Broulee: Beach, Surf and Coastal History

Broulee combines surfing activities at Broulee Beach with a path to the island, views from the headland and historical themes. When looking for a hotel in Broulee, you can consider which of these aspects of the town you want to shape your stay: beach activities, a section of the path to the island, or natural and cultural history. These differences offer concrete pointers for planning your own trip.

Surfing and beach patrols

The Famous Broulee Surf School offers beginner lessons at Broulee Beach. It is the longest-running surf school in the Eurobodalla region. If you plan to take a beginner surf lesson, check lesson availability before you arrive.

Volunteer lifesavers from the Broulee Surfers Surf Life Saving Club patrol Broulee Beach from September to April. Specific patrol days may vary, so take this into account when planning the timing of a beach visit. The club also offers Nippers for children aged 7 to 13.

Island walk, views and ocean swim

The Broulee Island Walk starts at the Broulee Island Walk Carpark at the southern end of North Broulee Beach. From there, a path leads to Shark Bay; a short stretch of beach continues the route to the island. Check the tides, swell and weather before setting out. These conditions are especially relevant when planning for the beach section described.

The Broulee Headland Lookout offers a different perspective, with wide-ranging views across the ocean, the town, the coast and the hinterland. The lookout and the island walk therefore offer different ways to experience Broulee: one with sweeping views of the surroundings, the other following the described route to Shark Bay and onwards to the island.

The Hotondo Homes Broulee Bay to Breakers Ocean Swim also has two distinct course options. The 500-metre course is intended for juniors and beginners. The classic 1.4-kilometre course runs from Shark Bay around the headland to Bengello Beach. The distances and routes make it easier to compare the available options. If you want to include the swim in your travel plans, check the current event details in advance.

Coastal landscape and history

Broulee was the first port in Eurobodalla. The Broulee Heritage Area includes a monument to the settlers and Traditional Owners who rescued people from the wreck of the schooner Rover in 1841. This historical connection links the town to a specific rescue story from 1841.

Broulee Island Nature Reserve borders the coastal village of Broulee. Its vegetation includes mangroves on rocky platforms beside the shore and open forest dominated by Southern Mahogany. In sheltered areas, rainforest species occur occasionally. The description thus ranges from the rocky platforms by the shore to sheltered areas with occasional rainforest species.

Historical traces in the reserve also offer insight into different past uses and remnants. These include Aboriginal shell middens, the site of an island hotel, a grave and the remains of a pier. Here, Broulee’s coastal landscape, walking routes and local history come together.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Batemans Bay, Dalmeny, Kianga, Potato Point, Moruya, Mossy Point, Long Beach, Narooma.

For the broader travel overview: Eurobodalla Shire Council.