Top Towns for 2022: Where to eat, stay and play in Narooma

The waters around this Far South Coast town are so blue they seem to have been scissored from a tourism brochure. This may have been a deciding factor in why Narooma came in at no. 42 on your pick of the Top 50 Aussie Towns. But there’s a lot more to elicit awe on Narooma’s sizzle reel.

Find the complete list of the Top 50 Aussie Towns here.

The road bends back and forth time and again as you arrive in Narooma, and the vistas are incredible. The big draw is the blue water, which is a national marine park home to sea lions, whales, dolphins, octopuses and a vast congregation of manta rays.

Staring out to sea here is like indulging in colour therapy. Tourists from Victoria and the ACT have been trickling here for decades. But they didn’t arrive in substantial numbers until Justin Hemmes turned up. The hotelier owns a property nearby, and has invested heavily in the area’s fortunes. The ocean is central to the way of life here which is precisely what appealed to Hemmes and the many sea-changers that followed him.

Best of all: you don’t need a superyacht to enjoy it; much of the town’s charms lie in the fact that its beauty is very democratic. This rugged stretch of coast is all sugar-white beaches and deep ravines that are like rips in the seam of the Earth.

Narooma aerial view — You need to see Narooma’s blues to believe them. (Image: David Rogers Photography)

As well as being a shade of blue you never knew existed, the lagoons get an influx of seawater and freshwater, the right mix of which provides premium conditions for growing oysters. In fact, judges at the Narooma Oyster Festival have declared oysters from this region to be some of the very best in the world. Beyond slurping bivalve molluscs, here is where to eat, stay and play in Narooma.

Where to eat in Narooma

You will meet some of Narooma’s salt-of-the-earth characters at SALT, which is what inspired the name of the waterfront cafe. It’s where to go to refuel on caffeine.

External view of Quarterdeck Narooma — Quarterdeck has been thoughtfully reimagined under Merivale.

Menu at Quarterdeck Narooma — The food at Quarterdeck will delight your tastebuds.

In addition to The Whale Inn , where Hemmes has opened Queen Chow, Merivale has renovated the much-loved Quarterdeck and is giving Lynch’s some love. The menu at the heritage hotel serves up classics reimagined from the period the pub was established (1895) such as beef pie with peas and potato mash as well as staples like schnitties and steak.

Lynch's Narooma — This hotel taps into its heritage that dates back to 1895.

Menu at Lynch's Narooma — Dine on reimagined pub classics at Lynch’s.

Perch, like the nearby pelicans, at The Inlet on Wagonga Inlet , which is open for takeaway only and known for its fresh fish and chips.

Menu at The Inlet Narooma — Perch for fish and chips at The Inlet.

You should also attach yourself, like one of the creatures on the rocks below, to the Oyster Farmer’s Daughter , overlooking the bright bangle of Barlows Bay, to enjoy a glass of rosé and a dozen Sydney rocks.

If you want a quiet night in, order dinner to go from Mr Bold Catering , a local chef who curates quality food boxes and heat-and-eat items or pick up some fresh fish or abalone (when in season) from Narooma Bridge Seafoods .

Things to do in Narooma

Book ahead for Southbound Escapes to pitch a pop-up picnic which will come with all the bells and whistles as well as a hamper full of treats and goodies.

Narooma EBike Southbound Escapes — Explore on e-bikes hired from Southbound Escapes. (Image: David Rogers Photography)

Southbound Escapes also hires out e-bikes and one of the best things to do in Narooma is head out, if the weather allows, with a destination in mind. In this case, we recommend hiring an e-bike that will take you to the Big Niles Brewing Co. in nearby Dalmeny, or further afield to the Dromedary Hotel in Central Tilba . You can also hire one of Mal’s BBQ Boats and putter around the protected waters stretched smooth and taut like too-tight denim around the curves of the coast.

Dalmeny Coastal Trail Narooma — E-bike the Narooma to Dalmeny Coastal Trail.

As well as the secluded bays where you can swim in solitude, you will find kayakers weaving their way around caves and emerald grottos, surfers slicing through seas shafted with sunlight, and happy hikers with suntanned legs marching around sections of coastline so jagged they seem to pierce the sky.

Montague Island Adventures will also facilitate snorkelling with seals and penguin tours in addition to its guided loops around the protected nature reserve.

Work on your handicap at Narooma Golf Club , or kick off your kicks and keep it low-key with barefoot bowls at Club Narooma.

Where to stay in Narooma

Throw back the curtains during your stay at The Whale Inn, the charming hotel Hemmes has so beautifully renovated, and you will be met with vivid colour from the sapphire-blue seas tangled like a ribbon around the fingers of land.

Book a package deal with Southbound Escapes and you will benefit from a stay at one of The Wharf apartments . You can also dispatch yourself to Amooran Oceanside Apartments and Motel or Mystery Bay Cottages , both of which are enveloped in the bucolic countryside with sweeping ocean views.

You will find Oakleigh Farm Cottages stitched onto the Far South Coast’s patchwork quilt popular for those under pressure to find pet-friendly accommodation.

If the latest Narooma rumour is true, it seems Justin Hemmes might have snatched up another place to stay in the town. Watch this space. But also know that the hotelier’s increasingly considered and restrained approach is bound to further bolster the area’s amenity and appeal and provide yet another reason to visit Narooma.

Explore more of Narooma in our travel guide or find out which other towns made it into your Top 50.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.