jervis bay territory tourism

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Jervis Bay’s famous white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters are amongst the safest and most beautiful in the world. Coastal, marine and hinterland National Parks offer fantastic bushwalking, cycling tracks, Indigenous culture, camping spots , cliff-top lookouts and maritime heritage .

Teeming with native Australian wildlife, our resident dolphins play in the bay all year round. See kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, wombats, and many rare bird and animal species in the wild. One of the best places in Australia to witness whales on their annual migrations, humpbacks and southern right whales can be seen both offshore and inside the calmer waters of the bay from June through to November.

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Green patch beach, things to do in jervis bay.

The many bay and ocean beaches, lagoons, secret coves and hidden creeks are perfect for swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, standup paddle boarding and surfing. Unspoiled coastal and country villages have local produce markets, boutique shops , art galleries and a terrific museum . The area boasts world-class cafes , restaurants , pubs , and a burgeoning music scene.

Choose from all kinds of quality accommodation from luxury to budget: couples’ retreats , camping (eco-luxury or bush), boutique B&Bs , motels , Airbnb’s , cabins and self-catering holiday homes . Jervis Bay is in the Shoalhaven, central to all the South Coast has to offer.

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Jervis Bay’s famous white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters are amongst the safest and most beautiful in the world.

There's so much to see and do, so many places to eat and stay in Jervis Bay

Coastal, marine and hinterland national parks offer fantastic bushwalking, cycling tracks, indigenous culture, camping spots, cliff-top lookouts and maritime heritage., find places to stay.

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Vivid aquamarine waters, a menagerie of wildlife and sand the colour of snow. Jervis Bay on the NSW South Coast has it all. Found in the Shoalhaven region, indulge in an assortment of water sports, join dolphin-watching cruises, explore national parks and snorkel with marine life in this coastal paradise. 

Immerse yourself in nature

Jervis Bay is home to two national parks, as well as Jervis Bay Marine Park , a haven for bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, little penguins and sea dragons. In Jervis Bay National Park and Booderee National Park , meet kangaroos and birdlife. Be sure to visit the Aboriginal-owned Booderee Botanic Gardens .

Seal Pups, Jervis Bay - Credit: Jordan Robins

Murrays Beach is a seaside jewel in Booderee National Park, perfect for relaxing, swimming and snorkelling. At the southern tip of Jervis Bay, Cape St George Lighthouse is a great vantage point to spot migrating whales. On the other side of the bay, Point Perpendicular Lighthouse also offers spectacular views. 

Blenheim Beach , Jervis Bay

Uncover coastal towns & villages 

Explore the charming seaside towns and villages scattered around Jervis Bay, from Callala Bay in the north to Huskisson , Vincentia and Hyams Beach at the southern end of the bay. Jervis Bay Village is the southern gateway to Booderee National Park.

Greenfield Beach , Vincentia

Join dolphin and whale-watching cruises from Huskisson or discover a fascinating underwater world with Dive Jervis Bay and Crest Diving. There are also a number of kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing and fishing tours available. In Vincentia, stroll along the spectacular White Sands Walk .

Plantation Point, Vincentia

Where to stay

There are many places to stay in Jervis Bay, with accommodation options ranging from seaside cottages and holiday homes to caravan parks and beachside campgrounds at Green Patch , Bristol Point and Cave Beach .

Paperbark Camp , Woollamia

Getting there

Located in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast ,  Jervis Bay is less than a three-hour drive from both Sydney and Canberra.  Make a road trip of your journey there by driving along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive .

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Jervis Bay FAQs

How far is jervis bay from sydney.

Jervis Bay is along the coast 140km from Sydney, although to drive you’ll need to travel almost 200km. The drive takes a little over 3 hours, and there are also bus and train options available.

What is Jervis Bay popular for?

Jervis Bay is popular for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, national parks and wildlife, including whale and dolphin watching. Summer is a great time to visit for a beach holiday, while from May to November whales visit the marine sanctuary. Hyams Beach , on the south side of Jervis Bay, is said to have the whitest sand in the world.

What is there to do in Jervis Bay?

Jervis Bay is known for its natural beauty, and there are many available activities to take advantage of this including:

• See some of the whitest sand in the world on the White Sands Walk
• Go diving or snorkelling to see the underwater magic of the Jervis Bay Marine Park
• Have a family beach day at the gorgeous Murrays Beach
• Taste local Shoalhaven produce on the Jervis Bay Food and Wine Experience

Explore our full list of Jervis Bay activities .

Are there sharks at Jervis Bay?

There is lots of marine life in the waters off Jervis Bay, including some kinds of shark, but the danger to humans is very small. There has never been a recorded shark attack in the Booderee National Park , which includes Jervis Bay. As an added precaution, check for local shark sightings and pay attention to shark warnings when visiting beaches.

Can you swim in Jervis Bay?

Jervis Bay is known for its white sandy beaches and is a safe place to swim. The bay is fairly sheltered so there is little swell, making it an ideal spot for a family beach holiday.

Is Jervis Bay NSW or ACT?

Geographically Jervis Bay is a part of the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast . However politically, the south head of the bay (including Jervis Bay village) is technically a part of the ACT and is administered by the ACT government. The Jervis Bay Territory was given to the ACT by NSW in 1915, to give the new territory access to the ocean. Even though it is a separate territory, there are no border controls and you might not even notice you have crossed over.

How do you get to Jervis Bay?

Jervis Bay is approximately 3 hours’ drive from both Sydney and Canberra. You can also travel by train from Sydney, and by bus from either Sydney or Canberra.

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Guide to Jervis Bay

Aboriginal name:  Booderee (pronounced Budda-ree)

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Sparkling-white sands, dazzling aqua waters and magnificent marine life combine to make Jervis Bay the epitome of paradise.

Home to some of the world’s whitest sands, the beaches of Jervis Bay are among Australia's best. Enveloping the bay is breathtaking bush, including the Aboriginal-owned Booderee National Park where native wildlife, tranquil trails and an endless collection of secluded beaches are cherished by travellers and locals alike. Beneath the gentle surface of the bay lies the Jervis Bay Marine Park. It’s here where the playful residents – including dolphins, seals, fairy penguins and whales – frolic in the waters. 

The Yuin Nation, comprised of several distinct Aboriginal language groups, are the Traditional Custodians of the land and water surrounding Jervis Bay/Booderee. Throughout the region there are many sites considered sacred to the local Yuin people, including the towering Gulaga Mountain.

You can explore some of these sacred sites and learn about their continuing significance alongside Traditional Custodians through incredible cultural experiences.

• Traditional name: Booderee (pronounced Budda-ree)
• Indigenous Peoples: Yuin Nation

Jervis Bay is easy to reach by car from either Sydney or Canberra. It's about a two-hour drive south of Sydney or a three-hour drive east of Canberra .

• Jervis Bay is 185km (115mi) from Sydney Airport (SYD), which welcomes both international and domestic arrivals
• Hire cars are available from Sydney airport terminals and various locations in town 
• From Canberra Airport (CBR) it's about 222km (138mi) 
• Hire cars are available at Canberra Airport

With its beaches sheltered from the ocean swells by high headlands, Jervis Bay is a great summer destination for all ages. From late spring to early autumn the weather is generally mild, with cool sea breezes. In autumn and winter, Booderee National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with whales passing along the ‘humpback highway’. 

• High season: Summer (December to February) and Easter (April) 
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Bizarre and beautiful bioluminescent plankton that glows blue along the shore, most commonly in spring and summer

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Home Travel Destinations New South Wales A guide to Jervis Bay

A guide to Jervis Bay

The undoubted crown jewel of the Shoalhaven region is Jervis Bay – a big bite of shimmering sea that heaves with dolphins, whales and seals. It is bookended in the north by the sheer limestone cliffs of Point Perpendicular and in the south by eucalypt-encrusted Bherwerre Peninsula. Dotted around its shoreline are the popular holiday hamlets of Huskisson, Vincentia and Hyams Beach, behind which lie quieter lush valleys and sparkling rivers. To the west rises the spectacular Illawarra escarpment, a dramatic 30-million-year-old range punctuated with lookouts and hiking tracks, as well as birding, swimming and picnic spots. 

Despite the region’s undoubted popularity and its proximity to Sydney and Canberra, you don’t have to venture far beyond the famous dazzling white sands of Hyams Beach (and many others) to escape the crowds and find yourself at one with nature.

“Jump in,” Terry Davies says as snowy cumulus clouds, huddled on the horizon, glow with the sun’s first rays. “Dawn is the absolute best time of day to set out – the bay’s like a puddle it’s so calm, and you often have it all to yourself, unless the dolphins and turtles come to play.” I slip into my sea kayak and push off from the white sand of Iluka Beach in Booderee National Park, and now we’re gliding across the glistening golden pond, skirting the scalloped southern shore of Jervis Bay. 

“I’ve kayaked all around the world,” Terry says, “but there’s nowhere quite like the bay. I’ve had whales slip beneath my kayak here, pop up beside me, look me straight in the eye.”

We are heading to Bowen Island, a sandstone bump lying 250m off the tip of Bherwerre Peninsula at the entrance to Jervis Bay. It’s an easy paddle, and as the sun climbs, the gilded bay morphs to a mesmerising turquoise. The Shoalhaven is credited with having some of the whitest sand in the world. Hyams holds the local title, but there are 16 equally beautiful white-sand beaches around the bay. As we dip our paddles into the drink, I marvel at the colours laid out before me. 

“Because the sand’s so white, the water takes on this almost unreal blue hue,” Terry says. “It’s like being in the Mediterranean, on a Greek island, but then you look at the shore and see those distinctive gum trees and you know you’re home.”

The eucalypts he’s referring to are wild and tangled, and run almost to the water’s edge, halted only by the flash-bright strip of beach. It’s a vista that’s almost too beautiful to bear and when a large roo and his mob of three move through the understorey, the reverie is complete. We pass Hole in the Wall, a craggy outcrop of sandstone with striations that vary in colour from white to ochre, before heading out into open water towards Bowen Island. It’s choppy going, the surge of water pushing in from the open ocean colliding with the wind-whipped offshore waves of the bay. My kayak bobs and weaves to their beat. 

Finally we stop in the lee of the island and scan for signs of wildlife. Despite being just 1km long by 500m wide, and home to roughly 10,000 penguins, the island hides its inhabitants well in a thick covering of scrubby natives, and, sadly, we see none. But as Terry points out, they’re likely all at sea, fishing, and will return to their nests on dusk where they’ll bunker down for the night before hitting the waves again at dawn.

A protected seabird habitat, Bowen Island has a no-public-access policy, so we paddle back towards the southern arc of the mainland and into the still water of Murrays Beach, another dazzling Booderee NP swimming spot, where according to Terry, you can often see little penguins dipping and diving throughout the day. 

As he speaks I catch a glimpse of something in the water a few metres ahead and, thinking it’s a penguin, marvel at its timing. I push my kayak closer until I’m all but alongside the creature before realising it’s too round and too large. 

“It’s a greenie,” Terry says, identifying the green sea turtle just before it dives and disappears from view. “That’s a pretty special sighting. You can’t usually sneak up on these guys. They’re gone before you get anywhere near them.” The waters here are protected within Jervis Bay Marine Park, which was established in 1998 and spans more than 100km of coastline from Kinghorn Point in the north to Sussex Inlet in the south. 

Jervis Bay is also home to a resident population of 100 or so bottlenose dolphins, some of which I meet later in the week while aboard Port Venture , a custom catamaran whose bow wave the charismatic cetaceans love to ride. 

