Article last updated: May 2026
If you’re planning a family escape to the Shoalhaven region for the next school holiday break, there is no shortage of ways to keep everyone entertained. From wildlife cruises and rainforest walks to surf lessons, sweet treats and old-school movie nights, this part of the South Coast makes it easy to fill the days without overcomplicating the itinerary.
Thanks to its long stretch of coastline, beautiful national parks, easy day-trip options and relaxed coastal towns, Shoalhaven is one of those destinations that works just as well for energetic kids as it does for parents who want the holiday to feel genuinely restful. If you’re mapping out your stay, start with these family-friendly school holiday activities, then explore more local inspiration in Supercalla’s Jervis Bay & Surrounds guide.
From Kiama and Gerringong all the way to Huskisson and Jervis Bay, here are eight fun school holiday activities in Shoalhaven to add to your list.
Cruise & Spot Wildlife
Who doesn’t love a school holiday activity that gets the kids off screens and out on the water? From dolphin spotting to whale watching and everything in between, Jervis Bay Wild offers a range of unforgettable wildlife cruises and family-friendly adventures. It is an easy way to experience Jervis Bay from a different angle and create the kind of holiday memory that everyone still talks about on the drive home.
Scale the Treetops
For the daredevils and adventure-lovers, there is no better way to get amongst nature than by heading up into the trees. Treetops Adventure near Shoalhaven Zoo delivers zip lines, aerial challenges and climbing courses for a wide range of ages, so it is one of those rare activities that can work for little kids, older siblings and grown-ups as well.
Roar & Explore
Nestled in bushland beside the Shoalhaven River, Shoalhaven Zoo is a great all-ages day out. From lions and monkeys to native animals and reptiles, there is plenty to see, and the setting itself makes the visit feel a little more adventurous than your average zoo stop.
Get Out & About in Nature
The Shoalhaven region is blessed with some seriously beautiful natural landscapes, and there are plenty of family-friendly walks to choose from depending on how ambitious everyone is feeling. Some of our favourites include Minnamurra Rainforest, Kiama Coast Walk, White Sands Walk, Bomaderry Creek Walking Track, and Murrays Beach. Whether you want rainforest, coast, calm bay views or a gentle bush track, there is something here for every energy level.
Make a Splash at Jamberoo
Families have flocked to Jamberoo Action Park for years, and for warmer-weather school holiday trips it is still a standout. Slides, rides, wave pools and plenty of energy-burning fun make it an easy win with kids. Just make sure you check opening dates before you go, as the park runs seasonally rather than year-round.
Learn to Surf
It is no secret that the South Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in NSW, and school holidays are the perfect excuse to turn beach time into an activity. There are a number of surf schools in the region, including JB Surf School in Jervis Bay, Pam Burridge Surf Schools and Mollymook Beach Surf School in Mollymook, Currarong Surf School, and Land’s Edge Surf School in Gerroa. Book ahead if you can, especially during peak holiday periods.
A Sweet Spot for Movie Lovers (Big and Small)
If the weather turns or everyone needs a lower-key outing, take the crew to Huskisson Pictures, a charming old-school cinema that has long been part of the local community. It is the perfect rainy-day option or easy family night out after a full day of beach hopping and exploring.
Treat Them to Something Sweet
After a long day of walking, exploring and adventuring, a sugar hit can feel well deserved. Head to Berry for the famous Berry Donut Van, the old-school Treat Factory, or a pastry stop at Milkwood. It is a simple but reliable way to keep morale high after a busy day on the road.
Looking for more places to eat with the family while you are here? We’ve rounded up some of our favourite family-friendly dining spots in Shoalhaven in a separate guide.
And when it is time to wind down, you will want somewhere spacious, comfortable and family-friendly to call home. From beachside houses with big backyards to rural retreats with fire pits and games rooms, the South Coast is full of stays that suit both kids and grown-ups. Explore Supercalla’s holiday accommodation collection to find your perfect base for making memories together.