Batemans Bay: Oyster Tasting Kayak Tour with Farmers

Kayak with locals on the Clyde River & sample oysters straight from the farm

You’ll paddle calm waters with local oyster farmers in Batemans Bay, taste oysters fresh from the Clyde River, and learn about farming techniques firsthand. Expect laughter over shucked shells and quiet moments drifting past working farms—plus plenty of time to ask questions or just float and take it all in.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking equipment, a professional guide leading paddle practice and safety intro, an opening demonstration at the Oyster Shed with tastings of two local oyster varieties straight from the river that morning—and plenty of chances to chat with fourth-generation farmers before paddling back along the Clyde River estuary.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour and oyster tasting

• Introduction to equipment
• Paddle practice on calm water
• Kayak to Oyster Shed on Wray Street
• Attend oyster farming talk
• Taste fresh oysters
• Purchase oysters by the dozen
• Kayak through working oyster farms
• Return near Batemans Bay bridge

The Experience

I didn’t expect to laugh so much trying to squeeze into a lifejacket at the Batemans Bay bridge — apparently, I’m not as graceful as I thought. The river was still, almost glassy, and Jade (our guide) grinned when she handed me a paddle. “Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks.” She was right. Once we pushed off, the kayak just glided along the Clyde River and you could smell this faint saltiness mixed with something green, like wet grass after rain. There were pelicans too — one of them followed us for a bit, probably hoping for snacks.

The first stop was the Oyster Shed on Wray Street. Greg waved us in from his little pontoon, boots splattered with mud. He cracked open an oyster right in front of us — I swear I’ve never tasted anything so cold and briny. Enola explained how they farm two different varieties here; she made it sound both simple and impossibly complicated at once. I tried repeating some oyster terms back to her but definitely butchered them (she laughed). We sat there eating oysters that had been pulled from the river that morning, plates balanced on our knees, sun warming our backs.

Afterwards we paddled through rows of floating baskets and packing sheds — it felt weirdly peaceful drifting between these quiet little patches of industry. Jade pointed out how you can tell which racks are ready for harvest by their color, which honestly surprised me because I’d never thought about oysters having “seasons.” You can buy more oysters at the end if you want; some people loaded up their kayaks like grocery carts. By then my arms were tired but I didn’t really care — there’s something about being out there that sticks with you for a while.

Top questions

Is this Batemans Bay oyster tasting kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, all equipment is provided and paddle practice is included before heading onto the water.

Are children allowed on this kayak tour?

Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult during the experience.

Can I buy extra oysters during the tour?

Yes, oysters are offered for sale at the Oyster Shed and you can load dozens into your kayak if you wish.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Who leads the oyster tasting session?

The tasting is led by local operators Jade, Greg, and Enola from the Oyster Shed on Wray Street.

How long does it take to reach the oyster farms by kayak?

The farms are within easy floating distance from the starting point at Batemans Bay bridge.