Moruya is a historic riverside town in the heart of the Eurobodalla region, surrounded by stunning scenery, beaches and the massive Deua National Park. The town has a mix of scenic views, history and community. Whether you’re into adventure, history or just looking for a quiet escape, Moruya has something for every type of traveller.
Close to beautiful beaches, forests and rivers it’s a great destination for locals and visitors. Whether you want to walk the riverbanks, do outdoor activities or soak up the cultural atmosphere, Moruya delivers. For more Moruya and Eurobodalla travel info visit Eurobodalla.
A Town with Aboriginal Heritage
Moruya is a town with a strong Aboriginal heritage, the Yuin people are the traditional owners of the land. Their connection is visible through landmarks like Mogendoura Mountain, stories and art. Visitors can experience this heritage through guided cultural tours, learning about traditional fishing, bush tucker and the spiritual landscape.
These cultural experiences give insight into the Yuin people’s deep connection to the land and their sustainable practices. These tours give you a glimpse into Moruya’s cultural depth, community, storytelling and the Yuin people’s ongoing connection to the land.
Natural surrounds of Moruya
The natural beauty surrounding Moruya is stunning. The Moruya River runs through the town, with scenic views and great kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing opportunities. Moruya Heads is just a short drive away with coastal views and surf. Deua National Park is a nature lover and bushwalker’s paradise.
The park has rugged trails, limestone caves and lookouts. Wildlife enthusiasts can see kangaroos, lyrebirds and many native animals. For more info visit NSW National Parks.
Moruya’s History
Moruya has a long history, first inhabited by the Yuin people, the traditional owners of the land. The town’s name means “home of the black swan”, reflecting its cultural and environmental importance.
During European settlement Moruya was famous for its granite quarries which supplied stone for the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the 1920s and 1930s. This is still a big part of the town’s identity.
For more Moruya history visit the Eurobodalla Shire Council where local archives and exhibits show the town’s cultural and environmental significance and how it links to the present day community.
How far is Moruya from Sydney?
Moruya is 305km south of Sydney, making it a great weekend getaway. The Princes Highway is a beautiful drive with many great stops along the way, including Batemans Bay and Ulladulla. These stops are great places to take in the coastal views, relax and visit local attractions.
If you want to get here quicker Moruya Airport has flights from Sydney and Melbourne so you can get here fast. Whether you drive along the scenic highways or fly, the combination of scenic stops and smooth travel will make the journey to Moruya a memorable part of your trip, combining stunning landscapes with relaxation and adventure.
What to do in Moruya
Moruya has plenty to offer visitors. The Moruya Country Markets are every Saturday along the river, showcasing the town’s community spirit. Nature lovers will enjoy Bingie Beach for its views and relaxed atmosphere. You can find handmade crafts, organic produce, baked goods and artisanal products and live music. More info on Moruya Country Markets.
Another Moruya highlight is the Historic Quarry which was the source of stone for the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Guided tours will give you insight into Moruya’s industrial past. For the outdoor enthusiasts there’s surfing at South Broulee Beach, mountain biking at Maulbrooks Road Reserve and horse riding.
Off the beaten track in Moruya
Moruya has some unusual and quirky things to do. Preddy’s Wharf is a peaceful riverside spot to collect shells and watch marine life. Broulee Island is just a short drive away and is great for wildlife spotting, especially migratory birds. For a quieter coastal experience Congo Beach has walking trails, views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a day of relaxation surrounded by nature. These experiences show off Moruya’s natural beauty and biodiversity and give you a chance to interact with the environment.
For art lovers the Moruya Studio Gallery is where you can see the work of local artists and unique expressions. Bowerbird Marketplace is a great place to find local goods, handmade crafts and products so you can get a taste of Moruya’s community spirit and artisanal style. These local experiences make Moruya not just a beautiful destination but a creative and community hub.
Moruya Shops
Moruya’s shopping scene has a lovely mix of artisanal and community spirit. The town has local shops, thrift shops and galleries selling handcrafted goods, vintage treasures and antiques that are Moruya’s unique local style. The Moruya Country Market is a must see for fresh produce, handmade crafts and local finds.
For an even more local experience the SAGE Farmers Market is every Tuesday afternoon at Riverside Park with fresh local produce, artisanal goods and specialty items all about sustainability and community.
Moruya Accommodation
Moruya has accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. The Moruya Waterfront Hotel Motel is a favourite for its central location and river views so is a great choice for visitors. Close to all the local attractions and scenery it’s perfect for a weekend away or a longer stay.
For couples and families looking for privacy and scenic views Riverside Retreats has river facing retreats. For a more rural experience farm stays are an option where you can experience life on the land and connect with nature and the surrounding landscape.
Moruya to Canberra
If driving from Canberra Moruya is 2 hours (150km) via the Kings Highway. The drive is scenic with mountains, valleys and coastal views. Whether it’s the greenery or the coastal views the journey is as lovely as the destination and a perfect mix of nature and scenic beauty.
This drive makes Moruya a perfect weekend away for Canberra residents looking for a coastal break. You can leave the mountains of the inland behind and transition to the coastal charm of Moruya and relax, explore and connect with nature. The combination of beautiful scenery and ease of access makes Moruya a top pick for a quick and easy escape from city life.
Batemans Bay to Moruya
Batemans Bay is just 25km north of Moruya and makes a great day trip. Visitors often combine a trip to Moruya with a visit to Batemans Bay to see the beaches, coastal scenery and laid back atmosphere. The short and scenic drive along the coast is beautiful and you can see both towns in a day.
This combination gives you a true Eurobodalla experience with beautiful natural scenery and vibrant shopping and cafes. Whether you like beach activities, dining or just chillin’ in the coastal vibe Moruya and Batemans Bay are close enough to have a seamless and enjoyable day. It’s the perfect way to experience the laid back lifestyle and scenic beauty of the Eurobodalla region.
Moruya Map
A map is a must have to make the most of your time in Moruya. It shows key landmarks like fishing spots, lookouts and cycling trails so you don’t miss out on the best outdoor experiences. Visitors can pick up these maps at local visitor centres which have comprehensive guides to walking paths, view points and the best outdoor spots in and around Moruya.
Whether you’re kayaking on the river or hiking in the nearby reserves a map will help you navigate the town and surrounding areas. It will also enable you to make the most of Moruya’s natural beauty and outdoor opportunities and have the ultimate adventure. Exploring with a detailed map is a smooth and enjoyable journey and will help you discover Moruya’s hidden treasures.
Plan Your Visit
Moruya has a mix of natural beauty, history and community charm for all types of visitors. Whether you’re visiting the markets, beaches or cultural attractions there’s something to see and do in Moruya’s landscapes and community.
Get more local knowledge by visiting Eurobodalla Shire Council to find out about Moruya’s history, attractions and community. The council’s resources will give you a deeper insight into the town’s natural beauty, history and local culture and make your visit even better.