The character of Jervis Bay’s water is largely attributed to the mingling of warm water from the East Australian Current and cooler water from Bass Strait. With periodic upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich waters from the nearby Continental Shelf, these combined currents flow clockwise around the bay, completely flushing it out every 24 days or so.

Throughout the park, landforms provide a variety of habitats, including deep-water cliffs, exposed and sheltered sandy beaches, rock platforms, rocky reefs, soft-sediment bottoms, kelp forests, small estuaries, seagrass meadows, mangroves and open ocean. Because of this diversity – more than 230 algae, hundreds of invertebrate, at least 210 reef fish species, including sharks and rays, many marine mammals, birds and reptiles, with several threatened species – the region teems with life, and from June to November humpback whales add to the spectacle.

I’ve joined Pete Ellis of Dive Jervis Bay to swim with humpbacks. We’d spotted a pod breaching and tail slapping, and tracked their progress before manoeuvring our boat into position. “With luck, they’ll swim right by,” Pete says as we gear up – wetsuit, weight belt, fins, snorkel, face mask. And now I’m lying on the surface of the water, waiting. I think I hear something – a series of clicks and hums – and then I see it. Out of the blue comes a shadow, the size of a bus and moving with effortless grace towards me. And as it does the shadow becomes more clearly defined. It’s a mother and, wait…nestled into her undercarriage is her calf! Within seconds they’re mere metres away. I can see the deep striations in her skin and the barnacles fused to her side. 

I’m mesmerised – I forget to breathe, I forget everything. Then she dives, pulling her little darling along in the slipstream. And now they’re gone, having passed by with barely an acknowledgement…save maybe for a wink of her beautiful eye and a wave of her elegant tail.

The Shoalhaven region abounds in parks and reserves where true wilderness reigns, within cooee of Sydney and Canberra.

A sanctuary for all kinds of wildlife, including swamp wallabies, gliders and long-nosed potoroos, Morton NP is also a birdwatcher’s paradise – think satin bowerbirds, green catbirds and lyrebirds. You may also see an eastern ground parrot, classified as vulnerable, in the heath. The park’s geological features are equally captivating, from soaring cliff faces to carved plateaus with deep gorges. As the traditional country of the Yuin people, several hundred Aboriginal sites have been recorded here. The park’s imposing mountains, particularly Pigeon House (Didthul or Balgan), are significant in Aboriginal mythology, as is Fitzroy Falls.

With lake, ocean and forest habitats, Conjola NP is a mecca for lovers of the outdoors and nature – you can bushwalk, swim, canoe, fish and mountain-bike. Open forests and scrubland are home to plentiful wildlife. Look for eastern grey kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, possums and gliders, as well as cockatoos and parrots, black swans and herons. Three adjacent lakes – Conjola, Berringer and Swan – are significant habitat for many birds, such as pied oystercatchers.

Booderee NP

Be sure to experience Booderee NP – a tranquil, nurturing place rich in living culture and natural beauty. It’s jointly managed by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal community and Parks Australia, and is a significant place for Indigenous people, having sustained its inhabitants for hundreds of generations. Highlights include Aboriginal sites, the derelict Cape St George Lighthouse, Booderee Botanic Gardens and white-sand beaches. You can fish, swim, surf, sail, kayak, whale-watch and camp.

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10 of the best things to do in Jervis Bay

Carla Grossetti

Sub-Editor & Journalist

04 July 2023

Discover more about Jervis Bay by exploring it via land and sea.

To explore all 102 square kilometres of the bay and village, which is juxtaposed with aquamarine waters and emerald-green forest, you will need to book an extended stay. Until then, here are the top 10 things to do in Jervis Bay , which you can check off your list, one by one.

Go to Jervis Bay Maritime Museum & Gallery

Historic vessels such as the Lady Denman ferry, a collection of maritime artefacts, a range of nautical equipment and navigational instruments, photographs, paintings and drawings are on show at the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum & Gallery . The Huskisson museum is located in a beautiful bush setting on Wandi Wandian Country that includes a mangrove boardwalk that is an absolute must. You will see a regular cast of creatures – such as native birds and crabs – while plodding along the 1.4-kilometre-long path.

Tour the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum & Gallery.

Explore Cave Beach in Booderee National Park

Booderee National Park is co-managed by the local Wreck Bay Community and Parks Australia and Cave Beach is considered one of its trophies. The popular surfing spot takes its name from the stunning rock formations shaped by nature that run alongside the beach, which is surrounded by Booderee bushland.

Cave Beach is considered a local trophy.

Visit Booderee National Park Botanic Gardens

Learn about native Australian ingredients, the medicinal use of plants, the changing of the seasons and nature’s indicators – subtle changes that signal certain foods are ready to be foraged – during a visit to Booderee National Park Botanic Gardens . Download the Botanic Gardens podcast to learn more about the only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in Australia ahead of your visit and listen to it as you follow the 3.7-kilometre loop walk around the park.

Learn about native Australia in Booderee National Park Botanic Gardens.

Spot whales from Point Perpendicular Lighthouse

If you’re going to spot whales, a good place to do so is at the top of Point Perpendicular, where you will find a pretty lighthouse painted white with a navy-blue trim. While you can’t climb the worn steps of the lighthouse – it has been decommissioned – you can head to the lookout located 90 metres above sea level, which is the perfect vantage point for spotting migrating whales as they make their way south.

Note: it’s only open on weekends and holidays.

Spot whales from Point Perpendicular Lighthouse.

Wander along White Sands and Scribbly Gum Walk

The wilderness is always close in Jervis Bay. Set off at daybreak along the White Sands Walk from Greenfield Beach picnic area and along the coast where the only other people you tend to see are fisherman and surfers. Return via the scribbly gum forest track before stopping for a swim at Greenfield Beach where you can spot giant sea birds, dolphins and – fingers crossed – echidnas. You could also continue your walk to Chinamans and Hyams beaches.

Set off at daybreak along the White Sands Walk.

Hire a kayak and paddle through the pristine seas

There’s an entire Dulux colour chart of blues on show when you’re paddling through the pristine Jervis Bay Waterway. Hire a sea kayak from Jervis Bay Kayak and Paddlesports in Huskisson and launch it at the beach across the road for a gentle cruise around the bay, where you will find 16 white-sand beaches to explore. Bring a pair of binoculars just in case you spot dolphins or whales during the migration season.

Hire a sea kayak from Jervis Bay Kayak and Paddlesports.

Visit Murray’s Beach for sunrise snaps

A visit to Murray’s Beach is a must regardless of the time of day. But arrive here in time for the sun to rise and you will find plenty of inspiration for Instagram. The best thing about making it to Murray’s at dawn is you might also catch a glimpse of the colony of fairy penguins that dwell on nearby Bowen Island. Set off along the Munyunga Waraga Dhugan (loop walk) and follow the trail to Governor Head Lookout, where you can read about the local penguin population.

A visit to Murray’s Beach is a must.

Snorkel in the waters off Jervis Bay

It’s when you’re in the waterways off Jervis Bay Marine Park that you really begin to get a sense of place. As well as seeing all manner of marine creatures gliding past, you can rise to the surface, remove your goggles and take in the vast sweep of land and sand stretched out before you. Not far from the beach, just offshore, you will find rocky reefs, kelp beds, sand flats as well as smooth black rays, giant cuttlefish and fur seals.

See all manner of marine creatures gliding past.

Enjoy a self-drive brewery tour

The Australian craft beer scene is booming, and it’s a prerequisite for pubs in close proximity to local breweries to serve the artisan ales. Get a taste of a few sought-after local selections on the NSW Shoalhaven Coast by following a self-guided trail that will take you from Flamin’ Galah Brewing Company to Jervis Bay Brewing Co. where hop heads can pick up a few different styles of ale and lager to take home.

Beer in the sun at Flamin’ Galah.

See a movie at Huskisson Pictures

The cute-as-a-button historic Huskisson Pictures building on the shores of Jervis Bay was built in 1913 as a community hall and was also used as a church, school, library and concert venue before it began screening movies in the early 1950s. Thankfully, when the movie theatre was renovated in 1990, there was a deliberate effort to keep the external façade of the dinky little cinema , which adds to the postcard-pretty charm of Jervis Bay.

The historic Huskisson pictures.

For more great travel tips and itineraries read our Ultimate guide to Jervis Bay holidays here.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Jervis Bay

Things to do in jervis bay, explore popular experiences, tours in and around jervis bay.

Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise

Jervis Bay & Dolphins Cruise - One Day Tour

Half-Day Jervis Bay Sea Kayak Tour

Jervis Bay Beach Stargazing Tour with an Astrophysicist

Jervis Bay Passage Tour

Jervis Bay Boom Netting and Dolphins Tour

Jervis Bay Whale Watching Tour

Culburra Beach FAT bike tour

Fishermans Paradise Eco-walk

Conjola Tours

Cruises, sailing & water tours.

Top Attractions in Jervis Bay

Other Top Attractions around Jervis Bay

Tours & Sightseeing

Outdoor Activities

What travellers are saying.

• Hyams Beach
• Booderee National Park
• Jervis Bay National Park
• Murrays Beach
• White Sands Walk
• Moona Moona Creek
• Woebegone Freedive
• Husky Ferry
• Jervis Bay Wild Cruises
• Dolphin Watch Cruises

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NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

Jervis Bay National Park

Open, check  current alerts  

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Jervis Bay National Park.

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions.

Jervis Bay National Park is made up of several sections, so there are multiple entry points.

From Nowra:

• Take the Princes Highway southwards, then:
• For Lake Wollumboola, turn into Kalandar Street, Nowra, and follow the signs for Culburra Beach
• For Coonemia creek, Red Point or Hammerhead Point, take Forest Road off the highway, then follow the signs towards Currarong
• For the southern part of the park, take the Jervis Bay Road turn off and follow the signs to Huskisson (for Moona Moona creek) or to Vincentia (for Greenfield Beach and Hyams Beach)

Park entry points

• Currawong Road access See on map
• Greenfield Beach access See on map
• Bull Hole lookout See on map
• Coonemia Creek See on map
• Red Point picnic area See on map

Road quality

• Sealed roads

Vehicle access

• 2WD vehicles

Check out the Bicycle information for NSW website for more information.

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you Jervis Bay National Park. Here are some of the highlights.

Take advantage of spring weather and head to Hyams Beach. You can pick up some fish and chips from the nearby Hyams Beach Café to enjoy on the white sands of this iconic south coast beach. If you're feeling energetic after lunch, walk the easy Hyams Beach trail.

Swim, surf, snorkel and dive your way through the summer school holidays in this beach paradise.

Humpback whales can be spotted migrating northwards in the winter months. Keep an eye out for southern right whales and dolphins too. They're often seen around the park's coastline.

Weather, temperature and rainfall

Summer temperature.

17°C and 24°C

Highest recorded

Winter temperature.

10°C and 17°C

Lowest recorded

Wettest month.

April, May and June

Driest month

The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day.

• Red Point picnic area
• Greenfield Beach picnic area
• Hammerhead Point picnic area

Picnic tables

Barbecue facilities.

• Coonemia Creek

Drinking water

• Hare Point walking track

Maps and downloads

• Jervis Bay National Park factsheet
• Jervis Bay National Park map (3.5MB pdf)
• South Coast Highlands PDF Brochure (5.1MB pdf)
• South Coast Highlights PDF Brochure (2.7MB pdf)

Safety messages

However you discover NSW national parks and reserves, we want you to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Our park and reserve systems contrast greatly so you need to be aware of the risks and take responsibility for your own safety and the safety of those in your care .

