The Shellharbour Boat Ramp at North Beach on Towns Street in Shellharbour offers a practical and well-positioned launching point for local boaters. Featuring a two-lane concrete ramp, it provides efficient access to the water, with the waterway accessible at all times. For those heading offshore, it’s a particularly convenient departure point, although the bar can become challenging in unsettled conditions and requires care.
As the original boat ramp servicing the Shellharbour area, it has long been a reliable facility for recreational fishers and offshore enthusiasts. One of its advantages is the protected area where boats can be safely offloaded before parking your vehicle and trailer. There is also a communications tower onsite, allowing skippers to report before heading out to sea and again upon their return; a reassuring feature for those venturing beyond the heads.
The ramp itself is supported by a single pontoon positioned on one side, which assists with launching and retrieval. However, it can become busy, particularly on weekends and during favourable weather windows. Boaters planning an early start will generally find the experience more relaxed.
Facilities at the site are practical and well used. A dedicated fish-cleaning station with wash sinks makes it easy to prepare your catch before heading home. As expected in a coastal setting, the local pelicans and seagulls are usually close by, patiently waiting for scraps. There is also ample space for car and trailer parking, which is an important consideration during peak boating periods.
Beyond its function as a boating hub, the area offers plenty to enjoy for family and visitors alike. The adjacent car park provides a comfortable vantage point to sit and watch the surfers working the waves at North Beach. A short stroll along the shoreline takes you toward the nearby hotel on the corner, while shops are located just up the road for a coffee or quick bite. On warmer days, the ocean pools offer a refreshing swim with sweeping coastal views.
Shellharbour North Beach is also a pleasant setting for fishing from shore, picnicking with family, or simply enjoying a relaxed walk along the waterfront. The area is known for its abundance of pelicans, adding to the coastal character, while surfers regularly make the most of the rolling swells.
Overall, the Shellharbour Boat Ramp combines practical boating infrastructure with a laid-back coastal atmosphere. Whether you’re launching for an offshore fishing trip or spending a quiet afternoon by the water, it remains a well-regarded and versatile spot along the coast.
| Feature |
Description |
| Number of ramp lanes |
2 (with pontoon) |
| Fish cleaning facilities |
Yes |
| Carpark spaces |
Enough parking spaces for car and trailers |
| Amenities |
Toilets, litter bins, fuel, lighting, kiosk |
| Ramp rating |
 - Very Good |
If you're in the area and planning to buy a boat and engine, or if you need to conduct a sea trial or service your boat engine, head over to Sunset Marine Shellharbour. It’s just 7 minutes from the boat ramp, making it incredibly convenient. At Sunset Marine, you can confidently purchase a boat and engine, get your engine serviced, and find a boat trailer along with a wide range of marine gear, supplies, and equipment. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to resupply and ensure you have everything you need for your time on the water.