In NSW, beaches are hot spots come summer. Locals and tourists alike flock to the sandy shores of some of the most iconic stretches of beach to cool off. You’ll struggle to find a spot to park your towel at Bondi, Coogee or Tamarama, which is why if you’re looking to soak in the sun in solitude you’ll need to hit the road and find some hidden swim spots along the south coast. 

Cue: Wallagoot Gap. The spectacular gorge is found nestled within Bournda National Park, which is located on the Far South Coast of NSW. The 50 metre beach is surrounded by two 30 metre tall towering cliffs on either side, with a 10 metre gap between them. The secret swim spot can only be accessed via an easy 15-minute nature walk from Wallagoot car park on Wallagoot Lake Road. 

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Begin your walk from the car park, following the information signs. The wide track will dip through a valley and then over a rise to a sign posted intersection with a timber platform, from where you’ll get some of the best views of Wallagoot Gap. Head down the timber steps to take a dip. Thanks to the cliff walls the beach is relatively protected from the wind and waves, but the area is not patrolled by lifeguards so swimming with caution is always advised. 

From Sydney, it’s a decent road trip to get to Bournda National Park. It will take you almost six hours on the road, so if you’re looking for somewhere to holiday in seclusion this summer, the closest coastal towns to Bournda are Tathra (one kilometre away) and Merimbula (six kilometres away). If Wallagoot Gap is a little too far for you, why not try Jervis Bay’s Honeymoon Bay or dive into our list of the 9 best hidden swim spots in NSW. 

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