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS.  Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

NSW national parks are no smoking areas .

• in the South Coast region

Jervis Bay National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

• Nowra office 02 4428 6300 Contact hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.
• 104 Flatrock Road, Mundamia NSW 2540
• Email: [email protected]
• Go whale watching
• Marine Park Authority website
• NSW Fisheries website
• Visit NSW - Jervis Bay

Nearby towns

Nowra (21 km).

Nowra is a historic city and the commercial heart of the Shoalhaven . It's on the Shoalhaven River close to beaches and national parks.

www.visitnsw.com

Ulladulla (56 km)

Ulladulla is close to several wonderful national parks. Morton National Park , to the west, is home to Pigeon House Mountain, a local landmark which is a popular climb. Murramarang National Park , between Ulladulla and Batemans Bay, has beautiful coastal walks, beaches and camping sites.   

Kiama (64 km)

A picturesque beachside town on the NSW South Coast, Kiama boasts several local and nearby attractions including the famous Kiama Blowhole, Jamberoo Action Park and Illawarra Fly. Enjoy whale watching during migration season while walking along Kiama Coast Walk, and visit the nearby Minnamurra Rainforest Centre in Budderoo National Park.

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Top Things to Do in Stunning Jervis Bay, NSW

by Lisa Bull | Last updated Jan 27, 2023 | Shoalhaven

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.

If you’re looking for a fun Australian beach holiday with access to cafes, restaurants and activities, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Jervis Bay NSW.

Jervis Bay attractions include stunning white beaches, such as famous Hyams Beach, camping in Booderee National Park, dolphin cruises and the steep Point Perpendicular cliffs.

I first passed through Jervis Bay during my Melbourne to Sydney road trip , after a stop in Batemans Bay , but have returned multiple times. I genuinely believe it’s one of the most beautiful parts of Australia!

Click on the links below to skip straight to a topic, or keep reading to discover the best activities in Jervis Bay!

How to Get to Jervis Bay

Jervis bay beaches.

• Huskisson Village
• Currambene Creek
• Vincentia Shopping Village

St George’s Basin

Booderee national park, beecroft peninsula, jervis bay accommodation.

So, where is Jervis Bay exactly? You’ll find it on the south coast of New South Wales, a three-hour drive south of Sydney. If you’re doing a Melbourne to Sydney road trip, make sure you pencil it in.

To get to Jervis Bay from Sydney, it’s an easy 198km drive down the Princes Highway. For a scenic detour, turn left down Lawrence Hargrave Drive just after Helensburgh and pass by the pretty seaside villages of north Wollongong, such as Stanwell Park, Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli. For more information, take a look at my blog post on the beautiful Grand Pacific Drive via Sea Cliff Bridge .

If you decide to stay on the highway, you can still stop at Sublime Point Lookout or a couple of other places you’ll see signed to enjoy the elevated view from the top of the Illawarra escarpment. Kiama also makes a pretty stop-off point. There’s plenty of parking around the blowhole.

Alternatively, head west from Sydney onto the M31 and take the inland route through the Southern Highlands . You can stop at quaint little historical towns such as Mittagong and Bowral as well as Fitzroy Falls. You’ll then pass through Kangaroo Valley before winding back down to join the highway just before Nowra.

Jervis Bay NSW is  best known for its endless run of pristine white beaches and amazingly clear and calm water. The most famous of them, Hyams Beach, is actually just one of many, and not even the best in my opinion! Chinamans Beach just north of it is absolutely stunning too!

There are so many amazing beaches in this area that I’ve written a separate blog post on them, which includes maps, facilities and details of the White Sands Walk. You’ve also got more lovely beaches inside Booderee National Park, such as Murrays Beach and Greenpatch.

Jervis Bay Beaches Guide: Huskisson to Hyams

Here are a couple of pictures to whet your appetite. There isn’t normally a huge fire in the background, but there was a bushfire in Booderee National Park when I visited during the summer and I thought it looked quite dramatic! Basically the whole bay is lined with beaches, so head to the water anywhere between Huskisson down to Hyams Beach and you’ll be rewarded.

If you do head down to the Hyams Beach area and fancy lunch or a coffee, try the Hyams Beach Store and Café  and enjoy its cool, white seaside look and chill-out music.

Huskisson Village – Eating, Drinking & Shopping in Jervis Bay

Owen Street in Huskisson is where you’ll find the main strip of shops, cafes and restaurants in Jervis Bay. There’s an art gallery, some lovely boutique clothing and homeware stores with a beachy style, and places to book whale-watching and dolphin cruises. It’s a small street, so you’ll find your way around.

If you’re looking for things to do in Jervis Bay after dark, head to the big pub on the corner, The Huskisson Hotel , which has indoor and outdoor seating. If you visit during the daytime there’s a beautiful view across the Currambene Creek out the back.

Farther along the creek you’ll also spot the pretty Portside Café right on the waterfront, run by Jervis Bay Wild who offer dolphin and whale-watching eco-tours .

There’s even a vintage cinema, Huskisson Pictures , just round the corner on Sydney Street. If you’re stuck for things to do in Jervis Bay in the rain, this can go on your list!

Currambene Creek & Voyager Park in Huskisson

Curving around the top of Huskisson is the pretty Currambene Creek. Make sure you go for a stroll around Voyager Park behind The Huskisson Hotel to appreciate the view. It also has a children’s playground and a sea pool (this was empty when I visited, but I would imagine gets filled up in summertime)!

If you look along the creek from Voyager Park, you’ll see it’s backed by houses, so you can’t just walk along the water’s edge. I did a bit of exploring and discovered a car park at Woollamia Boat Ramp at the end of Frank Lewis Way. From here you can stroll right along the waterfront; I even spotted pelicans and herons!

Vincentia Shopping Village in Jervis Bay

Vincentia lies between Huskisson and Hyams Beach, and is described as the main shopping area of Jervis Bay on one of the tourism websites. When I visited Jervis Bay last year I didn’t realise Huskisson existed after reading that!

Vincentia Village definitely seems like more of a locals’ shopping area -it’s just a little precinct – while Huskisson is aimed at tourists with its waterside cafes and pretty, beach-style boutiques.

If you’re heading to the beaches in Vincentia though, or doing the full White Sands Walk from Plantation Point down to Hyams Beach, Vincentia Village is really close to the bottom of Collingwood Beach (on Burton St off the roundabout) and has a few cafes and a bakery if you need a refreshment stop. There’s also a Coles supermarket and a petrol station; though the petrol was much cheaper along the highway in South Nowra if you’re heading back up to Sydney.

If you head inland from the roundabout down The Wool Road, and then right onto Naval College Road, you’ll find Vincentia Marketplace, a big, modern indoor shopping centre with a Woolworths, Aldi and Caltex petrol station.

St George’s Basin is the huge, coastal lake behind Booderee National Park, popular for boating, fishing and kayaking. To the north of the water, there’s also a town called St George’s Basin, home to  The Pelican Waterside Café and Restaurant .

Since I stayed in an Airbnb at nearby Sanctuary Point, I popped over to the eastern edge of the basin a couple of times to watch the sunset, which was absolutely beautiful.

Despite being evacuated by the police because of the bushfire, I did get to explore some parts of Booderee National Park! I’ve also returned a couple of times on visits since then.

Booderee is home to a choice of beautiful beaches, such as Murrays Beach and Green Patch, as well as three campsites, scenic hikes and the Booderee Botanic Gardens. For detailed information, read this blog post:

Booderee National Park Guide: Beaches, Hiking & Camping

The land curving around the northern side of Jervis Bay is the Beecroft Peninsula. You’ll find lots of attractions there, such as stunning at Honeymoon Bay which you can camp at.

There’s also Point Perpendicular Lighthouse, Abrahams Bosom Reserve and Callalla Bay on the way there. For more information, check out this blog post:

Beecroft Peninsula: Scenic Day Trip in Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is a major holiday destination for both tourists and locals, so it has a wealth of accommodation available. If you’re backpacking, there’s unfortunately no hostel, but there are lots of campsites and caravan parks if you’re well equipped.

If you’re on a road trip in Australia, check out my guide on cheap accommodation in Australia as it lists lots of alternative options to hostels.

Here are some of your choices of accommodation in Jervis Bay:

Jervis Bay Camping Grounds

There are three campgrounds in Booderee National Park: Green Patch, Bristol Point and Cave Beach. You can read about the facilities and make bookings on the Australian Government Parks Australia website .

Just note that Jervis Bay national park camping grounds are so in demand that during the summer school holidays (December/January) you have to book months in advance via a ballot system.

There’s also a campsite at Honeymoon Bay on the Beecroft Peninsula, available most weekends and school holidays. The area is sometimes closed for military training though so check in advance.

Jervis Bay Caravan Parks

There are also quite a few holiday parks in Jervis Bay if you want a campsite with more facilities, or to stay in cabins instead.

Huskisson Beach Holiday Haven : This beachfront holiday park behind Huskisson Beach offers a choice of self-contained holiday cabins, shaded camping spots and powered sites with ensuites. Site facilities include a swimming pool, children’s playground, tennis court, barbecues and a camp kitchen.

Click here to check availability.

White Sands Holiday Haven : You can book cabins as well as sites for campers, caravans and rvs at this second holiday park behind Huskisson beach. Site facilities include barbecues, a camp kitchen and summer holiday activities.

Jervis Bay Holiday Park : Located in Huskisson right on the banks of Currambene Creek, Jervis Bay Holiday Park boasts a private boat ramp and floating pontoon. Amenities include a swimming pool, barbecues, camp kitchen, playground, free Wi-Fi, pedal cart hire, as well as kayak and sup hire.

You can choose from waterfront villas, cabins, glamping tents and both powered and unpowered camping sites.

Jervis Bay Holiday Rentals & Hotels/Motels

Browse Jervis Bay accommodation options on Hotels Combined to find the best deal. They compare prices across all the major booking agents.

You won’t miss all the holiday rentals as you walk around Jervis Bay, as they have signs out the front. It’s a wonder there are actually any residents living there during the off-season!

The cutest ones I’ve seen are these pastel-coloured, couples-only cottages behind Hyams Beach, called the Hyams Beach Seaside Cottages !

I hope you enjoyed reading my guide and now have lots of ideas for things to do in Jervis Bay. If you’re continuing on a road trip to Sydney, make sure you check out my recommended Kiama attractions and the top things to do in Wollongong !

For more ideas, read through my list of top weekend trips from Sydney , or browse my New South Wales travel guides . Enjoy your break!

Lisa Bull, founder of Dreaming of Down Under, has been living in Australia as a British expat since 2015. After travelling to every state and territory in Australia and living in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, Lisa knows from first-hand experience the best destinations to visit in Australia and the best budget travel tips. Her guides on this blog have been read by over 700k readers and helped thousands of people achieve their dream of living in or travelling Australia.

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Hi, I'm Lisa, a British expat living in Sydney. I've travelled almost the whole Australian coastline and love sharing detailed travel and migration guides to inspire other adventurous souls to travel or move to Australia. Read more about me!

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The ultimate guide to Jervis Bay

Three hours south of Sydney is a little patch of paradise called Jervis Bay, where the sands are blindingly white

The obvious choice of activity in Jervis Bay is to take advantage of the great outdoors. The spectacular bay plays host to over 90km of natural beaches and a raft of water-based pursuits – from dolphin and whale spotting, to chartered sailing, kayaking from what is claimed to be the world’s whitest sand – Hyams Beach.

Looking to stay in Jervis Bay? Check out the best Airbnbs here . 

