Flatwater or sea, paddle away from it all to discover some of the quietest and least touched places in Australia, or glide in for lunch at a waterside cafe or restaurant. Paddle rivers, estuaries, creeks, inlets, lakes and the ocean in some of the cleanest water in the world.

The mild winters make it easy to enjoy paddling all year round. Each season brings its own palette of colours to the sea and landscape.

Kayaking

Cullendulla Creek Nature Reserve

A 20 kilometre paddle with options for shorter trips. Launch at Corrigans Beach and follow the coastline south east keeping a safe distance from the rocky cliffs. Follow headlands and sheltered bays to Mosquito Bay with a landing option at the protected boat ramp.

From here conditions are subject to weather and the next stage should only be attempted by experienced groups in kind weather. The paddling becomes more spectacular as you go round Pretty Point and Jimmies Island and there is a sheltered landing point at Guerilla Bay.

The next stage is committing and should only be attempted with the right conditions, group, fitness level and craft. Burrewarra Point, protected by a lighthouse and high cliffs, has secluded beaches, reefs and islets. Rounding the protruding point is the climax of this journey. As you head west, the mountains and beaches offer protection from northerly weather patterns. Explore Barlings Island then across the bay to the entrance of the Tomaga River at Mossy Point. The river bar is only navigable in small swell.

A trip of this kind is not to be attempted in rough weather or wind. Boat ramps, parking and toilets are at Corrigans Beach, Mosquito Bay and Mossy Point.

Kayaking Batehaven to Mossy Point

From Nelligen the Clyde River snakes 25 kilometres to the tidal limit at Shallow Crossing. Explore the tributaries and be prepared to cross shallow water spots and pebble races.

Launch spots on either side of the causeway at the privately owned-campground at Shallow Crossing.

Paddle another 10 to 15 kilometres up this lush, freshwater section depending on the water level, flows and accessibility.

Expect to experience shallow water, small rapids and trees across the river. If the water levels are high, drive up River Road to Brooman and launch from there for a worthwhile one-way trip down the river to Shallow Crossing.

Kayaking the Upper Clyde River - Shallow Crossing

North Head Lookout

An expansive river famous for its oysters and surrounding national park.

Launch into shallow water on the north or south side of Batemans Bay Bridge. For a 15 kilometres one-way paddle head up to Nelligen. You will pass the Clyde River National Park's Big and Little Island, with landing spots on both their southern shores, to land at the little beach downstream of the western boat ramp at Nelligen. Buckenbowra River is worth a side trip if time allows.

Check the tides and watch for strong tidal flows. The river bar downstream of the Batemans Bay Bridge should be avoided.

Picnic tables and toilets are at the southern boat ramp in Batemans Bay and Nelligen.

Kayaking the Lower Clyde River - Batemans Bay and Nelligen

Region X Sea Kayak and Camping Adventures

Shallow Crossing

Nelligen Kayak Hire

Nelligen

Richmond Beach

Park at Surfside Beach where the trail begins. First paddle around the point to Cullendulla Creek, where you can explore this beautiful and significant spot in your kayak or on foot. Exploration of this creek is recommended on higher or between tides. Land kayaks here and take a short walk on the unique Cullendulla Nature Reserve boardwalk with interpretive signage about the noteworthy Aboriginal history.

The upper end of the creek features the fascinating historic remains of a railway. From Cullendulla Creek Paddle to Square Head and around the spectacular Snapper Island, note that the island is a nature reserve and landings are not permitted. From here you can paddle back to Surfside Beach or finish at one of the landing stops along the way.

Distance is dependent on which route, but the return trip may be approximately 14 kilometres.

Batemans Bay Kayaking  Trail

Bay and Beyond Sea Kayak Tours

An enjoyable 17-kilometre sea paddle along a quiet coastline of small beaches and rugged headlands in Murramarang National Park. As you come past Wasp Island you will pick up the open sea conditions.

The geology here is fantastic - you're at the south end of the Sydney Sandstone Basin dating back to between 200 and 300 million years. That's 200 million years younger than the Wagonga formation which you will see emerging as you pass Dark Beach. As you round the headland north of Richmond Beach take a minute to appreciate the magnificent upward arching fold in the cliff face.

Most beaches face south east and have powerful dumping surf if a southerly swell is up. Safer landings can be found once you enter Batemans Bay. Richmond Beach is the easiest for landing.

Launch at the boat ramp at Cookies Beach off Banyandah Street, South Durras. For a shorter option, finish at Maloneys Beach. The barbecue picnic area and toilets are at Cookies Beach, Maloneys Beach and Clyde Street Boat Ramp.

South Durras to Batemans Bay - Kayaking in the Batemans Marine Park

Durras Lake Discovery Trail

Surrounded by Murramarang National Park, Durras Lake is excellent for safe exploring with many tributaries, small exposed areas and shallow bays. As you paddle up the lake you will leave the villages behind and become immersed in the wilderness of the spotted gum forest.

Launch at the end of Lakeside Drive, South Durras or via the informal boat ramp at the end of North Durras Road, North Durras. A circumnavigation could be up to 15 kilometres.

Kayaking

Kayaking Durras Lake

South Durras to Batemans Bay - Kayaking in the Batemans Marine Park

Batemans Bay Kayaking Trail

Kayaking the Lower Clyde River - Batemans Bay and Nelligen

Kayaking the Upper Clyde River - Shallow Crossing

Kayaking Batehaven to Mossy Point