We love to keep it local, but sometimes you’ve just got to get some sand between your toes.
And how lucky are we to have some of the most beautiful beaches only an hour or so drive from here?
So if you want to get a dose of sunshine and sea air, check out our list of beaches close by that The Fold LOVES for a day trip from The Southern Highlands.
Bulli Beach
This one makes the top of our list because it’s such a great, easy day at the beach.
It’s only a little over an hour away from the Highlands and has something for everyone.
There’s a lovely, gentle, patrolled beach, playground for the kids and two ocean pools; one for the little ones and one for people who want to do some serious laps.
You’ve got some rocks that are perfect for exploring, and a surf beach on the other side for a little more action.
The beach has some grassy spots which makes it perfect for picnics (or just to sit on if you actually HATE sand) but the beachfront cafe and bar where you can eat in or takeaway have our vote.
Kendalls Beach
It’s a pretty drive to this breathtaking beach, a little over an hour away and is only one of a few awesome beaches near Kiama.
We like Kendalls as it’s really easy to park, patrolled (look out for the flags), has some grassy spots for a BBQ, kids play area on the beach, loos and the caravan park close by has a shop to grab an ice cream.
Take a picnic lunch with you to this one or duck up the hill to grab some fish and chips at the local takeaway.
Easts Beach
If Kendalls is a little rough for you, keep going a little bit further to Easts Beach.
It’s also patrolled (during the Christmas hols only), easy to park, has great amenities (loos and showers) and we find it is often a little calmer than Kendalls.
We love the rocks which are awesome for a shell collecting adventure.
The Big 4 is close by – unfortunately you can’t use any of their cool facilities but you can pop in for a snack at their kiosk.
Seven Mile Beach
We dig Seven Mile Beach at Gerroa.
It’s only an easy hour drive away, the beach is spectacular and it’s patrolled.
There’s a kiosk close by for some lunch, plus you’re a quick drive to shops and restaurants at Gerringong, with great options for lunch (and a little shopping if you can sneak it in).
There are amenities close by the beach, so it’s all very easy. It’s a treasure of a spot and like all of these fab beaches, it seems to get busier each summer!
Why not try them all?
Go on! Just remember – drive safely, make sure you always look out for the flags and don’t forget to slip, slop, slap.
Here’s a handy hint – check out this site before heading out for the day to check on the swimming conditions, water temp, and importantly if the beach is patrolled.
Still need to cool off? Check out our guide to the different local options for swimming in the Southern Highlands.