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Where to stay in Jervis Bay

Huskisson is a stunning town on the shores of the Jervis Bay Marine Park.  It’s always busy during tourist season, with the cafes, shops and galleries full of tourists. If you ’re looking for  proximity to restaurants and shops, we recommend booking a stay in Huskisson. 

Looking to stay near Huskisson? You can check out some local Airbnbs right here .

The next town south from Huskisson is Vincentia, which is a few minutes drive away. If you 're looking for a quieter  place to stay away from the buzz of tourists, it 's well worth it . Vincentia has plenty of beautiful beaches including the dog friendly Nelsons Beach. 

Looking to stay in Vincentia? You can check out some local Airbnbs right here .

Hyams Beach

Hyams Beach is a short drive south of Vincentia and has plenty to offer. The now  residential area can get super popular from June to August, so getting a parking spot can feel like quite the competition between eager tourists. But this just goes to show how gorgeous the beach truly is.

Looking to stay near Hyams Beach? You can check out some local Airbnbs right here .

St Georges Basin

St Georges basin is only a short drive from Huskisson and Vincentia,  nestled right on the northern shore and near Sanctuary Point. If fishing, boating and swimming are the top activities in your trip itinerary, this  is the perfect place for you. 

Looking to stay near  St Georges basin? You can check out some local Airbnbs right here .

Worrowing Eco Resort

Why break city limits for a weekend only to check into a ruthlessly urbanised hotel? To make the most of Jervis Bay’s gentle and pristine beaches, crystal water coves, and the verdant Royal National Park that hems its coast set up camp at Worrowing Eco Resort. This rustic weekender is the perfect tonic for peace-seeking Sydneysiders. Within the 105 hectares of the Worrowing estate are a handful of purpose built, roomy yet unobtrusive eco cabins.

Designed in the bushman’s hut style and deceptively simple from the outside, the cabins are made entirely from reclaimed building materials, but finished inside with cool, contemporary styling – earthy tones complement the fragrant timber used throughout. Each self-catered cabin comes with a kitchen, TV/DVD, a huge soak tub and very useful gas barbie.

Worrowing Resort is nestled in secluded bushland bordering the Boderee National Park. The resort was designed for the eco-conscious traveller who looks for sustainability and affordability in their tourism experiences. As a buzz phrase, “Eco Resort” gets bandied about a lot these days but Worrowing stays true to the term. Here there’s a seamless synergy of home comforts and nature. One end of the cabin is all glass, evoking a sense of camping, as you peer out from behind the transparent flysheet. Outside the glass is an expansive lumber deck, ideal for communing with the local flora and fauna.

There, to a soundtrack of kookaburra calls and cicada choruses and with a cold drink in hand, you can while away a warm weekend without even leaving the comfort of the cabin. Smack bang in the middle of the bush your only neighbours are the countless families that skip playfully about on your lawn.

Neighbours? That’s right. Eastern Grey Kangaroos and shy Red Neck Wallabies reside in the Worrowing meadows all year round and they seem more than happy to share their idyllic abode, which seems miles from anywhere but, in reality, is only minutes to the sea and the heartbeat of the Jervis Bay area – Huskisson.

Things to do in Jervis Bay

Dolphin watch cruises.

• Things to do

For dolphin and whale watching, we recommend going with Dolphin Watch Cruises.  You can book online right here .

Jervis Bay Kayaks

For a more wallet-friendly way to explore the water, the best kayak hire service comes from Jervis Bay Kayaks, where tuition, guided tours and rentals are all available from the enthusiastic staff.

Booderee National Park

At the south end on the Bay lies the expansive Booderee National Park – a haven of bushwalks, dune lakes, inquisitive wildlife and stunning secluded beaches. If, like Time Out, you enjoy less company on the beach – go for Murray’s Beach at the very southern tip of Jervis Bay’s crescent, or Steamers Beach on the south side of the park. Both beaches have basic facilities less than a ten minute stroll away. However, we recommend you use those ten minutes more wisely; get back in touch with nature – and pee in the sea (go on, we know you do it when you’re swimming at the city beaches).

Huskisson Pictures

If you happen upon Jervis Bay on one of those (ever more present) days of the year when the heavens have opened, the clouds have corralled, and the sound of the rain on your cabin’s tin roof is sending your urbane lugs batty, head down to Huskisson Pictures. This quaint 1913 cinema harks back to the golden age of movies – with its rich burgundy Art Deco interior, the cosy 170-seat theatre heavy with the smell of fresh butter popcorn. With four screenings a day, the old picture house screens current releases with an old fashioned smile.

Bars and restaurants in Jervis Bay

Hyams beach general store.

• Restaurants
• price 1 of 4

Hyams Beach General Store is an unexpectedly impressive café/restaurant adjacent to the famous blindingly white beach.

Husky Bakery and Cafe

For a decent lunch, pop into Husky Bakery and Café ­– we suggest you tuck into a Husky steak pie ($4.50) – they’re packed full of huge tender chucks of intact steak wrapped in a pastry that’d make Harry blush. On your way out pick up a slab of signature apple crumble to heat up and demolish back home in the cabin.

Seagrass Brasserie

As far as seaside dining goes, we dub Seagrass Jervis Bay’s finest; a chic Huskisson restaurant, delivering small but perfectly formed contemporary seafood in a pretty setting under awnings by the sands.  Time Out  left fat and happy after a light and fragrant John Dory, and for those who can’t see past the red flesh– the rib eye steak is a big and bloody godsend for avowed carnivores!

For nightlife that doesn’t involve conversations with insects, marsupials and jeering birdlife, head to Jervis Bay’s most local ‘local’ – the Husky Pub. A prime setting for refreshments rather than repast, the Husky boasts live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. The Enmore it ain’t, but perched on the shores of one of Australia’s most beautiful bays, you’ll forgive the minor aural imperfections when you’re soaking up sundowners on a warm summer evening. The Husky is less than 50m from the shore, and boasts a sea-facing, kid-friendly beer garden with well kept greens running down to the water.

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The 21 BEST Things to Do in Jervis Bay, NSW [2024]

• Last Updated: January 12, 2024

No trip to the Shoalhaven is complete without checking out all these incredible things to do in Jervis Bay!

Jervis Bay is a stunning corner of New South Wales that, surprisingly, not many people outside of the state know about. 

You can get to Jervis Bay by driving 2.5-hour drive south of Sydney, and it is full of forest, rivers, campgrounds, villages, white sand beaches, and other great attractions. 

Hyams Beach, which is known to have some of the whitest sand in the world, is probably the most famous of the best Jervis Bay attractions.

But there are so many more incredible things to do in Jervis Bay in addition to strolling along the soft, gleaming white sand of Hyams Beach. 

From hiking trails and bush walks to charming little beach towns and restaurants, to some of the most gorgeous beaches you’ve ever seen, Jervis Bay has plenty of entertainment for travellers and locals alike. 

Despite how visually incredible the place is, it never feels too touristy or overcrowded (unless you’re here during school holidays of course).

It’s all too easy to find your own private patch of white sand beaches in Jervis Bay, or seek out an isolated swimming spot. 

And with the recent bushfires that devastated so much of this part of Australia, if you choose to visit you are directly contributing to the local community and helping rebuild what was lost for some many people, businesses and livelihoods.

So if you are looking for a gorgeous weekend getaway in Australia, Jervis Bay is the perfect place. 

READ MORE: Check out our Australia Travel Guide when planning your trip to Australia!

Table of Contents

1) Complete the White Sands Walk and see the Best Jervis Bay Beaches

2) relax on hyams beach, 3) grab a delicious beer at jervis bay brewing co, 4) go whale watching, 5) head out for some camping, 6) wander through huskisson, 7) check out the jervis bay maritime museum, 8) go stand up paddle boarding, 9) go kayaking, 10) visit booderee national park, 11) check out the booderee botanic gardens, 12) book a dolphin-sightseeing cruise, 13) hike to gosangs tunnel, 14) rent a bicycle, 15) venture to the point perpendicular lighthouse, 16) go snorkelling, 17) dive with seals or whales, 18) bird-watch, 19) stroll along the mangrove boardwalk, 20) learn about aboriginal culture in booderee national park, 21) watch the sunset , the best motel in jervis bay – jervis bay motel, best budget accommodation for couples – wildwood homestay, best mid-range hotel in jervis bay- the edgewater bed and breakfast, best luxury accommodation in jervis bay – by the sea on culburra beach on the beach, the absolute best in town – wandering woodfire oven, world famous fish n chips huskisson, the best things to do in jervis bay.

The activities in Jervis Bay, Australia, are mainly centred around two areas – Huskisson and Hyams Beach, which are in the centre of the bay,

From there, the land curves to create an upper peninsula, where you’ll find Currarong, and a lower peninsula, where you’ll find Booderee National Park. 

Within these three general areas, there are lots of opportunities for fun, relaxation, and adventure. 

So here is our list of the best things to do in Jervis Bay!

No list of the best Jervis Bay attractions would be complete without the White Sands Walk. If you are dying to see all the most beautiful beaches in Jervis Bay area, this coastal walk is the jackpot. 

The walking trail snakes along the coast, weaving in and out of the forest. You’ll pass a number of breathtaking beaches, including Greenfield Beach and Chinamans Beach . 

Each and every beach on the White Sands Walk has velvety white sand and clear turquoise water. 

Because the bay is enclosed, the waves never get too big so the beaches are perfect for swimming, relaxing, and playing with children. 

There are many other amazing beaches in Jervis Bay outside the White Sands Walk, including Murrays Beach, Caves Beach, Nelsons Beach, and Honeymoon Bay Beach.

But to see the best Jervis Bay beaches all in one area, the White Sands Walk is the thing to do.

The walk is about 1.5 hours return with no stops. Park at Greenfield Beach Picnic Area, and follow the signs for the White Sands Walk.  Visit the website for more info!

The last beach along the White Sands Walk is Hyams Beach, the world’s whitest sand beach. 

You already know that you can find white sand here, and that’s pretty much the only selling point as there aren’t too many other things to do in Hyams Beach besides swimming and taking photos.

But don’t underestimate how beautiful Hyams Beach really is! It’s pretty touristy but it is actually as stunning as people say. 

If you’re visiting Jervis Bay, you can’t skip Hyams Beach. The white sand stretches on for 2.8 kilometres so you can easily escape the crowds and score a little slice of paradise all to yourself. 

If you’ve built up a thirst after checking out what to do in Huskisson, Hyams Beach and the rest of the bay, head down to the region’s newest and most delicious drinking hole, Jervis Bay Brewing Co .

Run by a couple of passionate locals, the guys here whip up some of the tastiest brews on the South Coast, and their beer garden is a fantastic place to spend a sunny afternoon.

Seriously, try their XPA or stout and you’ll never look at beer the same way again.

The venue is buzzing, the tunes are great, and to add to the atmosphere they even have local food vans regularly set up in the garden to serve up delicious meals.

In case you needed more of a reason to stop by, when the bushfires ravaged the area at the beginning of 2020, the team at Jervis Bay Brewing Co partnered up with other breweries in the area to create a limited-edition pale ale, with proceeds going to bushfire reliefs.

The whole team is incredibly community-focused, and in the short time they’ve been open they have quickly become the best place in town to grab a drink for locals and tourists alike.

Seriously, get down here and be part of something special!

Check out our video interview with Paul Walker, one of the co-founders of Jervis Bay Brewing Co.

If you’re keen to see some whales but don’t feel like diving into some cold water to swim alongside them, you can book a whale watching cruise!

Jervis Bay is one of the best places in all of Australia to see humpback whales migrating between Antarctica and the warmer seas in the north, and from May to November they come right past, and sometimes into, the bay.

