Seven Mile Beach National Park

Seven Mile Beach National Park is located on the coast of New South Wales, Australia, approximately 140 km south of Sydney and 10 km southeast of the town of Shoalhaven Heads. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Shoalhaven River, the park is part of the Illawarra region and covers 898 hectares of natural coastal beauty. The park was established in 1973 to protect the fragile coastal dune ecosystems, tall forests, and the sweeping expanse of Seven Mile Beach. Historically, the beach holds cultural significance, as it was the location of Charles Kingsford Smith’s famous 1933 flight from Australia to New Zealand. The park has since become a popular destination for visitors seeking to enjoy its natural landscapes and historical significance. Parking facilities are available at key points within the park, including the Beach Road car park and the Gerroa picnic area. Parking is free, and visitors will find picnic tables, barbecue areas, and restrooms close to the parking spots. The park’s open spaces and proximity to the beach make it ideal for picnicking, swimming, and walking. The park is home to various native wildlife species, including eastern grey kangaroos, bandicoots, and a wide array of birdlife. Birdwatchers can spot species like black cockatoos, sea eagles, and pied oystercatchers along the coast. The nearby wetlands also attract waders and waterbirds, making it a haven for nature lovers. The flora of Seven Mile Beach National Park is dominated by coastal forests and heathlands, with species such as bangalay, coast banksia, and wattle. The coastal dunes are dotted with spinifex and pigface, which help stabilize the fragile ecosystem. Notable features of the park include the expansive Seven Mile Beach itself, offering stunning views of the coastline, and walking trails through the coastal forest. Public transport to the park is limited, so visitors typically drive. The closest town, Shoalhaven Heads, is a short drive away, offering additional amenities.