Weekend Getaway to Gerringong: Things to Do, Places to Eat and Where to Stay
A weekend getaway to Gerringong is an easy way to slow down by the South Coast, with beautiful ocean views, varied local dining and cafés, and a relaxed village atmosphere all within easy reach. One of the views you’ll want to make time for is along Tasman Drive, which has gained attention for being called “Australia’s prettiest street”. With rolling green hills meeting the Pacific Ocean, it captures the scenery that makes Gerringong such a memorable weekend escape.
But there is more to a Gerringong weekend than taking in the views. From exploring Werri Beach and the village to finding a good place for lunch and settling into a comfortable holiday home, the town gives you plenty to enjoy without needing to pack too much into your itinerary.
This guide brings together the best things to do, places to eat and stays to help you plan a relaxed weekend in Gerringong.
How Far is Gerringong from Sydney?
Located around 130 km south of Sydney, Gerringong is an easy coastal escape that can be reached in under two hours by car. The drive itself is part of the experience, taking you along the scenic Grand Pacific Drive with ocean views, coastal towns and natural landscapes along the way.
If you have extra time on the way down, turn the drive into part of your South Coast experience with these scenic stops on the way from Sydney to Gerringong.
- Bald Hill Lookout, Stanwell Tops: Start your coastal journey with one of the most impressive viewpoints along the route. From the clifftop lookout, you can see sweeping views across the coastline before continuing towards the famous Sea Cliff Bridge.
- Sea Cliff Bridge, Coalcliff: One of the most iconic stops on the Grand Pacific Drive, this ocean-hugging bridge gives you the chance to stretch your legs and take in views of the cliffs, coastline and Pacific Ocean.
- Austinmer or Thirroul: These relaxed beachside towns are great for a quick coffee break or a short walk by the water before continuing south. Their ocean pools and coastal atmosphere make them a popular local stop.
- Kiama Blowhole and Kiama coastline: Before reaching Gerringong, stop in Kiama to experience its famous blowhole, harbour and coastal walking tracks. It is an easy place to pause for lunch, a seaside walk or a quick photo stop.
Best Things to Do During Your Gerringong Weekend
A weekend in Gerringong is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Instead of trying to tick off every attraction, spend your time following the coastline, discovering local favourites and letting each part of the town shape your day. From swimming at Werri Beach to finding quiet ocean viewpoints and enjoying the local food scene, there is plenty to experience without feeling rushed.
Take in the views from Tasman Drive
One of the first places to stop during your Gerringong getaway is Tasman Drive, the scenic road that showcases the town’s most recognisable landscape. As the road curves towards the coastline, you’ll see rolling green hills opening towards Werri Beach and the Pacific Ocean. It is a simple stop, but one that captures the natural beauty that makes Gerringong so memorable.
- Address: Tasman Drive, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia
- Good to know: The best way to experience the view is by taking your time along the road and respecting the local residential area.
Go surfing at Werri Beach
Werri Beach is the heart of Gerringong’s coastal lifestyle. Stretching between two headlands, this beach is loved by surfers for its consistent waves, while families often head to the northern lagoon for calmer, shallow water. It is the perfect place to start your day with a swim, beach walk or simply watching the waves roll in.
- Address: Pacific Ave, Werri Beach NSW 2534, Australia
- Good to know: The northern lagoon is a calmer swimming area for families, while the southern end is popular with surfers.
Take a swim at Boat Harbour Rock Pool
When the surf feels a little too rough, locals often make their way to Boat Harbour Rock Pool for a quieter swim. Tucked beside Boat Harbour Reserve, this natural seawater pool offers a peaceful spot to cool off, with a rocky coastline setting and picnic areas nearby. It is an easy addition to a relaxed Gerringong morning.
- Address: 20 Jupiter Street, Boat Harbour, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia
- Good to know: The ocean pool is located near Boat Harbour Reserve, with parking, picnic areas and amenities available.
