20 Best Shoalhaven Bucket List Experiences for 2026
Whether you’re looking to explore pristine beaches, enjoy luxurious gourmet experiences, or dive into nature’s wonders, this list of 20 bucket-list experiences in Shoalhaven will make 2025 your most adventurous and indulgent year yet.
20 Best Shoalhaven Bucket List Experiences for 2026
Shoalhaven is a destination that keeps on giving, offering unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to explore pristine beaches, enjoy luxurious gourmet experiences, or dive into nature’s wonders, this list of 20 bucket-list experiences in Shoalhaven will make 2026 your most adventurous and indulgent year yet.
1. 100 Beach Challenge
Shoalhaven is famous for its breathtaking beaches, making it a must to explore some of these stunning spots during your holiday. With hundreds of kilometers of coastline and just as many gorgeous beaches to discover, the choices are practically limitless. Whether you’re chasing the perfect wave, enjoying a getaway with friends, or planning a fun-filled family day, Shoalhaven’s 100 Beach Challenge will guide you to your ideal Shoalhaven destination.
2. Take a Private Helicopter Tour
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Shoalhaven region, followed by a gourmet winery lunch in the lush countryside. Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday, anniversary or special occasion, a private helicopter tour with Touchdown Helicopters in Shoalhaven is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Photo: @dineinbyBrookeSilk, Buttermilk Crème Brûlée Cheesecake with almond crumble, poached apples, Chantilly cream, and vibrant raspberries.
Learn the secrets of crafting award-winning desserts with pastry chef Brooke Silk in a hands-on, interactive workshop that can take place in the comfort of your holiday home. Figtree chef Brooke Silk not only took home third place in the dessert category at the 2024 World Food Championships in Indianapolis this year, but has earned herself an automatic “golden ticket” for the international competition next year.
4. Charter a Luxury Yacht in Jervis Bay
Experience the turquoise waters of Jervis Bay aboard a private yacht with Jervis Bay Sailing Charters. Spot dolphins, relax on secluded beaches, and sip bubbly as you sail.
5. Learn to Surf at Culburra Beach
Catch your first wave or fine-tune your surfing skills at the stunning Culburra Surf Beach—a favourite among surfers and home to pros like the renowned Wright family.
This classic, easterly facing Aussie beach boasts reliable surf conditions, making it a go-to destination for wave enthusiasts.
Tips from Burra Bike & Board Hire:
“The best time to surf here is during the summer months when the swell is usually at its smallest. Beginners will find the ideal conditions at the southern end of the beach, near Tilbury Cove off Ocean Street. For more experienced surfers, head north toward Crookhaven Heads near the caravan park for a challenge.”
Explore the serene waters of the Kangaroo River by kayak with Kangaroo Valley Adventure Co, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. If kayaking isn’t your thing, they also offer bushwalking, canoeing, or guided adventures. View our Kangaroo Valley Properties
Discover Shoalhaven’s best waterfalls, including Fitzroy Falls, Carrington Falls, and the two-tiered beauty of Belmore Falls. If outdoor adventure is your thing, Shoalhaven has plenty to offer. Find out about more outdoor adventures here.
8. Celebrate Christmas in July
Gather your loved ones for a cosy winter weekend with private dining, festive decorations, and wine by the fire. At Supercalla Private Properties, we can connect you with our tried and tested caterers, in-house private chefs, or event suppliers to make your experience one to remember. See more tips for hosting the ultimate Friendmas lunch with Supercalla here.
9. Explore the White Sands Walk
Take in Shoalhaven’s beauty with a stroll along the White Sands Walk, which connects some of Jervis Bay’s most pristine beaches. The 2.5km (90min return) walk begins at Greenfield Beach picnic area in Vincentia and takes you through peaceful coastal forest, past stunning ocean views. Stop for a swim, and spot dolphins, birds and echidnas along the way!
10. Master the Art of Pasta
Join a pasta-making class with Pasta Buoy and learn how to create delicious handmade pasta from scratch. We can also arrange to have a private pasta making session in the comfort of your holiday home.
