sea dragon or the passive Grey Nurse Sharks. Otherwise, Red Sands is a lovely secluded snorkelling spot. These beaches are unpatrolled.
While there’s no beach with guaranteed natural shade, we recommend bringing a beach umbrella or cabana. Don’t forget to slip, slop, slap!
Prefer a pool? Shellharbour has those too. Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool is currently undergoing a major accessibility upgrade which will benefit all of the pool’s users, but there are plenty of other 50 metre pools at Albion Park, Oak Flats, and Warilla. Our pools have plenty of learn to swim, aqua aerobics, and inflatable fun during the School Holidays.
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Underground Hideout: Bushrangers Bay
Slip beneath the surface at Bushrangers Bay Aquatic Reserve and discover one of Shellharbour’s most spectacular underwater wonderlands. Crystal-clear waters reveal a vibrant world of curious blue gropers, colourful reef fish, wobbegongs and seasonal tropical visitors, all thriving within this protected marine sanctuary.
Whale of a Time in Shellharbour
This itinerary combines whale watching, Dharawal cultural experiences, public art and waterfront dining to help you experience Shellharbour’s deep connection to whales and Sea Country.
Explore Shellharbour’s Outdoor Art Gallery
Discover the stories, landscapes and creativity that make Shellharbour unique on a self-guided journey through the Lake Illawarra Art Trail and the city’s vibrant collection of murals. Wander lakeside trails, uncover striking public sculptures, admire colourful street art and enjoy local cafés, waterfront dining and coastal scenery along the way. Visiting in spring? Don’t miss the spectacular PromenART Sculpture Walk at Shell Cove Marina, adding even more creativity to your Shellharbour art escape.
