Escape the Ordinary at Shell Cove

Escape the ordinary and head to a coastal haven where clear blue waters meet dramatic escarpments, dolphins frolic in the bay, and a relaxed coastal vibe makes every day feel like a holiday. This is Shell Cove — a hidden gem on the NSW South Coast, that’s quickly becoming a must-visit destination.

Move over Noosa, Byron, and Lorne –there’s a new contender vying fora place among Australia’s most iconic coastal destinations. Shell Cove, with its sparkling harbour, pristine beaches, and vibrant community, is captivating hearts and drawing visitors to the shores of the idyllic NSW South Coast. A collaborative venture between Shellharbour City Council and Frasers Property Australia, the masterplanned suburb of Shell Cove has been decades in the making. Today, with its bustling marina, pristine beach, thriving town centre, and soon-to-be-open luxury Crowne Plaza hotel, Shell Cove has truly come into its own, attracting residents and visitors alike with its unique blend of seaside charm and modern living.

“Coastal towns like Lorne, Byron, and Noosa have had the luxury of time — well over a century in fact — to organically evolve into the beloved places they are today,” says Mat Gulliver, Shell Cove’s Development Director. “Thanks to intentional design and masterplanning, as well as the wonders of modern technology, we’ve been able to achieve destination-status at Shell Cove in a little over 30 years. That’s a pretty remarkable thing to be a part of – creating this vibrant coastal community that captures the essence of those iconic destinations, but with a fresh, contemporary feel.”

Spend a day in paradise

Start your day with a sunrise stroll along the Shellharbour Marina, watching the fishing boats return with their catch. Grab a coffee and pastry at Georgia Rose, a family-friendly cafe with stunning harbour views. Feeling adventurous? Take to the skies with a thrilling skydiving experience or explore the lush hinterland on a scenic bushwalk. For lunch, head to The Waterfront Dining Precinct, a culinary haven offering a diverse array of restaurants and cafes. Indulge in fresh seafood at Blue Fin & Marina, savour modern Australian cuisine at The Waterfront Tavern, or treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of artisanal ice cream at Bliss.

“The waterfront dining precinct is a real highlight,” says Gulliver. “With its alfresco dining and spectacular marina views, it's the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.”In the afternoon, embark on a marine adventure with Shellharbour Wild. From May to November, witness the majestic humpback whales on their annual migration. Year-round, enjoy scenic cruises to nearby islands, encountering dolphins and fur seals along the way. Or simply soak up the sun on the pristine sands of Shellharbour South Beach, or the kids beach on the harbour foreshore, taking a refreshing dip in crystal-clear Pacific waters. As the sun sets, the marina comes alive with twinkling lights and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy live music at one of the waterfront bars, or simply wander hand-in-hand along the boardwalk, taking in the views.

Where to stay: coastal luxury awaits

For a truly indulgent experience, book a stay at the Crowne Plaza Shell Cove Marina Hotel, set to open in 2025. This luxury hotel will offer contemporary rooms with stunning harbour views, a resort-style pool, and dining options. "The Crowne Plaza will be a game-changer for Shell Cove,” says Mat. “It will offer world-class accommodation option for holidaymakers, and a drawcard for businesses who want to bring their staff here for conferences, symposiums, and corporate retreats. The hotel is really the missing piece of the puzzle – once it opens, I think we’ll see a lot more people discovering what makes this place so special.”

Living the dream

For some, a visit to The Waterfront, Shell Cove simply isn’t enough. The allure of the coastal lifestyle, the vibrant community, and the stunning natural beauty can be hard to resist. If you find yourself yearning for a permanent slice of paradise, explore the unique land options nestled between the beach and the harbour or the luxurious harbourfront Vela apartments.

Nestled within this coastal haven is The Peninsula, an exclusive collection of premium land lots offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build your forever home. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, with the pristine sands of Shellharbour South Beach and the vibrant Shellharbour Marina just steps from your doorstep. Choose from a selection of coastal, beachfront, or absolute harbourfront lots, ranging in size from 450 sqm to 550 sqm, and create a bespoke residence that perfectly complements your lifestyle.

If apartment living is more your style, Vela presents the epitome of harbourfront luxury. These exquisite 2- & 3-bedroom residences offer absolute waterfront living, with the beach and the bustling marina at your doorstep. Wake up to breathtaking marina views and enjoy spacious open-plan living areas that flow seamlessly onto expansive balconies or courtyards. Vela residents enjoy exclusive access to a resort-style pool overlooking the harbour, a poolside terrace with BBQ facilities, a fully equipped gym, and a resident’s lounge and dining room, perfect for entertaining guests. With its prime location, just a short stroll from The Waterfront Dining Precinct and Town Centre, Vela offers a lifestyle of unparalleled convenience and coastal sophistication.

Life’s a beach

Australians have always held a deep affection for their iconic coastal towns – those idyllic escapes where life moves at a slower pace and the beauty of the natural world takes centre stage. From the sun-drenched shores of Noosa to the rugged charm of Byron Bay, these destinations hold a special place in the nation’s heart. Now, Shell Cove emerges as a quiet contender, captivating visitors with its own unique blend of coastal allure and modern sophistication. With its sparkling harbour, pristine beaches, vibrant community, and first-class amenities, Shell Cove is poised to become one of Australia's most sought-after coastal destinations, a place where holiday memories are made and the dream of seaside living comes to life.