There are a number of whale watching companies to go with, but we personally recommend Dolphin Watch Cruises .

They are the longest operating cruise company in Jervis Bay, and work closely with the marine park to monitor and protect the wildlife here.

We went on their 2-hour whale-watching cruise and were lucky enough to see a whole bunch of humpbacks playing just past Point Perpendicular, as well as bottlenose dolphins close to shore.

The guides onboard are experienced and very knowledgeable, and they absolutely love their job.

You can choose between the larger, more stable ship they operate, or a jetboat, which is faster and creates a safer environment for marine life.

One of the top things to do on the South Coast for people who love nature is camping. 

Luckily there are plenty of campgrounds in Jervis Bay with spacious, grassy areas for setting up a tent or parking your van. 

Some of the campgrounds even have facilities like toilets, showers, kitchens, picnic tables, and barbeque stations. 

The most popular campgrounds in Jervis Bay are  Bristol Point Camping Ground, Green Patch Campground  and  Honeymoon Bay Campground . 

Cave Beach Camping is also popular. Cave Beach is perfect for light packers who have minimal camping gear, as you have to walk to the campground through the bush. You can’t drive in with camper vans.

Cave Beach isn’t the World’s Whitest Sand Beach, but it’s a less touristy gem that is a bit rugged and perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds.

If you don’t have camping gear, you can also rent a caravan at  Bream Beach Caravan Park  or  Jervis Bay Caravan Park . 

READ MORE: Check out our guide to the best places to visit in Australia!

Huskisson is one of the main places to visit in Jervis Bay so if you’re staying for the weekend, you’ll probably end up here at some point. 

Exploring the best things to do in Huskisson is a great way to pass the time in Jervis Bay. There are some adorable cafes, a bookshop, a cinema, a spa centre, and all the usual amenities like food stores and a post office. 

If you’re camping and need to buy groceries and supplies, Huskisson is a convenient place to go, although it is slightly pricey. For cheaper groceries, go to the big complex on the main road near Vincentia.

Or if you encounter some rain, there is plenty of entertainment here to pass the time. Huskisson is a centrally located hub for all the best Jervis Bay attractions.

Any history buffs or people who just love learning should stop by this museum . 

Located in Huskisson, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum has lots of exhibitions, photographs, and artifacts on display that showcase how the maritime industry has evolved over time.  

You can see historical vessels and ships, as well as interesting maritime instruments that were used back in the day. 

Jervis Bay Maritime Museum also has a gift shop and a nice garden with a pond and a boardwalk. 

For people who want a nice relaxing day out on the water, stand up paddleboarding is an amazing Jervis Bay activity.

Stand up paddleboarding is a super easy and family-friendly water sport. The boards are big and sturdy so you can cruise along the water without worrying too much about athletic ability. 

The conditions in Jervis Bay are also perfect for paddle boarding because the water is clear and calm. 

Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle  is the best company in the area for hiring paddleboards.

They also offer lessons and tours for beginners or for those who want a guide to show them the best spots.

You can cruise past the most beautiful Jervis Bay beaches and get a new perspective.

They recommend you call them at 0403 354 716 or email them for inquiries. 

Another exciting water sport to try in Jervis Bay is kayaking. 

Kayaking provides a bit more stability than paddleboarding because your centre of gravity is lower. 

One of the best places to kayak in Jervis Bay is Currambene Creek , where the water is smooth and clear and the views are beautiful. 

You can also rent kayaks at Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle, and they even have glass-bottom kayaks so you can see underwater while paddling!

Jervis Bay Kayak Hire is another great kayak rental company you can visit. Find more info on the Jervis Bay Kayak website !

Anyone wondering what to see in Jervis Bay should head to Booderee National Park . This lush national park set on a peninsula and is full of fun things to do. 

Visit the Cape St. George Lighthouse , go hiking in the forest, spot some local kangaroos, or soak up the sun on one of the beautiful national park beaches like Iluka Beach, Caves Beach or Murrays Beach .  

You could also check out the fascinating natural rock formations of the Scottish Rocks or the Hole In The Wall in Booderee National Park. 

The entry fee to Booderee National Park is $13 per vehicle for 48 hours. The money is so worth it for one of the best Jervis Bay attractions!

It’s not just all about chilling at popular spots like Hyams Beach, Greenfield Beach or Murrays Beach when in Jervis Bay – One of the highlights of Booderee National Park is the botanic gardens. 

Anyone with even the slightest interest in plants and flowers will enjoy their visit here.

You can learn all about the native plants and their significance to the indigenous Koori people of the area, and you can stretch your legs on the nature trails that circle through the gardens. 

Exploring the botanic gardens is one of the top things to do at Jervis Bay for those who want to immerse themselves in nature without actually camping or getting too deep into the forest. 

READ MORE: Looking for more things to do in New South Wales? Check out our list of the best Sydney day trips !

The ocean lining the state of  New South Wales is packed with dolphins. Sometimes you can see them from the shore, but the best way to spot dolphins is by booking a boat tour . 

You can book a 1.5-hour boat tour where you’re likely to see a large number of dolphins frolicking in the ocean. 

The local Jervis Bay tour guide will also teach you some fun facts about Jervis Bay, and you’ll get to enjoy a lovely view of the bay from the water. 

For any hikers and adventurous travellers wondering what to do in Jervis Bay, head to the Currarong area and hike to Gosangs Tunnel. 

Start at Abraham’s Bosom Reserve in Currarong and follow the trail along the coast. 

The views along this walk are dramatic and rugged. You’ll see some interesting natural rock formations, the serene and beautiful Mermaid’s Inlet and, eventually, you’ll get to crawl through Gosangs Tunnel which is about 20 meters long. 

Taking about 1.5 hours and covering just under 5 km, this hike is relatively easy. But you’ll cover some rocky terrain so it isn’t really suitable for young children. 

A fun way to explore Jervis Bay is by bicycle. 

Because the towns are small and the car traffic moves very slowly, Jervis Bay is a very pedestrian and biker friendly zone. 

Head to the town of Vincentia and visit Jervis Bay Bike Hire . This family-owned companyv is loved by locals and rents out high-quality bicycles so you can make the most of your time in Jervis Bay. 

Located at the southernmost tip of Jervis Bay’s upper peninsula (called the Beecroft Peninsula), Point Perpendicular Lighthouse can seem like it is suspended in the middle of the ocean. 

Because this lighthouse was first lit in 1899, it is sometimes called the Turn-Of-The-Century Lighthouse . 

Drive into Currarong along Currarong Road, then turn right onto Lighthouse Road. You’ll have to drive along that rocky, dusty road for about 7km before you reach the lighthouse. 

But once you’re there, you can absorb the amazing views of the surrounding ocean and coastline. 

The 90m-high coastal cliff is the second-highest in the state, and if you’re real lucky you can even see whales cruising by.

While visiting any of the beaches in Jervis Bay, snorkelling is one of the most fun activities you can do.

More often than not, the water is crystal clear and filled with interesting fish and sea plants. 

Jervis Bay Marine Park  and  Booderee National Park  have lots of amazing beaches for snorkelling.

Any of the SUP and kayak rental places previously mentioned also offer snorkelling gear, as do most tourism companies in Jervis Bay. 

One of the most exhilarating activities in Jervis Bay is to go swimming alongside seals or whales in the ocean. 

The local diving company, Dive Jervis Bay , offers so many different options for diving and swimming with wildlife, so there is something for everyone. 

They have two different tours on their website that include swimming with seals or whales. And they also offer scuba diving courses for people who want to learn. 

This company is super reputable and has so many exciting diving options, so definitely check them out if you want some memorable experiences in Jervis Bay!

In addition to the underwater wildlife like dolphins, seals, and whales, Jervis Bay is home to a number of fascinating local bird species. 

Any bird lovers or wildlife photographers will have a blast exploring the bush here and trying to spot some beautiful winged creatures. 

Booderee National Park is one of the best places for birdwatching. There are so many walking trails along the coast and in the bush, so ask at the information desk for their recommendations for that day. 

Early morning is the best time for bird-watching unless you’re looking for owls!

Some of the notable species in Jervis Bay include albatrosses, rainbow lorikeets, robins, and wattlebirds. 

This peaceful walk showcases some of the local bio-diversity and is one of the best Jervis Bay attractions for the whole family. 

This is another perfect spot for bird-watching, and you can also check out the mangroves and the crabs and fish that live there. 

This walk starts behind the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum and stretches on for about 1.5 km along Currambene Creek. 

The Aboriginal culture is very prominent in Jervis Bay, so it is very interesting to learn about the history and ways of life that have thrived here for generations. 

In Booderee National Park, head to Galamban Aboriginal Experiences to book a tour or a class led by the traditional owners of the land.

You’ll get to learn all about the indigenous culture of the area and even take part in a few workshops and classes like traditional weaving and survival skills. 

The perfect ending to a day of sun, ocean, and adventure is relaxing with an amazing view of the sunset. 

Cozying up with a drink in hand or a loved one by your side and watching the sunset is definitely one of the best things to do in Jervis Bay. 

Hyams Beach and Point Perpendicular Lighthouse are two lovely sunset-viewing spots. 

Another one is Plantation Point near the town of Vincentia. This headland is situated between Nelsons Beach on the south and Barfleur Beach on the north, and it’s an amazing spot to watch the sunset. 

Jervis Bay Travel Guide

So hopefully you’ve had the chance to enjoy Greenfield Beach and the White Sands Walk, Jervis Bay Brewing Company, the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse, and all the other Jervis Bay attractions.

Now that you know what to do in Jervis Bay, you can start thinking about where to stay and what to eat in the area. 

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay has some amazing accommodation options. Unfortunately for solo travellers and backpackers, there aren’t any hostels in the area. 

But for anyone wondering how to explore Jervis Bay on a budget, there are still some great motels that have cheap rooms.

If you really want to save the most money, camping is the cheapest option. But you’d have to have your own tent and gear. 

For those with higher budgets, there are some gorgeous hotels and resorts where you can spend the weekend relaxing and enjoying your magical surroundings. 

There are also lots of houses and apartments that are rented out so you can enjoy the coziness of staying in an actual home. 

Budget travellers in Jervis Bay could stay at this highly-rated yet affordable motel . 

Located in the town of Huskisson near lots of shops and restaurants, this motel is comfortable and gets lots of positive reviews regarding customer service and cleanliness. 

A standard motel room costs less than $100 a night. Sure it’s not a $20 hostel dorm room, but it’s still a decent price for such a stunning area. 

For couples who want a nice place to stay in Jervis Bay that doesn’t break the bank, Wildwood Homestay is a fantastic option . 

At only $160 per night, you get to rent out the entire house so this is also a good option for families (and it’s pet friendly!)

You’ll feel right at home in this cozy place and it’s only 5 minutes away from the beach.

This beautiful bed and breakfast in Jervis Bay has a 9.6 out of 10 rating, and previous customers rave about the clean rooms and the quiet, peaceful atmosphere. 

A King Room costs $230 per night and includes breakfast and free Wifi. There is also a swimming pool and garden for your enjoyment.

If you’re willing to splurge a bit of money on an incredible stay in Jervis Bay, I highly recommend you stay in a gorgeous beachfront home . 

Enjoy having an entire luxury house to yourself. By The Sea is literally just steps away from Culburra Beach, so you can enjoy ocean views from the home and pop down for a swim at any time. 

Best Restaurants in Jervis Bay

There isn’t a huge selection of eateries in Jervis Bay because the area is mainly for camping, exploring, and heading to the beach. 