Walk the headlands and look for whales
For one of the best coastal views in town, head up to Gerringong Headland and the whale watching platform. During migration season, locals come here with a morning coffee to watch humpback whales travelling along the coast. Even outside whale season, the panoramic ocean views make it a beautiful place for a quiet walk or picnic.
- Address: Tasman Drive, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia
- Best time to visit: Whale migration season runs from May to November, with northern migration from late May to July and southern migration from September to November.
- Best viewing spots:
- Gerringong Whale Watching Platform: Accessed from Belinda Street near Gerringong Cemetery, this dedicated wooden platform sits above the cliffs and is the main spot for whale watching.
- Open grassy headland: Walk along the surrounding cliff edge near the platform for wider, unobstructed views across the Pacific Ocean and Werri Beach.
- Headland Reserve lookout areas: The elevated lawns along Tasman Drive between Werri Beach Rock Pool and Boat Harbour also offer beautiful coastal viewpoints and picnic spots.
Best places to eat and drink during your Gerringong weekend
One of the best parts of a Gerringong getaway is that food is naturally part of the experience. After a morning by the ocean, you can wander into town for a relaxed coffee, enjoy a long lunch overlooking the coastline, or finish the day with local wine and craft beer. These are some of the places that capture Gerringong’s laid-back dining scene.
Start your morning with coffee at Clay Coffee Collective
Tucked away from the main street, Clay Coffee Collective is a local favourite for a slower start to the day. Grab a freshly made coffee and something baked before heading out for a beach walk or exploring the town. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it the kind of café where you can sit back and enjoy the morning pace of Gerringong.
- Address: Shop 9/123 Fern Street, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia
- Opening hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Enjoy coastal dining at The Hill Bar & Kitchen
For a meal with a view, The Hill Bar & Kitchen is one of Gerringong’s most recognisable dining spots. Overlooking Werri Beach, this relaxed venue combines coastal scenery with a menu focused on fresh, locally inspired dishes. It is a great choice for a long lunch, sunset drink or casual dinner after a day exploring the coastline.
- Address: 98 Fern Street, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia
- Opening hours: Open daily
- Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
- Bar menu: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Spend the afternoon at Stoic Brewing
Hidden slightly away from the main beach strip, Stoic Brewing offers a more casual side of the town’s food and drink scene. This family-founded brewery is a local gathering place where visitors can sample small-batch beers, enjoy lunch or dinner, and settle into the relaxed atmosphere after a day outdoors.
- Address: 6/45 Rowlins Road, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
Spend an afternoon browsing Fern Street’s local shops and galleries
Gerringong’s charm extends beyond the coastline, with Fern Street offering a relaxed village shopping experience filled with local creativity. Take a slow afternoon stroll through surf stores, art galleries and independent boutiques, where you can discover everything from coastal fashion to handmade pieces and unique souvenirs.
A few places worth visiting along Fern Street include:
- Fern Street Gallery: The award-winning contemporary gallery showcases works from Australian artists, with a focus on creating a more personal connection between artists and visitors. To visit this gallery, The gallery is at 12 Farmer St, Kiama NSW 2533, Australia
- Natural Necessity Surf Shop: The shop is at 115 Fern Street, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia, which is more than just a surf shop. Natural Necessity has been a Gerringong local icon for more than 40 years, selling surf gear, coastal clothing and beach essentials.
- Rekindled Fashion: Located at 141 Fern Street, Gerringong NSW 2534, Australia, this boutique is for pre-loved and vintage fashion pieces. It is a lovely place to browse slowly and find something with a little more character than a typical holiday souvenir.
Where to stay for your Gerringong weekend getaway
After spending your days exploring beaches, coastal walks, local galleries and village dining, having the right place to return to makes your Gerringong getaway even more enjoyable. A private holiday home gives you the freedom to start the morning slowly, prepare meals together, relax after a day outdoors, and enjoy the coastline at your own pace.
The Holidays Collection offers a selection of private holiday homes in Gerringong, including both beachfront homes near Werri Beach and spacious and even pet-friendly properties designed for families and groups.
