By Bec Dunning, of Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour
1. Lake Illawarra
Where the mountains meet the sea, or Warra in the local Aboriginal language, meaning ‘pleasant place near the sea’. Our pick of the numerous entry points is from the south-east side of Windang bridge at Reddall Parade, where you’ll find plenty of parking, the sandy shores of Lake Illawarra, and the Lake Illawarra Kiosk for a well-earned coffee after your paddle. There’s 36 sq km of water to explore. Best times are at least an hour after the high tide when the currents subside, and the paddling is at its best. We even offer Night SUP here!
2. Minnamurra River
We know paddle boarding and high winds don’t mix, so Minnamurra River is our choice when it’s a little windy. Here the meandering river with tree canopy on each side offers calm conditions. Venture up into Rocklow Creek and get amongst the mangroves. The reflection on the water creates some beautiful images. The clear water allows you to spot stingrays which often hide on the sandy bottom. Afterwards, the Minnamurra Café is a great local hidden gem.
3. Lake Illawarra Entrance (north wall)
Here’s an epic little wave for those in the know. A decent easterly swell will see waves push into the entrance, especially as the tide runs out. Perfect for SUP surfing! It’s very tidal and beginners need to show caution not to be swept beyond the rock walls. Or, better still, take a lesson with us.
4. Bass Point
On a day without swell and wind, Bass Point is a beautiful coastal paddle for intermediate and advanced paddle boarders. Our pick for entry is The Shallows, then head south towards the Gravel Loader. The water is crystal clear and often the home of passing dolphins and whales during their migration seasons.
5. Little Lake, Barrack Point
At high tide, this waterway feels like an island getaway. Safe for small kids and beginner paddlers. It’s also an excellent entry point to Warilla Beach or an ocean paddle if you’re up for it. Take our tip and go mid-week so you’ll have it all to yourself. There’s a bridge linking both sides that is a part of the Illawarra coastal bike track.
6. Jervis Bay, Huskisson
Travelling further south, say hello to our mate ‘SUP with George’ who offers stand-up paddle boarding and bike hire in Huskisson. Currambene Creek has giant smooth rays that gently glide below your boards. The water is clear and there are lots of waterways to explore.
7. Lake Illawarra Downwinding
Know your weather conditions and wind, then take off from one side of Lake Illawarrra, to be picked up on the other side. A decent wind will push you across, especially if you own a downwind paddle board. This will take a little planning and best to do with a mate, phone and GPS tracker. Good knowledge of entry and exit points and water depth is vital.
Bec Dunning and her husband, Justin, own and run Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour. Bec says: “We are both surfers and have been for over 30 years. I truly fell in love with the ocean at 13 years of age and won a couple of national titles before travelling to California for the World Titles in 1996 where I carried the Australian flag and placed 9th. Justin and I surfed the South Pacific and Indian Oceans, and Australia for 10 years before having kids. We now live the dream of owning our own SUP school, teaching beginners to advanced paddle boarders in both flat water and surf.”
Visit www.supshellharbour.com
This article is an extract from the South Coaster guide, published in December 2020, rrp $19.99, available online, at Collins Booksellers Thirroul, and the Southern Gateway Visitor Information Centre at Bulli Tops.
