7 Art Galleries and Museums to visit on the South Coast

The ‘natural canvas’ that is the South Coast already provides a breathtaking backdrop to your next holiday. But beyond the stunning landscapes and coastal beauty, our region also offers a vibrant and diverse mix of art galleries and unique museums that give fascinating insights into the past and present. You don’t have to be an avid enthusiast to enjoy them either – with something on offer for everyone. Here are our top picks:

1: Shoalhaven Regional Gallery

Located in the heart of Nowra, this major gallery showcases contemporary artworks by local, national and international artists. It also regularly hosts special exhibitions, workshops and artist talks – giving you a true immersive experience. The gallery is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am-4pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm.

2: Jervis Bay Maritime Museum

If you are anywhere near the South Coast, a visit to this picturesque waterfront museum is a great way to spend a few hours. Open 10am-4pm daily, the museum features an impressive collection of maritime artefacts, nautical equipment, interactive displays and art relating to the area. The jewel in its crown is the only surviving wooden Sydney Harbour Ferry – the Lady Denman – dating back to 1911.

3: Bundanon

This contemporary and award-winning space sits on land gifted by late artist Arthur Boyd and officially opened in 2022 – surrounded by native, bush upstream along the Shoalhaven River. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm, the complex includes a large collection in the bush-fire-proofed Art Museum, plus weekend access to Homestead and Boyd’s original studio. There is also a cafe and accommodation/creative learning centre on site.

4: Gallery Alchemy

Established in 2021, this contemporary gallery is located in the art-infused township of Milton, with curated exhibitions of paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture and mixed media open to the public from 10-4pm Wednesday to Sunday. It proudly presents a mix of works by emerging and established artists and makers, both local and international.

5: Berry Museum

This free museum sits in a heritage-listed building and is open weekends and public holidays. Browse photographs, documents and artefacts as you learn about the early settlers who shaped the development of the town and beyond. A great way to step back in time to explore Berry’s timber, dairy and agricultural beginnings.

6: Giriwa Garuwanga Art Gallery

Located in the Ulladulla Local Aboriginal Land Council office, this small gallery is Aboriginal-owned and operated – featuring artworks and products by local artists. Along with traditional and contemporary art and canvases, you will also find boomerang, clap sticks and a range of clothing and accessories by local Twisted Snake Designs for a unique souvenir.

7: Fleet Air Museum

The Fleet Air arm of the Australian Navy has been based at HMAS Albatross, just outside Nowra, since the late 1940s. This volunteer-run museum sits at the gates and was established in 1974, now proudly one of the largest regional aviation museums in NSW – with more than 30 aircraft and numerous aviation artefacts on show. A fascinating visit to explore the evolution of ‘wings of water’ in the defence context. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm.