If you love sun, sand, sea breezes and coastal adventure, the 100 Beach Challenge on the South Coast of New South Wales should be on your bucket list. Stretching across the stunning Shoalhaven coastline, this experience invites locals and visitors alike to explore 100 spectacular beaches – from iconic white sands to hidden coves – and fall in love with the diversity of Australia’s south-east shoreline.
What Is the 100 Beach Challenge?
Launched by Shoalhaven City Council, the 100 Beach Challenge encourages people to discover lesser-known beaches along the South Coast, not just the popular favourites like Hyams or Mollymook.
You can tackle the challenge however you like:
- Tick off beaches over a summer road trip
- Turn it into a weekend adventure with friends
- Make it a family exploration project
- Or take it slowly with peaceful coastal walks and picnics
There is no time limit. You can complete it in days, months or over a lifetime.
The Coastline You’ll Explore
The challenge covers more than 170 kilometres of pristine coastline, from Seven Mile Beach in the north to North Durras Beach in the south. Along the way you will discover a huge variety of coastal landscapes including long surf beaches, sheltered bays and secluded coves framed by rocky headlands.
Each beach offers something unique:
- Photogenic coastal views
- Surf breaks for all experience levels
- Calm, family-friendly swimming spots
- Dog-friendly stretches of sand
- Bush-to-beach walking tracks
- Beaches with 24-hour access or nearby camping
How It Works
Participants can follow a beach list and map or use the online interactive guide to track progress. Many people also share their journey on social media using the hashtag #100BeachChallenge.
The digital experience helps plan visits and record progress, making it easy to keep track of which beaches you have explored and which ones are still waiting.
Find Your Perfect Beach
To make the experience more personalised, there is a quiz that helps identify your beach personality. Whether you prefer adventure, relaxation, family outings or photography, the quiz recommends beaches that suit your style and interests.
Why the Challenge Matters
This initiative has been recognised as a major tourism success, winning awards for promoting the region’s natural beauty while encouraging visitors to explore beyond the most crowded hotspots.
By spreading visitors across more beaches, the challenge supports local communities, reduces overcrowding and showcases the diversity of the South Coast.
Tips for Your Adventure
- Plan ahead, as some beaches are more remote and may require four-wheel drive access
- Balance active days with relaxed stops at cafés, wineries and national parks
- Bring a camera, as every beach has its own unique character
Whether you’re a local looking for weekend inspiration or a visitor exploring the region, the 100 Beach Challenge is a fantastic way to experience the South Coast. It encourages you to slow down, explore widely and truly connect with the coastline.
Start ticking them off – you never know which beach will become your new favourite.