But in the towns of Huskisson and Vincentia, there are some great restaurants and cafes that serve up traditional Australian food for decent prices. 

We’re going to let you in on a little secret – the best place to eat in Jervis Bay is actually a mobile woodfire pizza trailer!

Run by the incredibly friendly and pizza extraordinaire powerhouse couple Wes and Mary, these guys have a few authentic woodfire pizza ovens mounted on trailers and the back of utes that they take all over the South Coast.

Remarkably affordable and as mouthwatering as anything you’ll ever taste, their pizza is guaranteed to have you seeking them out wherever you go.

It’s so good, we ate there twice!

The best place to find them is to check out there website or social media accounts to see where they are located or you can just give them a call.

Alternatively they can be booked for events as well.

NOMADasaurus Tip – Ask them about their secret menu…

• Website: https://wanderingwoodfireoven.com/
• Phone: 0439 722 162
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wanderingwoodfireoven/

If you’re looking for a cheap meal in Jervis Bay, head to the World Famous Fish N Chips Huskisson . 

Whether the fish and chips here are actually world-famous or not, they are delicious and make a nice quick and easy lunch after a long day at the beach. 

One of the top places to eat in Jervis Bay and a favourite among locals is the Husky Pub . 

This restaurant is part of the Huskisson Hotel and offers some delicious, high-quality classic Australian dishes. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Thankyou for mentioning my small business in this article, However the address you have used is not correct, the business moved to 10 Burton Street Vincentia more than 3 years ago, Would you be able to update the information? Thank you Jervis Bay BikeHire

Hi Finch, no worries at all. We changed it on the article. All the best.

The Wandering Woodfired pizza is no longer at Jervis Bay Brewing. Pilgrims has closed. The other two food places mentioned are not that great at all. If you want great Italian head to Peter & Eva’s in Huskisson. The best brekky place is Harleys or Kraken Sourdough both in Huskisson.

Hi Lily, Thank you so much for the update information. We appreciate it. Take care

What a great guide you have here! I love Jervis Bay. I live about a 90-minute drive away and have only been once. Definitely need to plan another trip, as there are so many free things to see and do while your here.

Thank you so much. Jervis Bay is such an amazing place. Have a great time when you plan your trip there. 🙂

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15 Things to do in Jervis Bay, Australia

Located three hours to the south of Sydney, the coastal community of Jervis Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New South Wales.

Right on the border with Victoria, Jervis Bay is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches on the east coast of Australia.

This protected area is home to the Jervis Bay Marine Park, where you can snorkel and scuba dive, as well as the Boodoree National Park and Botanic Gardens, a protected area wholly managed by the local Aboriginal community. 

To inspire your trip, here are our favorite things to do in Jervis Bay!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Australia (Travel Guide)

15 Things to Do in Jervis Bay, Australia

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Boodoree National Park and Botanic Gardens

The area now known as the Boodoree National Park and Botanic Garden was formerly known as the Jervis Bay National Park.

Before that, this was Aboriginal land for thousands of years. To recognize that, the administration of the land was given over the local community to protect the area.

Within the national park, you’ll find the best beaches and natural sights within the wider Jervis Bay area. The botanic gardens are the largest in Australia to be managed by an Aboriginal group.

If you are into nature and the great outdoors you need to check out this tour offered from Jervis Bay: Fishermans Paradise Eco-walk

2. Visit the Beaches of Huskisson

The small coastal community of Huskisson is one of the major tourist hubs in the Jervis Bay region.

The town is best known for its beautiful white-sand beaches; the best include Huskisson Beach and White Sands Beach, both of which are just a short walk from the center.

You’ll find some lovely caravan parks and holiday homes in Huskisson, as well as charming local cafes and restaurants, making this one of the best places to stay while you explore the rest of Jervis Bay.

When visiting Jervis Bay you must do this tour: Jervis Bay Passage Cruise

3. Delve into History at the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum

For history lovers, one of the best things to do in Jervis Bay is to visit the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum.

The region has a long history of boat building, fishing, and whaling. You can learn about all this at this great local museum.

You’ll see historical wooden ships, old navigational devices, and many more exhibits on display. There’s also a section devoted to pre-European history.

You can learn more about the local Aboriginal groups that called Jervis Bay home for thousands of years before Captain Cook arrived.

4. Visit the Cape St George Lighthouse

History lovers will want to visit the dramatic ruins of the 150-year-old Cape St George Lighthouse, located along the coast in Boodoree National Park.

This historic lighthouse was built to protect ships traveling along the rugged coast of New South Wales, but it was built in the wrong place in the 1860s.

The lighthouse proved to be dangerous to passing ships, attracting them towards a hazardous stretch of coastline. In the 1920s, the lighthouse was torn down – but not before at least 20 ships were wrecked on the rocks here!

Today, the ruins make for a fantastic piece of local history and a great lookout over the Pacific Ocean. 

5. Join a Whale Watching Tour

Europeans originally settled the Jervis Bay area because of the vast number of whales that migrated along the coastline. Whaling was an integral part of Jervis Bay’s history until the whales were almost hunted to extinction.

Today, whaling is no longer a thing, of course. Instead, the whale populations are protected and have become an integral part of the local tourism industry.

If you’re here between May and November, one of the best things to do in Jervis Bay is to join a whale watching tour.

Whales migrate north, passing close to the coast and the marine park. They often use the sheltered bays to rest and recuperate on their great migrations.

Book your Jervis Bay Whale Watching Cruise today!

6. Join a Dolphin Watching Tour

As well as whale watching tours, you can join dolphin watching tours. Because many dolphins are local to the area, tours run throughout most of the year, except if the weather is too rough.

Many of the local dolphins are friendly and well known to the boat captains. They’ll often put on a show for the passing boats in Jervis Bay!

Book your Jervis Bay Dolphin Watch Cruise today!

7. Snorkel the Jervis Bay Marine Park

The Jervis Bay Marine Park is a protected area covering much of the water of Jervis Bay itself, starting from the easily accessible waterfront at Huskisson.

The marine park is a wonderfully diverse place. If you’re here in summer, one of the best things to do in Jervis Bay is to go snorkeling.

You’ll find a glorious underwater world and crystal-clear water that gives perfect visibility to snorkelers.

8. Scuba Dive Bowen Island

Bowen Island is a small, protected island found off the coast of Boodoree National Park. The island is an important nesting site for Little Penguins and is home to hundreds of these little creatures.

That makes access by land difficult for your average tourist, but underwater access is an attractive option.

One of the best things to do in Jervis Bay is to go scuba diving around Bowen Island. The rocky, underwater terrain is a haven for marine life. Divers love the overhangs and underwater caves and canyons found here.

9. Dive the Fairey Firefly Wreck

One of the most fascinating dive sites in Jervis Bay is the wreck of a crashed Fairey Firefly plane. Fairey Fireflies were famously flown through World War II, but this plane crashed while being used for training in 1956.

The wreck now attracts a vast array of marine life and makes for a historic diving point within Jervis Bay.

10. Surf the South Coast Pipe

Surfers will find a lot of great waves and breaks they can hit up while in Jervis Bay; one of the most famous is the South Coast Pipe. The pipe is found in Summercloud Bay, which is part of Boodoree National Park.

This is one of the most iconic waves on the East Coast of Australia , but it’s not one for the amateurs. The tube can reach up to 12 feet in height, making this a challenge even for the pros.

While you can surf it if you’re experienced, it’s just as much fun to watch the pros hitting up the South Coast Pipe from the safety of the beach!

11. Enjoy the View at Steamers Beach

One of the best things to do in Jervis Bay is to enjoy the view at Steamers Beach. This epic coastal spot is where you’ll find a long line of dramatic sea cliffs, towering high above the beach.

Steamers Beach has cliffs that rise to 130 meters in height, making these some of the tallest sea cliffs in New South Wales.

For exceptional views, walk down an incredibly steep set of stairs that lead below the cliffs. Or you can enjoy the vistas from the top of the cliffs if you don’t want to tackle the stairs!

If your into view’s you have to check out this tour: Hiking The Castle in the spectacular Budawang Mountain Range

12. Hike White Sands Walk

One of the best things to do in Jervis Bay is to hike the White Sands walking track. This relaxed walk lasts around 90 minutes, there and back.

It starts at Greenfield Beach on the coast of Jervis Bay and finishes at Hyams Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the area.

 The walk takes its name from the fact that the beaches you pass are home to some of the whitest sands in Australia.

The beaches are truly stunning, and you can stop off where you please as you walk from one stretch of sand to the next!

If your feeling adventurous while visiting Jervis Bay you need to go on this tour: Canoes Champagne and Canapés – Kangaroo Valley

13. Relax at Hyams Beach

Hyams Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Jervis Bay. It’s worth taking extra time to enjoy the views and the soft, white sand.

The beach is found at the end of the White Sands walk, but you can get here by road too.

The long, white sand beach follows Jervis Bay to the south, where you meet the border with the protected area of Boodoree National Park.

14. Marvel at Greenpatch Point

Carry on to the south of Hyams Beach, and you’ll soon reach Greenpatch Point, one of the most beautiful places within Boodoree National Park.

Greenpatch Point overlooks the calm, crystal clear waters of Jervis Bay. It’s the perfect place to spend the day in solitude. The surrounding sands are perfectly white, while the views over the bay are astounding.

15. Explore Jerrawangala National Park

Head inland once you’ve explored all the best things to do in Jervis Bay, and you can visit the wild setting of Jerrawangala National Park.

This beautiful area is great for outdoor lovers. The best place to hike to is the Jerrawangala Lookout. From the hilltop, you can see across the national park and as far out as Jervis Bay along the coast!

Bonus! Hiking in Boodoree National Park

One of the perks of camping in a National Park in Australia is that you have access to some pretty neat walking tracks.

Booderee National Park is no exception to this and during our 4 days of camping there, we took advantage of the well-marked paths and diverse landscape that the park offers to its patrons.

Since we had decided to camp at Green Patch, we were right in the heart of the park with access to the beach and walking trails.

There is something peaceful about wandering along a path in the woods. The only sounds you hear are your feet across the ground, the calls of the birds and the wind moving softly through the trees.

I found myself stopping frequently and looking up into the tall trees and just listening. It was a surreal experience.  

It wasn’t long before we sighted our first animal, a cute little Wallaby just hanging out in the path. Although startled enough to bounce off the trail, he was too curious to keep going and lingered for us to get a little closer.

Not really bothered by us but not wanting us to move quickly or get any closer either. I was ok with this; I had a zoom lens .

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Jervis Bay National Park

South Coast NSW

North of Huskisson, Jervis Bay National Park spreads outwards from the graceful arc of Callala Bay. More than 4850 hectares of low scrub and woodland clasp the bay, itself a marine park. There are also pockets of protected land further south, around Huskisson and white-sand Hyams Beach, which are replete with easy walking paths and family-friendly beaches. There are picnic areas (and toilets) at Red Point, Hammerhead Point and Greenfield Beach, which also has barbecue facilities and drinking water.

Get In Touch

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

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13 AWESOME Things To Do In Jervis Bay NSW

Looking for the best things to do in Jervis Bay?!

Jervis Bay is known nationally and internationally as a very unique destination on Australia’s east coast.

It’s most famous for its calm turquoise waters, the whitest sand beaches in the world, and stunning national parks!

Apart from the beautiful beaches, there are many other fun-fuelled things to do in Jervis Bay such as taking a stroll along the scenic White Sands Walk, marveling at the view from cliff-top lookouts, and whale-watching tours, to name a few.

