Thanks to a lengthy stretch of pristine coastline, gorgeous national parkland, day trip adventures and even a zoo, few NSW destinations can compete with Shoalhaven as a suitable spot for a family holiday.

If you’re planning on packing the car and making the trip for the upcoming school holidays, you certainly won’t find yourself short of things to do while you’re here, which is lucky – let’s face it, kids can be mini whirlwinds of energy and excitement.

Up and down the coast, from Kiama and Gerringong all the way to Huskisson and the stunning Jervis Bay, here are the best school holiday activities in the Shoalhaven to check out.

 

1. Ignite their inner creative

Whether your kids are big Taylor Swift fans or simply love to be creative, they’re sure to love the expert-run workshops run at Bead Shack in Gerringong. The classes are held every day in the school holidays across two time slots and cost $30 per child (with all materials included). The perfect way to keep their little hands busy for an hour or so.

2. Scale the treetops

For the daredevils and adventure-lovers, there’s no better way to get amongst nature than by spending time way up in the treetops. Located within the Shoalhaven Zoo, your kids can zipline, rock climb and tackle obstacles against the backdrop of the Shoalhaven River at Treetops Adventure. There are courses suitable for children as young as 3 years old (or 120 centimetres) right up to adults – so you can get involved, too.

3. Roar and explore

Nestled within the bushland and at the shores of the Shoalhaven River, the Shoalhaven Zoo is ideal for an entertaining day out with the whole family. From lions and monkeys to native mammals and reptiles, you and your kids will love exploring – you can even get in amongst it and feed some of the animals! The zoo is open every day from 9:00am until 5:00pm and ticket prices start at $22 for a child.

4. Get out and about in nature

The Shoalhaven region is blessed with some seriously beautiful natural landscapes, and there are a number of family-friendly walks for those who enjoy a day spent immersed in bushland and wildlife. Some of our favourites include Minnamurra Rainforest, Kiama Coast Walk, White Sands Walk, Bomaderry Creek Walking Track and Murrays Beach Walk.

5. Make a splash at Jamberoo

Families have flocked to Jamberoo Action Park for years; it is NSW’s largest family owned and operated water park, after all. Slides, rides, wave pools and special treats, it’s the perfect way to make the most of the remaining warm weather

6. Learn to surf

It’s no secret that the Shoalhaven region is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, and for kids who have some extra energy to burn can enjoy them while learning to hang ten. There are a number of surf schools in the area, including JB Surf School in Jervis Bay, Pam Burridge Surf Schools and Mollymook Beach Surf Schools in Mollymook, Currarong Surf School, and Land’s Edge Surf School in Gerroa. Make sure you book ahead!

7. Spend some time at the local library

If – god forbid – the rain sets in, both Gerringong and Kiama libraries have a host of school holiday activities on, and they range in price from completely free to a maximum of $5. Lego, sewing, painting, movies, paper craft; there’s something for every little mind and creative spirit.

8. Treat them to something sweet

After a long day of walking, exploring, adventuring and creating, it stands to reason that hungry tummies (adults included) could probably use a bit of a treat. Head to Berry to try out the famous Berry Donut Van, the old-school Treat Factory or grab a pastry from Milkwood.