There is a record of two sheds being erected on the early wharf of which there are no remains but drawings prepared by the Department of Public Works survive.

[1] The wharf was built in response to the need for coastal shipping after the commencement of the Illawarra and South Coast Steam Navigation Company in 1858.

The cattle and pig yards were added in 1901, the wharf was again extended in 1903 and the buildings reconstructed with the present two storey structure in 1907.

At this time a major upgrade took place with the introduction of spring-loaded wrought iron buffers to assist in the berthing of larger vessels in the difficult north-easterly seas to which the wharf was exposed.

[1] Between 1907 and 1912 the wharf underwent major extensions in 8 definable stages including a sub-deck, jib crane, the addition of the cattle race, loading ramp and passenger shelter.

This was opposed by the local community and with support from the National Trust of Australia (NSW) who launched a $200,000 appeal for its restoration, the wharf was saved through conservation work taking place through to 1988.

The restoration project was supervised by the National Trust of Australia (NSW)'s consulting engineer, Colin Crisp.

The piers, bearers and platform were replaced in 2006 using the original spotted gum or turpentine timbers, and the roof was also renovated at this time.

[1][4] The wharf buildings were damaged in a major storm in June 2016, resulting in the closure of the cafe for six months while repairs were undertaken.

Both the wharf and the sheds include robust timber construction with a high standard of craftsmanship typical of the period.

The wharf structure is sited on a rock platform that gently slopes into the ocean providing support for the piers.

The connection between the wharf structure and the towns of Tathra, Bega and the surrounding district is important in understanding the history of the growth and development of the area.

The connection between the wharf structure and the towns of Tathra, Bega and surrounding district is important in understanding the history of the growth and development of the area.

[2][1] The place is important in demonstrating aesthetic characteristics and/or a high degree of creative or technical achievement in New South Wales.

[2][1] The place possesses uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of the cultural or natural history of New South Wales.