I recommend spending anywhere between 2 days and 1 week exploring all of the Jervis Bay attractions.

I have put together this ultimate guide to Jervis Bay NSW including how to get here, things to see and do, where to stay, and much more!

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: THINGS TO DO IN JERVIS BAY

Before I dive into all the best things to do in Jervis Bay, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.

WHERE IS JERVIS BAY & HOW TO GET THERE?

Jervis Bay is approximately a 3-hour drive south of Sydney.

Click here to see the location on Google Maps.

It’s best to have your own vehicle to visit as public transportation options are few and far between.

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CAN I TAKE A DAY TRIP TO JERVIS BAY?

Yes, you can take a day trip to Jervis Bay from Sydney .

This small group tour includes transport to and from Sydney, a coastal cruise on a bike along the shoreline of Jervis Bay, and a visit to the world’s whitest sand beach, Hyams Beach.

Click here to check rates and availability!

WHAT ARE THE BEST JERVIS BAY TOURS?

When is the best time to visit jervis bay.

Jervis Bay sees glorious sunshine almost all year round.

If you want the best of the best conditions weatherwise, I recommend visiting between May and October (Autumn, Winter, and Spring) which is less busy and ideal for beach bumming, coastal walks, and water sports.

Summer is between December and February which sees hotter temperatures, some rainfall, and more tourists.

All that aside, it’s still a great time to visit during this time.

13 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN JERVIS BAY

It’s best to start your adventures in the main town of Huskisson and work your way south along the coast and you’ll end up at the southernmost tip of the bay at Governor Head Lookout.

So, without further ado, here are the best things to do during your visit to Jervis Bay NSW.

WHALE WATCHING IN JERVIS BAY

First up on the list of awesome things to do is a whale-watching tour which is an absolute must during your visit!

I recommend booking the whale watching in Jervis Bay tour online in advance with Klook to get the best rates.

Hop onboard a 2-hour cruise that will take you outside the bay to spot humpback whales showing off their acrobatic skills during their annual migration along the east coast of Australia.

Whales can be seen between the months of June and November each year, so if you wish to add this experience to your list of things to do, be sure to visit during this time.

Apart from spotting whales on the Jervis Bay Whale Watching Tour, you’ll also get a close encounter with pods of dolphins that play in the bay all year round!

FULL BLOG POST: WHALE WATCHING IN JERVIS BAY

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PILGRIMS VEGETARIAN CAFE

Feeling hungry? Whether you’re vegetarian or not, Pilgrims is rated one of the best cafes in Jervis Bay! Pilgrims cafe is open 7 days a week from 7 am – 3 pm.

They are offering an all-day menu including coffee, tea, milkshakes, acai bowls, brekky burgers, burritos, wraps, salads, and much more!

Pilgrims is located in the main town of Huskisson on Owen Street. You can either grab a takeaway or sit down at a table to enjoy your meal with waterfront views.

TAKE A DIP AT NELSONS BEACH

Next up on this list of things to do is Nelsons Beach, which can be found just a short drive south of Huskisson in a place called Vincentia.

Nelsons Beach is absolutely stunning, featuring soft white sands, calm turquoise waters, and extensive views of the bay.

It’s the perfect spot to jump in the water for a refreshing dip and bum around on the beach for an hour or two.

It’s here at Nelsons Beach where the White Sands Walk starts. This scenic coastal walk hugs the shoreline and leads through the rainforest in some areas.

The trail is clearly signposted and will bring you to a number of beautiful beaches as you head south.

VISIT BLENHEIM BEACH

Blenheim Beach lies below Nelsons Beach and it’s the first beach you’ll come to on the White Sands Walk.

This particular beach features a tucked-away cove with white sandy shores and calm waters that is surrounded by lush rainforest.

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It’s a great spot to get away from the more crowded beaches and you’ll most likely have Blenheim Beach all to yourself to enjoy.

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CHECK OUT GREENFIELD BEACH

Continuing on the White Sands Walk, Greenfield Beach is a worthy addition to your list of Jervis Bay things to do.

Greenfield Beach is a larger beach that lies in a beautiful cove with a rocky headland on the north end and plenty of space to hang out on the soft sands near the water’s edge.

There is also a picnic area at Greenfield Beach, located a stone’s throw from the shoreline beneath a lush canopy of trees.

It’s the perfect setting to hang out with your friends and family before or after enjoying a swim at the beautiful Greenfield Beach.

TAKE A STROLL ON CHINAMANS BEACH

Chinamans Beach is one of my personal favorites.

It’s very easy to access Chinamans Beach via the White Sands Walk or alternatively, you can drive right down to the parking lot by the beach.

Featuring a large stretch of glistening white sands and vibrant turquoise waters, this is one spot you don’t want to miss during your stay.

For the best views, stroll down the shoreline to a set of stairs on the northern end of Chinamans Beach Jervis Bay and walk to the top for spectacular views overlooking the beach and the bay.

RELATED ARTICLE: 3 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN KIAMA

HYAMS BEACH – WORLD’S WHITEST SAND BEACH

Hyams Beach is renowned for having the whitest sand beach in the entire world! It’s safe to say that a visit to Hyams Beach is an absolute must, even if it’s the only thing you do!

Located a stone’s throw to the south of Chinamans Beach, I guarantee you’ll be in awe as soon as you lay eyes on this magnificent paradise!

Boasting a looong stretch of blinding white sands, dazzling turquoise water, and fringed by lush rainforest.

I visited Jervis Bay after a storm had passed through so, unfortunately, Hyams Beach was covered in seagrass and wasn’t as appealing as I had expected.

Fingers crossed that you get to see and experience Hyams Beach in all its glory during your visit.

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KANGAROOS ON GREEN PATCH BEACH

One of the most iconic things to do at Jervis Bay is to see the resident kangaroos and wallabies that frequent Green Patch Beach in Booderee National Park.

It’s a short 10-minute drive from Hyams Beach to Green Patch Beach, and plenty of free parking spaces are available down by the shoreline.

You can also spend a night or two at the Green Patch campground if you wish to spend some more time in this beautiful section of the bay.

If you have some carrots on hand you may be lucky enough to be able to feed the kangaroos on Green Patch Beach which I am sure for some is a dream come true when visiting Australia.

VISIT THE HOLE IN THE WALL

Next on this list of awesome things to do in the bay is a visit to the famed Hole In The Wall, a naturally carved-out rocky headland that can be accessed via an easy walking trail.

When traveling to the east of Green Patch Beach, you’ll see signs for Hole In The Wall so that you won’t miss it.

Follow the bush trail down to the beach from the parking lot, and only on low tide can you wander out to the Hole In The Wall for a closer look.

DISCOVER MURRAYS BEACH

Murrays Beach is another popular spot among locals and tourists which is a worthy addition to your things to do in Jervis Bay list. 

This stunning beach features a large cove, sugary soft sands, and a rainforest-fringed shoreline.

When you discover Murrays Beach for yourself, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived in a remote paradise with nothing but pure nature that surrounds this area.

Take a dip in the ocean, beach bum under in the sun, or enjoy a picnic at one of the wooden tables in the shade beneath the rainforest canopy.

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SEE THE VIEW FROM GOVERNOR HEAD LOOKOUT

Seeing the panoramic view of Jervis Bay from Governor Head Lookout is a worthy addition to your list of things to do.

Located on the very southeastern tip of the bay, Governor Head Lookout offers the best views of the entire bay and also looks directly across to Bowen Island which is home to a penguin colony.

If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot seals, dolphins, and whales playing around in the ocean below.

To reach Governor Head Lookout, it’s a great 30-minute return trip on foot from Murrays Beach along a dirt trail that leads through the Booderee National Park.

STEAMERS BEACH

Steamers Beach is a little more remote and a little harder to get to but it’s well worth the hike to get here.

Featuring a stunning cove filled with vibrant turquoise waters and surrounded by verdant cliffs, I think it’s safe to say that Steamers Beach is a must-see!

From the parking lot, a bush trail leads through Booderee National Park and down to the shoreline with a distance of 2.3 km one way.

For the average person, it takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Steamers Beach.

Please be cautious when swimming at Steamers Beach as sharks tend to frequent the waters here and there are flash rips that can potentially pull you out to sea. 

CAVE BEACH JERVIS BAY

Last but not least on this list of things to do in Jervis Bay is a visit to Cave Beach, which can be found in the stunning Booderee National Park.

Cave Beach is best known for providing great waves for surfers, and it also features a large sandy bay for all beachgoers.

It’s a great opportunity to get in the ocean for a refreshing dip!

From the parking lot, it’s a short walk down the trail to reach Cave Beach, and you may even spot some kangaroos along the way.

If you plan to spend a night or two, Cave Beach Campground is rated as one of the best camping areas in Australia, be sure to book well in advance to secure a spot.

WHERE TO STAY IN JERVIS BAY

There are countless accommodation options to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Jervis Bay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See below for a list of accommodations that I personally recommend.

LUXURY: WORROWING JERVIS BAY

MID RANGE: HUSKISSON BAYSIDE RESORT

BUDGET: JUST 4 YOU

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When visiting Jervis Bay, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

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FINAL THOUGHTS – JERVIS BAY THINGS TO DO

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about what to do in Jervis Bay, please leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can!

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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Jervis Bay Visitor Information Centre

Visit the Jervis Bay Visitor Information Centre for information on the local area.

About this location

11 Dent Street, Huskisson NSW 2540

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This website contains information about products and services supplied by third parties and links to other websites. The information on this website and the links to other websites are provided as a general reference source only. All information on this website and links to other websites are provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness, fitness for purpose or of the results obtained from using this information. The information on this website and the links to other websites do not constitute or imply any endorsement or approval by the State of New South Wales of the information or the material at those websites, or any associated organisation, product or service. The information on this website and the links to other websites are provided on the understanding that the State of New South Wales is not providing professional advice on a particular matter.

Please see https://www.nsw.gov.au/disclaimer for more information.

• 1.1 Visitor informaton
• 2.2 By train
• 2.4 By plane
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Huskisson, Vincentia and Jervis Bay Territory
• 4.2 Currarong and Beecroft Peninsula
• 5.1 Huskisson, Vincentia and Jervis Bay Territory
• 5.2 Currarong and Beecroft Peninsula
• 9.1 Booderee National Park

Jervis Bay is a large protected bay in Shoalhaven 120 km south of Sydney and 20 km south of Nowra . It is home to HMAS Creswell, the Australian Navy's officer training facility. Navy ships are frequent visitors to the bay with the area directly in front of Creswell off limits to the public. It is famous for its white sand beaches (reputedly the whitest in the whole world), safe swimming and snorkelling.

Understand [ edit ]

The area is one of the most beautiful parts of the South Coast and is an extremely popular summer destination, making it very busy in peak periods. Accommodation may be fully booked out months in advance of the Christmas/New Year period. Opportunities exist to scuba dive, fish and engage in many other water sports, beach activities, walking, and hiking as well as appreciate the diverse flora and fauna.

Huskisson is the largest town in the Jervis Bay area. It's one of those towns that would be a sleepy little village if it weren't for the short term visitors who in summer comprise about two-thirds of the population.

The area has significant cultural and historic interest to both the Commonwealth and Aboriginal people of Australia. In 1995 parts of the Jervis Bay National Park were granted to the Aboriginal peoples and this land was designated Booderee National Park and Booderee Botanic Gardens

Jervis Bay Marine Park covers 100 km of coast and adjacent waters, from Kinghorn Point in the north to Sussex Inlet in the south which encompasses Jervis Bay, Crookhaven Bight to the north and Wreck Bay to the south. The waters in Jervis Bay from Captains Point to the northern tip of Bowen Island are part of Booderee National Park. Dolphins & seals are a regular sight in the bay, and it is also home to a colony of fairy penguins.

