Sunny Dalmeny. All photos supplied.
Beaches, lakes, kilometres of spectacular waterfront, gorgeous views, dog-friendly stretches of sand, places to cycle, go bushwalking, have a picnic or go surfing – you’ll find it all in the small, quiet and absolutely lovely coastal town of Dalmeny. There are also boat ramps, lookouts, abundant opportunities to get into nature, a beach that is patrolled in summer and plenty to keep day trippers busy.
Dalmeny is on the south coast, just north of Narooma. The town sits on headlands that look onto the Pacific in one direction and a coastal lagoon in the other. Eurobodalla National Park is nearby.
The town may be small but has a shopping area with a takeaway, café, and supermarket, as well as a bowling club that is open for dinner.
There’s no shortage of things to do and see on the gorgeous walk along the foreshore.
Things to discover and do in Dalmeny
Take a drive along the scenic route between Dalmeny and Kianga. The road follows the beaches, where you can stop to take in the beautiful coastline, look out for whales or take a dip.
Pack your bike and try out the 21km cycleway between Dalmeny and Narooma. The path hugs the shoreline and is an easy ride. Here are some suggestions for spending time in Narooma once you arrive.
Walking around Dalmeny is enjoyable via the cycleway, and promises spectacular views around every corner. There are lots of little beach areas to explore.
Head to the Whale Watching platform at Ocean Parade to see if you can spot any passing dolphins or whales or soak up the views towards Montague Island, Eurobodalla National Park and Narooma.
Go swimming. There’s no shortage of beaches for swimmers to enjoy – eight in total. There’s a patrolled beach in summer while Yabbarra Beach is more popular with surfers. Be careful if swimming here because rips are common. And if that’s not enough for you, there are more beaches to be enjoyed at nearby Kianga or in Narooma and Mystery Bay.
Keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins at the lookout on Ocean Parade.
Getting there
Dalmeny is a three-hour drive south-east of Canberra, via Batemans Bay. Follow the Kings Highway from Queanbeyan until its intersection with the Princes Highway just before Batemans Bay, then head south through Moruya. Follow the signs to Narooma, and just before you arrive in the town, you’ll see the turnoff to Dalmeny. It’s only a few kilometres off the highway via a picturesque scenic drive.
When to go
The climate at the coast is moderate, and average daily temperatures usually exceed those in Canberra, so any time of year is excellent for a visit. In summer, the water is perfect for swimming, and the long days mean you have more time to do things. Head down in autumn and spring when there are fewer people around, but the ocean is not too chilly. The crisp days of winter are great for bushwalking or biking.
It’s easy to find yourself a private spot at one of the many beaches in the area.
Key details
- Duration: Allow 3 hours each way.
- Distance from Canberra: Approximately 220 km.
- More information: How Life Should Be: Narooma
Have you been to Dalmeny? Any tips for anyone planning on visiting the area?
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