Hamilton, Gerringong (Homes with iconic coastal views)
Perched above Werri Beach on Tasman Drive, the street often described as one of Australia’s prettiest, Hamilton is a modern two-storey coastal home with a private swimming pool. The upper level brings everyone together with an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area overlooking the ocean, while the lower level provides separate bedrooms that make the home comfortable for larger families or groups. Outside, the pool, entertaining deck and backyard create an easy place to relax after a day at the beach.
Why choose Hamilton:
- Sleeps up to 12 guests across 6 bedrooms
- Two-storey layout with separate upstairs and downstairs living zones
- Open-plan kitchen, dining and living area with ocean views
- Private swimming pool and outdoor deck
- Large entertaining area with gas BBQ
- Fully fenced backyard
- Outdoor shower and steam room
- Bunk bedroom suitable for children
- Around 50 metres from Werri Beach
Discover Hamilton for a memorable stay on Gerringong’s iconic Tasman Drive.
Modern bathroom
Sleek-designed with contemporary art
Clean sleek-designed bedroom
Monotone bedroom
Bunker House, Gerringong – Homes for Large Groups
Bunker House is built for families and larger groups who want plenty of room to spread out while still sharing the holiday experience together. Across three levels, the home features multiple living areas, an open-plan kitchen and dining space overlooking the coastline, plus outdoor areas designed for long afternoons together. The heated lap pool, spa, BBQ and fire pit make the home a destination itself after exploring Gerringong.
Why choose Bunker House:
- Sleeps up to 18 guests across 7 bedrooms
- Three-level layout with multiple living zones
- Large kitchen and dining area
- Ocean views towards Werri Beach
- Heated lap pool and spa
- Outdoor entertaining area with BBQ
- Fire pit for evening gatherings
- Suitable for multi-generational families and larger groups
Explore Bunker House for a relaxed coastal retreat with family and friends.
Azzurro, Gerringong – Luxury Penthouse-style Escape
Azzurro offers a more elevated holiday experience with a penthouse-style layout in the heart of Gerringong. The home centres around a generous open-plan living and dining area, where guests can gather after exploring the coastline, while the rooftop pool and outdoor entertaining area create a private space to enjoy the views. Inside, features such as a sauna, home theatre and fireplace add comfort for slower evenings at home.
Why choose Azzurro:
- Sleeps up to 12 guests across 4 bedrooms
- Large open-plan living and dining area
- Rooftop swimming pool with coastal views
- Outdoor entertaining deck
- Private sauna
- Home theatre
- Fireplace for cooler evenings
- Walking distance to Gerringong village shops and dining
See more of Azzurro for a premium Gerringong getaway.
Sapphire on Wilson, Gerringong- Coastal Homes with Pools
Sapphire on Wilson is designed for guests who enjoy a relaxed coastal holiday with plenty of space to enjoy the home itself. The open-plan kitchen, dining and living area creates a natural gathering point, while the outdoor entertaining area and private pool make it easy to spend afternoons at home after visiting Werri Beach. A separate lounge with a pool table also gives families and groups another space to unwind together.
Why choose Sapphire on Wilson:
- Sleeps up to 8 guests across 4 bedrooms
- Private swimming pool
- Ocean views
- Outdoor entertaining area with BBQ
- Separate lounge with pool table
- Fireplace
- Spacious indoor living areas
- Close to Werri Beach and Gerringong village
See more of Sapphire on Wilson for a comfortable coastal stay.
Explore More Stays In Gerringong with The Holidays Collection
Beyond the homes featured above, The Holidays Collection has more holiday stays across Gerringong, Gerroa and Werri Beach, giving you more choices when planning your South Coast escape. With homes in different locations around the coastline, you can choose a base that keeps you close to the beaches, dining spots and local experiences you want to enjoy.
With local knowledge of the area and a collection of more than 300 holiday homes across the South Coast, The Holidays Collection makes it easier to find a stay that fits your plans. Instead of moving around, spend less time travelling between places and more time enjoying slow mornings, coastal adventures, and memorable meals during your Gerringong getaway, while enjoying 20% off by booking directly at our website.
