From mountains to coastlines and from bush to beach, we’ve got some of the best lookouts on the South Coast. Whether you’re searching for the perfect spot to watch the whales or a view that you can share with your four-legged friend, you’ll find it all on our list below.
Lighthouse Lookouts
1. Crookhaven Heads
Located on the south side of the entrance to the Shoalhaven River just east of Nowra, Crookhaven Heads Lighthouse is a new, brick building that was created to replace the original, timber lighthouse in 1904. Whilst access to the inside of the lighthouse is restricted, the views from the surrounding lookouts are fantastic and worth exploring. It’s a picturesque spot to settle and watch the tide roll in, catch a glimpse of migrating whales or gaze over to Greenwell Point and Cullunghutti at sunset.
2. Warden Head
The Ulladulla lighthouse is a great spot to soak up spectacular ocean views that stretch from Jervis Bay to Bawley Point. Warden Head Lighthouse is a local favourite spot for whale watching during the May – November migration season. It’s an excellent vantage point and there’s ample opportunity to get some stunning photos here.
3. Point Perpendicular
The views from Point Perpendicular Lighthouse are absolutely incredible, with epic cliffs that can really put life into perspective. They stand at over 80 glorious metres high and you can literally look below into the waters and spot schools of fish, and the predators that chase them! There’s no access to the inside of the lighthouse but the beautiful white brick building makes for a perfect photo subject at sunrise and sunset. It lies on the same peninsula as Abrahams Bosom Reserve, which makes for an excellent day trip and is another hotspot for whale watchers.
4. Cape St George
The ruin of Cape St George Lighthouse is one of the most significant historical sites in Booderee National Park, with its intricate stonework being a relic of early European civilisation. This lookout is perched on the edge of spectacular cliffs, providing a wonderful spot to look out towards the sea and the grounds are always interesting to walk around while you’re here. Make sure to stop and read about this landmark’s history – the story of the original lighthouse keepers is fascinating.
Magic Morton
5. Three Views
This is one of the best lookouts on the South Coast and is located in the north of Morton National Park, accessed via Three Views Walking Track. There are three cliff-edge viewing points here, each boasting different views of Lake Yarrunga, Tallowa Dam and the Shoalhaven River below.
6. Little Forest Plateau
Start at Little Forest Plateau and walk along the cliff to Gadara Point – it’s easy, relatively flat and mostly open. If you’re a bit more adventurous though, head along the Rusden or Florence Head walking tracks for stunning panoramic views of Morton National Park. You might even spot some local kangaroos!
7. George Boyd Lookout
George Boyd Lookout is the place to be for a perfect mix of coastal and hinterland vistas. From the viewing platform, you can see all the way from Jervis Bay to Kioloa and spot the tall-treed forest below. If you feel like a bit of bushwalking, embark upon the lush and spectacular rainforest track nearby.
8. Pointer Gap Lookout
Near the town of Yatte Yattah lies Pointer Gap Lookout, boasting sweeping views along NSW’s South Coast. You’ll be able to spot Sussex Inlet to the north and Bawley Point to the south. The lookout has a delightful picnic area so make sure to pack some lunch as you take in the spectacular scenery.
9. Tianjara Falls
What makes a lookout even more remarkable? A 65m plunging waterfall does just the trick! Overlooking the Ettrema wilderness, Tianjara Falls is located just off Braidwood Rd and clearly signposted along the way. The short walk from the carpark to the viewing platform means this lookout is minimum effort for maximum reward.
10. Jerrawangala Lookout
While you’re at Tianjara, you may as well make a stop at nearby Jerrawangala Lookout. The dirt road is best in a 4WD but 2WDs are encouraged to make their way slowly as well. The elevated walkway is surrounded by captivating views, with dramatic cliffs in sight as well as the unspoilt Shoalhaven coast.
A Slice of Indigenous History
11. Pigeon House Mountain
This famous mountain, also known as Didthul in Aboriginal language plays an important role in Aboriginal mythology. In fact, Morton National Park, where this lookout is situated, is the traditional Country of the Yuin people. Several hundred Aboriginal sites have been recorded in this area and Aboriginal occupation here dates back over 20,000 years. Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track is one of the best walks you can do along the NSW south coast. It’s quite an adventurous hike that is remote and steep in parts, but the unrivalled views at the summit’s lookout make the trip more than worthwhile.
Pet Friendly Lookouts
12. Hanging Rock
Hanging Rock is accessed via a beautiful trail along the Shoalhaven River. It has been a prominent landmark of Nowra since the town’s creation and sits 46.25 metres above the river. The precariously positioned overhanging rock formation is surrounded by mature trees, with spectacular views across the Shoalhaven River. The lookout is located at the showground and is the start of Ben’s Walk.
13. Mogood Lookout
This one is a little bit of a local secret that we’re letting out of the bag. Mogood Lookout boasts 360-degree views of Clyde State Forest and the coastal hills stretching from Pigeon House Mountain in the north to Mount Gulaga in the South. It’s another fantastic spot for dirt road adventurers as you will need a 4WD to access the lookout along Cattlemans fire trail.
14. Cambewarra Mountain
Enjoy a delicious cappuccino at the Lookout Cafe while soaking up a stunning Shoalhaven panorama. It’s a cosy spot to warm up with blankets and a hot chocolate. As well as, wonderfully accessible for people in wheelchairs and provides free “puppaccinos” for the fur babies. Perched high on the summit of the Cambewarra Range, the views stretch from Coolangatta Mountain in the north all the way down to Pigeon House Mountain in the south. You can even catch a glimpse of Jervis Bay’s pristine waters from here.
