Things To Do
in Ulladulla

Ulladulla is a coastal town on the New South Wales south coast where the Shoalhaven River meets the Pacific. The town is known for sheltered beaches, a bustling harbour, and a relaxed, family friendly vibe. Quaint cafes, seafood shacks, and scenic waterfront walks line the town, making it easy to explore on foot.

Whale and dolphin sightings during migration seasons add a touch of wildlife to a sunny Ulladulla visit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Beach Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Ulladulla and settle into your accommodation near the harbor. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a waterfront café while watching fishing boats return with their morning catch. Take a leisurely stroll along the wharf and breathe in the salty air as you plan your visit.

afternoon
:

Head to nearby Narrawallee Inlet for a paddle or a gentle kayak trip through calm estuary waters. Keep an eye out for graceful oyster farms and migratory birds as you explore the lush banks. Take a break on the sandy shore and soak your feet before heading back.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant and sample freshly caught oysters or grilled fish. After dinner, wander down to the beach to watch the sunset paint the sky in pink and orange hues. End the night with a quiet stroll under the stars, listening to the waves lapping the shore.

day 2
Scenic Coastal Drive
morning
:

Start the day with coffee and pastries before embarking on the scenic coastal drive along Princes Highway. Pause at the Sea Cliff Bridge for panoramic ocean views and photo opportunities. Feel the fresh breeze as you admire the rugged cliffs and azure sea below.

afternoon
:

Continue on to the historic town of Milton for a gourmet lunch at a charming café. Explore local art galleries and boutique shops along Princes Street. Stop by the nearby Warden Head Lighthouse for more sweeping coastal vistas.

evening
:

Return to Ulladulla in time for dinner at a cozy bistro overlooking the harbor. Savor local produce paired with a glass of regional wine. Take a sunset walk along Ulladulla Beach and watch the sky glow over the water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-20
Coffee or tea$3-5
🧃Bottle of water$1-3
🎟️Movie or museum entry$15-25
🥗Groceries for a beach picnic$8-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed coastal vibe and family friendly atmosphere
  • Excellent seafood and waterfront dining
  • Beautiful coastal walks and nature reserves nearby
  • Good base for day trips to Mollymook and surrounding beaches
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife options after late evening
  • Seasonal crowds during holidays can reduce tranquility
  • Some services cater to tourists and can be pricier

Places to Visit in Ulladulla

Visit one of these nice places.

Ulladulla Harbour

Vibrant fishing boats, boats in motion, and sunrise or sunset reflections over the water make for classic harbour photography.

Ulladulla Headland Track

Clifftop vantage points with sweeping ocean vistas and dramatic coastlines ideal for wide landscape shots.

Clarkes Point Lookout

Panoramic views over the marina and coastline, especially photogenic at golden hour.

Mollymook Beach at Sunset

Wide sandy shoreline with sea stacks and silhouettes of surfers as the sun dips.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ulladulla

Ulladulla's cuisine centers on fresh seafood, casual cafe culture, and simple coastal dishes made with local produce.

Ulladulla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ulladulla Seafood Platter

An assortment of locally caught fish, prawns, and calamari served with dips and chips at harbourfront eateries.

Must-Try!

Barramundi Fillet with Lemon Myrtle

Grilled barramundi finished with a bright herb crust, commonly served with salad or vegetables.

Fish and Chips by the Harbour

Classic Aussie takeaway with crispy fried fish and steaming chips perfect for a seaside picnic.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ulladulla Harbour Market

Seasonal stalls offering fresh seafood, local produce, crafts and street bites right by the water.

Narrawallee Market

Seasonal market with coffee, snacks, and locally grown produce along the coast.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Ulladulla area has a temperate coastal climate with warm summers and mild winters. Average summer highs are in the mid to high 20s Celsius, with cooler evenings by the water. Winter days are typically mild, with temperatures often in the teens, and rainfall spread fairly evenly through the year. Sea breezes help moderate heat in summer, while variable weather can shift quickly along the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A casual hello or G'day is common; be polite and friendly when mingling in shops or cafes.

