If you want to channel your inner adventurer over the long summer holidays, NSW's Sapphire Coast is the place to be.
The region on the far south coast of NSW, between Bermagui and the Victorian border, will be a hive of activity over the Christmas break with lots more on offer than the usual beachside activities.
For those who like to go in search of where the wild things are, the Marine Discovery Centre at Eden is offering a tailored-to-you program of workshops themed 'soft and squishy', aimed at de-mystifying some of our common underwater creatures.
If you have a family or group of four or more, the Marine Discovery Centre team will fit in with your holiday timetable - as well as tides and weather - and schedule a discovery programme to suit. There are sessions geared to children and families as well as some advanced activities for adults who would like to know more (for example, there's more to a squid than slice, dice and toss in salt and pepper!). Just contact the Centre to book a time (www.sapphirecoastdiscovery.com.au or phone [02] 6496 1699).
It's action a-plenty with the National Parks and Wildlife Service's Discovery walks, talks and tours programme, which is being run at different park areas along the coast, as well as some inland sites.
Snakes and snorkels, platypus and planets and koalas and canoes are all part of a varied timetable designed to highlight some of the stunning beaches, camping areas and lagoons that stud the area.
There's also a 4WD Tag-Along Tour of the South East Forest National Park for those who like to get off the beaten track, but with some expert advice on hand. Check the timetable on the Sapphire Coast website (details below) and book your adventure by calling 1300 361 606.
And if your tribe needs some serious activity to get their attention - and the prospect of some great prizes - then sign on to compete in the 10th annual Tathra Wharf to Waves weekend, January 15 to 16.
There is a series of 600m age-based ocean swims and the 1200m 'Splash for Cash' open race, all starting from the Tathra Wharf and finishing on the beach in front of the Tathra Surf Club. There's a race for every age group and ability, and you'll feel good knowing you are raising funds for the local life saving club, preschool and rural fire service.
But if you're more of a runner than a swimmer, you can still be a part of the action by competing in the 2km fun run along the beach, or for those who favour two wheels rather than two legs, there's the scenic 30km Bridge To Bridge mountain bike race from Bega to Tathra. Check out the website for all the details (www.tathrawharf2waves.com).
You can find details on accommodation as well as information on these and other activities by visiting www.sapphirecoast.com.au or calling toll-free on 1800 150 457.