11. Plan a Wellness Escape
Relax and recharge with yoga, meditation, and spa treatments in the comfort of your Supercalla Private Properties holiday home. After booking your holiday, we can connect you with the right person for a bespoke wellness concierge.
12. Star-Gaze by the Fire
Spend an evening under Shoalhaven’s clear night skies, complete with a cosy outdoor firepit and toasted marshmallows. We provide ample firewood, kindling and instructions for all of our homes with a firepit or fireplace, to make it as easy as possible for you!
13. Visit a Winery in Shoalhaven
Embark on a wine-tasting tour of Shoalhaven’s best wineries, including Cambewarra Estate, Silos Estate, Mountain Ridge Wines, Yarrawa Estate Winery and Coolongatta Estate, known for their exceptional vintages, stunning views and inviting atmosphere. See more on Shoalhaven wineries to visit here.
14. Take a Sunset Picnic to Orion Beach
We LOVE Orion’s Beach. This little hamlet is secluded and calm, ideal for private picnics and blissful swimming. We have a number of stunning properties located close to Orion’s, including Beachstone, Minerva Cottage, and Bethany Beach House.
15. Enjoy a Dolphin or Whale Watching Cruise
Join a dolphin or whale watching tour in Jervis Bay and see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Winter marks the migration season for majestic whales along the South Coast. Witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat with a whale or dolphin watching tour with Jervis Bay Wild or Jervis Bay Dolphin Watch.
Known for its impossibly white sand, Hyams Beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun or take a leisurely walk along the shore.
18. Road Trip To Berry
Photo: Il Locale, Berry
Whether you’re seeking a weekend to explore a new food scene, peruse boutique shops and markets, immerse yourself in cultural experiences, or simply relax and unwind, Berry offers something for everyone to enjoy. See our top 10 things to add to your Berry bucket list here.
Perfect for families, Shoalhaven Zoo offers up-close encounters with native Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and exotic birds. Located along the scenic Shoalhaven River, the zoo also features thrilling experiences like feeding lions, holding a python, or joining a zookeeper for a behind-the-scenes tour. It’s a day of adventure and education for kids and adults alike.
20. Host a Luxurious Long Lunch
Photo: The Casa, Kangaroo Valley
Plan a private long lunch at one of our picturesque Shoalhaven properties, where stunning views meet culinary indulgence. At Supercalla, we can connect you with our contacts for the ultimate luxurious long lunch! Enjoy a curated menu of fresh, locally sourced produce paired with premium Shoalhaven wines. Add extra flair with floral arrangements, personalised table settings, and live music for a truly memorable event. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying good company in style.
BONUS EXPERIENCES
Bonus #1. Jim Wild’s Oysters
Photo: A plate of opened oysters with a lemon wedge on top is held in the foreground, with a dock, boat, and Shoalhaven waterfront visible in the blurred background—a true Bucket List Experience in Shoalhaven.
If you love fresh seafood, make time for Jim Wild’s Oysters at Greenwell Point. It’s a working, family-run oyster farm on the foreshore of the Crookhaven River, serving oysters shucked to order with river views. Order a dozen Sydney Rock oysters, add local prawns, then settle in for a slow lunch by the water.
Swap the drive around the bay for the Myola to Huskisson ferry. The trip takes around 10 minutes and drops you straight into the heart of Huskisson near the wharf, cafes, and shops. It’s set up for bikes, prams, and beach gear, so it’s an easy win for families and day trippers. Timetables vary by season, so check ahead before you plan your day.
Bonus #3. Berry Donut Van
Photo Credit: The Berry Donut Van, sourced from Visit NSW.
No Berry trip feels complete without a stop at the Berry Donut Van. It’s an icon on Queen Street, known for hot cinnamon donuts cooked fresh while you wait. Grab a bag for the car, or eat them straight away while they’re still warm. Expect a line on weekends and school holidays, it moves fast and it’s worth it.
