Meandering to Mollymook

After breakfast we explored the attractive no-wave beach at the northern side of the Clyde estuary. We had seen it from our hotel room, but after crossing the bridge it is fortified from overuse by a no-right turn and the next road a long winding avenue of (probably) holiday houses and finally a fenced caravan park hugging the shore.

We decided to move northwards, and turned off next on the South Durras road, which wends back to the coast through the beautifully treed Murramarang   National Park. A gravel off road headed to beckoned to North Head lookout, but we bypassed this way because of respect for the potential limits of car hire and then a 300 metre track. Nevertheless NSW Parks says those more intrepid than us will be rewarded : “The spectacular cliffs along the Murramarang coastline are on fine display from North Head lookout. After following a well-formed track for 300 metres over gently undulating hills, you’ll arrive at a safe vantage spot with excellent views of the coastal headland and the wide blue sea. Bring the kids and a pair of binoculars – whales migrate past in winter, making this a perfect spot for whale watching. Pods of dolphins are often visible.”

NSW Parks photo

We touched coast at the magnificent Durras beach, which must be among the best on the south coast, continuing almost completely as created. We began to stroll along, but soon realised that our entry point was unmarked, and we were in danger of becoming lost! We literally retraced our footsteps in the sand to regain our car. 

Around a bend or two in the road we reached Durras Lake, and spent an idle time watching two or three fisherpeople fruitlessly casting rod lines.

 When the time was ripe we got back onto the highway and Ulladulla for lunch. It has matured into another busy town since I was last here. We made a fortunate pick for lunch café “Native” with an outside view of the small harbour and an attractive seawall.

We were also fortunate to see a large black ray sporting about very close to shore as we walked around the bay. I think we were the sole witnesses.

We arrived at Mollymook early afternoon and prepared for our two day stay. Our room has a good view from the first floor balcony.