Litter and Quiet

Dispose of rubbish properly and keep noise reasonable near residential areas and beaches.

Queuing

Queue patiently for services; Australians value orderly wait lines.

Wildlife and Environment

Do not feed wildlife; respect signs about protected areas and reef or beach closures.

Safety Guide

Safety

Swim at patrolled beaches and heed lifeguards and signage for currents and jellyfish warnings. Be mindful of coastal cliffs and uneven ground on headland trails. Keep sun protection handy and stay hydrated, especially in summer. In case of emergency, dial 000 in Australia for police, fire, or medical services.

Tipping in Ulladulla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; round up or leave a small tip (typically 5-10%) for good service if you wish.

Payment Methods

Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payment is common; some small outlets may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days and busy beaches; sun protection is essential; jellyfish can appear in some areas, so swim where lifeguards are present.

Autumn

Milder seas and fewer crowds; great for coastal walks and whale watching as migration begins.

Winter

Cool but mild daytime temps; occasional storms and strong winds; great for coastal scenery without peak crowds.

Spring

Comfortable temperatures, blooming coastal flora, and rising wildlife activity; good for hiking and outdoor markets.

Nightlife Guide

Ulladulla at Night

Ulladulla offers a laid-back nightlife with pubs, coastal bars, and seasonal live music. Most venues are family-friendly, with a focus on waterfront views and relaxed atmosphere rather than nightlife mega-clubs. In peak season there are occasional street markets and live entertainment along the harbour. For a broader scene, nearby towns such as Milton and Mollymook host additional eateries and events.

Hiking in Ulladulla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ulladulla Headland Walk

Cliffside paths with ocean panoramas and vantage points for wildlife watching.

Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve Trails

Boardwalks and dirt paths along wetlands, ideal for birdwatching and photography.

Mollymook Coastal Walk

Scenic coastal path linking beaches and lookout points with sea views.

Airports

How to reach Ulladulla by plane.

Moruya Airport (MYA)

Regional airport about 70 km northeast, with flights to Sydney and Canberra on select services.

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)

Major international gateway about 200 km north, with frequent flights and rail connections to major towns.

Wollongong Airport (WOL)

Small regional airport south of Sydney offering regional services and convenient access for south coast travelers.

Canberra Airport (CBR)

Major national airport about 300+ km inland; serves as an alternative for longer trips and connects to many Australian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ulladulla is fairly walkable in the town centre and along the harbour with well marked paths. The harbour area and main street are practical to explore on foot, but some beaches and headlands require short drives or longer walks. Parking can be available but busy in peak season. Overall, the town is pedestrian-friendly with scenic routes for pedestrians and cyclists.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families with children

Many families come for beaches, parks, and a relaxed pace.

Retirees

Quieter seasons attract retirees seeking coastal living and easy access to healthcare and services.

Seasonal workers and tourists

Summer months bring seasonal workers and visitors to beaches, markets, and eateries.

Indigenous communities

The region is part of Yuin country; respect for traditional custodians and local cultural sites is encouraged.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

A staple sport on the coast with beaches suitable for all levels.

Fishing

Estuary and shore fishing options around Ulladulla Harbour and nearby beaches.

Cricket

Community cricket and local clubs during the warmer months.

Golf

Nearby golf courses in the Mollymook area provide scenic coastal rounds.

Sailing

Boating and sailing on the harbour and nearby waterways.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on the highway can increase during holiday periods. The town relies on car access with limited public transport within and around Ulladulla. Local buses link to surrounding towns; bike lanes and pedestrian paths exist along the harbour area. If visiting during peak season, plan for extra travel time and park early near popular beaches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulladulla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most cafes offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie burgers, and pasta; ask for dairy-free or egg-free preparations when needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ulladulla has local healthcare with clinics and pharmacies and access to Ulladulla District Hospital for emergency care. For more specialized treatment, nearby towns such as Nowra or Milton offer broader medical services. It is advisable to carry basic first aid supplies and know the location of the nearest pharmacy when exploring remote beaches. In an emergency, call 000.

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