Narooma/Mystery Bay/Tilba: attractions
MYSTERY BAY
Mystery Bay is a 10 minute drive south of Narooma
and is a small residential pocket just off the highway (yes there is a mystery associated with the beach). We are a part of the sought after properties in the old section comprising the original shack/beach houses in 3 streets running parallel to the beach. These streets are also cul de sacs running up against a state forest. Mystery Bay Beach House is one of 2 houses that have a bit of everything.. a view, the beach and the forest at the very end of a cul de sac. The beach is unique in its variety.. there are swimming gaps between the rocks and the choice of making a left or right hand turn each morning for swims, walks or fishing.. to socialize turn left to the main beach otherwise go right to the national park beaches which run almost as far as you can walk.... but remember your camera if you go this way.... there are many different little beaches and fascinating rock formations along the way.
So, its beautiful, quiet and secluded.
TILBA
Not quite 10 minutes in the other direction is another must see... Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba in a small, deep valley amongst huge granite boulders. These are the original rural centres of farming, dairy (cheese factory) gold mining etc. but now tourist oriented but with the original character of the buildings well preserved. Most of the usual tourist tack is not here instead there are arts and crafts in the shape of wood, leather, alpaca products etc.
NAROOMA
Narooma is the main town to shop (Woolworths), to eat (down on the lake front), play golf along the ocean ciff tops etc. The following is a description from the local tourist body:
"Narooma is built on land almost completely surrounded by the waters of Wagonga River, its estuary and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Narooma's name comes from an aboriginal word meaning clear blue water. These waterways have been the very reason for Narooma's existence, from its early days as a port for the transport of local produce and as a ship building centre and through its many years since, as a popular tourist destination.
All types of water sports can be enjoyed around Narooma and fishing and swimming are the most popular. A few commercial fishermen still operate out of Narooma but there is plenty for the amateur with all year catches of bream, flathead, trevally, tailor and for the more adventurous, big game fishing with charters operating locally. Narooma is famous for its fishing and thousands come here each year to try their luck.
The water sport beginner or long time enthusiast are both well looked after with sporting goods, fishing tackle, bait and advice all readily available. Boat hire and charter is also well represented and a trip to Montague Island is a must for all visitors.
If you want to spend some time on our beautiful beaches, you'll be greeted by clean, clear waters, golden stretches of sand and a variety of water conditions to suit all levels of paddlers, swimmers and surfers.
Whale watching is one of the most popular attractions and several charter boats operate locally to give the visitor an exciting experience viewing these magnificent creatures in their element.
Narooma's visitor information centre houses a museum of the history of nearby Montague Island. A scaled replica of Montague's historic lighthouse is at one end and it houses the fascinating light mechanism brought from the island.
Also famous in Narooma is its cliff top golf course which affords magnificent views of the coastline to the north and south and of Montague Island. This 18 hole course is recognized as one of the best in Australia. It features a pro shop with a good range of gear for sale and hire, a friendly clubhouse and a licensed restaurant which has superb views and offers delicious fresh local seafood including Narooma's own superb oysters.
There are a lot of scenic pleasures around Narooma and you can appreciate and explore these on walking trails and tourist drives. The natural environment is clean and respected and the forests and National Parks in the area will take your breath away.
Recover it in time to enjoy the fine dining and shopping available in town. A variety of restaurants and snack foods will keep your energy levels primed for adventuring and surfing. All the staple requirements plus specialty crafts, gifts and souvenirs and lots more are on offer.
Entertainment is presented at the town's licensed clubs and hotels and live acts come from afar to these venues.
The coastal villages of Dalmeny and Kianga are only a short drive north of Narooma and feature attractive coastal vistas and great beaches."