5 July 2021

Canberra Day Trips: Maloneys Beach

| Canberra Day Trips
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Beachfront at Maloneys. Photo: Author’s own.

If you like your beach experience to be tranquil, relaxing, and free of crowds, then here’s a gem of a location made for you. Maloneys Beach is tucked away in Murramarang National Park and it’s an absolutely perfect spot for a back-to-basics beach seaside experience that’s no fuss and no frills but still has everything you need. There’s a calm swimming area which is also ideal for launching a boat or kayak, interesting bushland areas to explore on foot, some top snorkelling spots, and picnic and barbecue facilities. And as a bonus, the resident kangaroos are pretty much everywhere and don’t mind visitors, and your pooch is welcome in some parts of the area.

The classic South Coast beach, just a few kilometres down the road from Batemans Bay, is around a kilometre long. The waves are mostly small and calm, and you can drive right up to the reserve that runs along the beach. There are rock platforms on each side that are fun to explore or fish from and the water is usually pristine. There’s a little cove to the east that is perfect for snorkelling, and there are beaches to explore in the area.

The waves are calm and the views across the bay are extensive. Photo: Author’s own.

Why you’ll love it

It’s the perfect place to dial it down and relax

Maloneys offers the quintessential beach experience and is a perfect spot to kick back and enjoy the serenity. The quiet location means you can take in a beach walk as the sun rises or sets as you gaze across the water, and you’ll often have the place to yourself.

There are walks with stunning views to discover

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Walks are one of the pleasures of the area. Head up to the headland on Reef Point, which you can get to from the foreshore or a track up on the headland itself. You’ll be rewarded with lovely views. There’s also the Acheron Ledge walking track to discover, and there’s more information about it here.

It’s a snorkeller’s paradise

Chain Bay and Acheron Ledge are excellent for snorkelling. The ocean is mostly calm and shallow close to shore near the rocks. A little further out are more rocks full of nooks and crannies where there’s abundant fish life and lots of seaweed.

Take to the water in a boat or kayak

There’s a basic boat ramp near the beach car park. If you’re in a boat or kayak, head north to Three Islet Reef, Yellow Rock and North Head. If you’re not confident in a kayak, check out the guided tours on offer that will let you explore some amazing locations as you paddle past Murramarang National Park.

You can bring your pooch

If you are planning on bringing your furry friend, they’ll be welcome at certain times. The beach is on and off-leash time share in some areas. Check before you go because different rules apply during peak and off-peak periods.

Getting there

Getting to Maloneys Beach from Canberra takes a couple of hours heading east on the Kings Highway. The scenic road passes through farmlands, forests and mountain ranges via Queanbeyan, Bungendore, Braidwood, Clyde Mountain and Nelligen before turning onto the Princes Highway and travelling north.

Once you reach the big roundabout where the Kings Highway meets the Princes Highway, turn left and head north for approximately 8kms. Take the well-signposted turn to Long Beach on your right (Cullendulla Drive) and then look out for Northcove Road. This will take you right down to the beach. If you drive all the way to the end, you’ll find free barbecues, shelter, and toilets.

READ ALSO The best restaurants and bars on the South Coast

When to go

Spring is a perfect time for exploring the beach and national park when the weather is mild and the water sparkling. In summer, add some swimming or water sports to your adventure as the water is warmer. Winter is a good time for bushwalking and discovering the best of nature, especially some of the longer trails in the surrounding areas.

Key details

  • Duration: Allow two hours each way.
  • Distance from Canberra: Around 160km from the CBD.
  • Recommended for: Those who want the classic, back-to-basics beach experience without the crowds and big waves.
  • More information: South Coast Travel Guide: Maloneys Beach

Have you been to Maloneys Beach? Where are your favourite spots to explore in the area?

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