Callala Bay
NSW 2540 • Rest of NSW
About Callala Bay
Callala Bay is a charming coastal town situated on the northern shore of Jervis Bay on the South Coast of New South Wales, within the City of Shoalhaven. With a population of around 2,200, it sits approximately 132 kilometres south of Sydney and 16 kilometres southeast of the regional centre of Nowra. The town enjoys an elevation of about 13 metres and benefits from a mild coastal climate with average temperatures ranging from 13°C to 20°C. Callala Bay has a relaxed, close-knit community character that draws both retirees and families.
The town offers a small but well-equipped shopping centre with a supermarket, bakery, butcher, chemist, and café, along with a primary school and medical centre. Water-based activities are central to life here, with a safe harbour, boat ramp, sailing club, and direct access to the crystal-clear waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park. Walking trails around the headland provide stunning ocean views, while community groups for crafts, gardening, yoga, and bushcare foster a strong social fabric. Callala Bay particularly appeals to sea-changers, retirees, and families seeking an affordable coastal lifestyle away from the city.
Callala Bay falls under postcode 2540 and is governed by Shoalhaven Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the South Coast electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- Route 120 — Nowra via Callala Beach 35 min
Commute to Sydney
🛣️ Most residents commute to Nowra (20 min drive) as the local regional centre. Bus service runs Monday to Saturday only, no Sunday services
Local shopping centre is walkable for nearby residents but a car is needed for most errands and commuting to Nowra or beyond.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Callala Public School ICSEA 971Emmett St
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Cambewarra Public School ICSEA 1029Kalinga St
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Culburra Public School ICSEA 952Carlton Cres
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Falls Creek Public School ICSEA 92126 Vidler St
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Greenwell Point Public School ICSEA 943Greenwell Point Rd
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Huskisson Public School ICSEA 1004Sydney St
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Dykes Ave
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Sanctuary Point Public School ICSEA 909Idlewild Ave
Housing Costs 2021 Census
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 117
- 2. New Zealand 21
- 3. Croatia 20
- 4. Netherlands 12
- 5. Scotland 12
- 6. Germany 11
- 7. Italy 10
- 8. Chile 9
- 9. Malta 9
- 10. South Africa 9
- 11. China 7
- 12. North Macedonia 5
- 13. Vietnam 5
- 14. Papua New Guinea 4
- 15. United States 4
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)