Currarong is a small town but in the northern area's of Jervis Bay, 60km away from Husky by car. It's the surf capital of Jervis Bay.

Beecroft Peninsula is a military range but open to the public. Home to Point Perpendicular with near perpendicular cliffs and some torpedos that were never used for WWII.

Visitor informaton [ edit ]

• visitnsw.com

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

You can visit the area by car on a day trip from Sydney, and it takes only about 2 hours on the road each way. Canberra is slightly closer at 0.5 hours distance. It is the perfect distance for a weekend away from these cities. Huskisson is about 10-15 minutes south of Nowra on the New South Wales south coast. The turnoff is well sign posted - on the left as you travel south on the A1 Princes Highway. If you are worried about being on the wrong road, look for an emu farm on the RHS about 3 minutes along this road. After about 5 km, you will see the sign for the next turnoff - it's on the left. That takes you straight into Huskisson.

The Princes Highway is fully 4 lanes each way from Mascot to the Husky turnoff and a motorway grade route except a small section near Bomaderry, which is expected to open in 2022.

By train [ edit ]

-34.854262 150.609602 1 Bomaderry Station is the closest train station, and journeys take about 3 hours from Sydney Central Station with a transfer at Kiama . From there it is a further 30 minutes by car or taxi to Huskisson. Nowra coaches do operate a few services from station on weekdays, and a single service each way on weekends.

By bus [ edit ]

There is a limited bus service (TfNSW bus route 102 ) from the large town of Nowra to Huskisson, Vincentia and Hyams Beach.

By plane [ edit ]

The closest major airports are in Sydney and Canberra .

Moruya has a small regional airport with scheduled flights from Sydney. It is 2 hours drive south.

The only airport in Jervis Bay Territory itself is for military use.

Get around [ edit ]

Public transport is limited, and having a car is pretty much required. There are scheduled buses between the settlements.

• -35.038183 150.670897 1 Husky Ferry , A 10-minute ride between Myola and Huskisson centre . $15 adult return . ( updated Apr 2016 )

There is a off-road cycleway between Huskinsson and Vincentia. If you're staying along this coastal stretch, you can take the bikes and leave the car in the garage.

In Jervis Bay Territory/Booderee National Park, you distances are long, and you can not go through certain sections without a car. This is because there's some navy operations near here.

See [ edit ]

Jervis Bay is renowned for its white sand beaches, most notably Hyams Beach which has an official entry in the Guinness Bay of Records for the whitest beach in the world. Whale watching is also popular in Jervis Bay, as humpback whales come into the bay to rest during both their northern and southern migration. Many dolphins live in the bay.

• Go and see some of the sea life in the bay, including dolphins, or go whale watching in the ocean during the whale season:

Huskisson, Vincentia and Jervis Bay Territory [ edit ]

• Dolphin Explorer Cruises , 62 Owen St, Huskinsson , ☏ +61 2 4441 5455 , toll-free: 1800 444 330 , fax : +61 2 4441 5323 . Dolphin Explorer Cruises runs 3-hour whale-watching day cruises in the whale season (June to November) in addition to dolphin and seal watching day cruises. During summer they offer dolphin watching day cruises and a twilight cruise.  
• DolphinWild cruises , Currambene St, Huskisson ( office between the post office and the Husky Bakery ), ☏ +61 244417002 . DolphinWild is Huskisson's newest and most unique dolphin and whale watching company. The catamaran has 4 underwater viewing ports on either side so the underwater viewing of the marine life in the clear waters of Jervis bay is well worth seeing. Prices are very good too. Staff are really friendly and informative. ( updated Jan 2017 )

• -35.146 150.679 4 Booderee Botanic Gardens , Botanic Gardens Access . 9AM-4PM . Large botanic gardens with Aboriginal curation and native plants only. There are a variety of walks, with a 1-hour walk around the lake being the longest. Free . ( updated Jan 2017 )

Currarong and Beecroft Peninsula [ edit ]

• -35.007991 150.845267 5 Gosangs Tunnel . A small natural tunnel leading you to a stunning cliff and view of the sea. It's a 40-min walk from the carpark but you'll need to be reasonably fit to crawl under the tunnel, and it's not uncommon for unfit people to get injuries crawling under the tunnel. ( updated May 2021 )
• Mermaids Inlet . ( updated May 2021 )
• Point Perpendicular Lighthouse ( Turn at the Beecroft Weapons Range, and continue for about 9km on a gravel road. Do not get out of the car until PPL as it is an active military range. ). ( updated May 2021 )

Do [ edit ]

• Scuba dive . Huskisson has several dive operators, most near the wharf in Owen Street.
• Beaches - Huskisson has 2 lovely beaches (one in front of the pub, Shark net beach, and the other between the two caravan parks, White Sands). There are also lots of other beaches close by. The nearby National Park (10 minutes drive) has Caves Beach for surfers; Murrays Beach for its isolation and beauty, and the chance to see fairy penguins (thank your lucky stars it's still here, it was very nearly a nuclear power plant); Green Patch for kangaroos and loads of tame parrots (you're more likely to see these around the trails in the campground than on the beach itself); Summercloud Bay for the bluest lagoon with rays and great rock walks.
• -35.03837 150.667854 1 Huskisson Pictures , 30 Owen St, Huskisson , ☏ +61 2 4441 5076 . A very cute, very tiny wooden building, shows two or three different movies each week. The program times are usually stuck up in the window at the butchers. ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.076345 150.6904 3 Around Jervis Bay Bike Hire and Tours , 311 Elizabeth Dr, Vincentia , ☏ +61 410 335 015 . ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.1044 150.693717 4 Hyams Beach , 100 Cyrus St, Hyams Beach . The whitest beach in the world. This area is full of beach houses and little else, giving this beach a particularly relaxed feel. There is a cafe overlooking the beach. ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.172058 150.727851 5 Steamers Beach ( take Wreck Bay Road to Wreck Bay Villiage, and take the gravel turnoff sign posted to the car park ). Nice walk of about 1 hour each way from the car park to the isolated Streamers Beach in Booderee Park. Boasts great views, a seal colony and sharks which you may or may not see. (included in Booderee entrance) . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• -35.08767 150.79975 6 Outer Tubes ( near Point Perpendicular Lighthouse ). A 2km (one-way) difficult walking track to some nice viewing areas and to some popular fishing spots. The first km close to the carpark is flat, but after that, it becomes steep with loose surfaces. There are toilets and rubbish bins at the end of the track. Utilise these facilities well as there aren't any other facilities or bins nearby. You may also see some torpedo tubes that were installed in WWII in defence of Jervis Bay from an enemy attack. These were never used and are now heritage listed objects. Please don't touch or interfere with them. This track is also not suitable for children under the age of 10 and pets are strictly prohibited. ( updated May 2021 )

Buy [ edit ]

• -35.077038 150.656678 1 Vincentia Marketplace , 8 Moona Creek Rd, Vincentia , ☏ +61 2 4443 3118 . A large shopping complex with a large Woolworths and Aldi grocery stores. Other shops can be found here, as can a fish and chip shop and a Thai restaurant. ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.135697 150.706255 2 Jervis Bay Supermarket , 95 Village Road , ☏ +61 2 4442 1204 . Opens 6AM . Basic supermarket with snacks and various outdoor supplies. The attached cafe has limited hours. ( updated Apr 2016 )

Eat [ edit ]

Huskisson has several good eateries and a couple of ordinary ones! Again, it pays to be aware of the peak seasons, and make reservations for dinner during the summer season. The Indian and Thai are both fine.

• Seagrass , Huskisson . Wonderful - slick interiors and lovely food. ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.038967 150.670108 1 Supply , 54 Owen Street, Huskisson . It has lovely coffee and great breakfast, may be slow on busy days but hey, you're in Huskisson, where are you going in such a rush! ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.069508 150.674682 2 Bayview Cafe Jervis Bay Gourmet Pies & Cakes , 2 The Wool Rd, Vincentia , ☏ +61 2 4441 7077 . ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.102 150.692 3 Hyams Beach Store & Cafe , 76 Cyrus St, Hyams Beach , ☏ +61 2 4443 3874 . Su-Th 8AM - 4PM, F Sa 8AM - 5PM . Relaxed family-run eatery offering artisan coffee, plus a seasonal brunch and lunch menu. Also offers dinner Friday and Saturday from 6PM. ( updated Jan 2017 )

Drink [ edit ]

• -35.038765 150.672199 1 The Huskisson Hotel ( Husky Pub ), Owen St, Huskisson . Has a large beer garden looking over the entrance to the creek, boats bobbing in the distance. Across the creek is a long white sandy beach - no houses. Truly wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Weekends bring evening entertainment - a covers band, a karaoke competition, some sports event on all the screens. Loads of fun (particularly if you have been in the beer garden all afternoon). ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.038922 150.670978 2 Fresh at the Bay , 64 Owen Street, Huskisson . Best coffee in town, great breakfasts with dinner and cocktails on Friday and Saturday night.  

Sleep [ edit ]

Holiday cottages are very popular here. They are often booked out for Christmas many months in advance.

• Holidays Collection , ☏ +61 2 4443 0242 , [email protected] . A number of holiday cottages available to rent in the area ( updated Nov 2016 )

There are also many camping sites around the bay.

Booderee National Park [ edit ]

See the national park website [dead link] for further details, costs, etc.

There are three campgrounds in the national park. You must reserve a campsite in advance, and also check in at the Visitors Centre before setting up your site. The Christmas and Easter periods are booked as much as four months in advance. The peak period fees apply from the beginning of December until the end of the New South Wales Easter school holidays. To reserve a campsite, contact the Visitors Centre. Additionally, to enter, you'll need to pay $13 for two days. Single day tickets are not available. NSW Parks passes are also not valid in Booderee, since it is not part of NSW.

• -35.138134 150.728506 1 Bristol Point Camping Ground , Jervis Bay Rd . This campground is designed for groups of 20-35 people per site. Amenities include a shower block with hot water and wood barbecues. No camping vehicles can be taken on site. ( updated Apr 2016 )
• -35.16028 150.668561 3 Cave Beach Campground , Caves Beach Rd , ☏ +61 451 047 263 . This camp ground is designed for people travelling light: all camping equipment must be carried in from the car park 300 m away. Amenities are limited to toilets, cold showers, and wood barbecues. Additionally, there's a high chance that there'll be a kangaroo next to you, so if you're a kangaroo fan, then Cave Beach allows you to go up close to them. Please don't touch them, as you may be passing diseases that they have no immunity to. ( updated Jun 2021 )

Motels [ edit ]

There are numerous motels in Jervis Bay.

Go next [ edit ]

Ulladulla is about 45 minutes south of Jervis Bay.

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Jervis Bay Territory: Your Questions Answered

Home » Jervis Bay Territory: Your Questions Answered

When most people think of Jervis Bay , they think of the popular tourist destination on the NSW South Coast. Technically, Jervis Bay is a body of water with settlements along the northern and southern sides. These include the villages of Huskisson, Vincentia, Callala Beach, Callala Bay and Hyams Beach.

Jervis Bay also includes Jervis Bay Territory, a little known but rather unique piece of land that is a territory of the Commonwealth of Australia. Even though Jervis Bay Territory is administered by the ACT (cars have ACT plates and if you encounter a police officer they will be AFP), it is actually a completely separate territory. 

Here’s a quick rundown on the history, who lives there and what makes it so special.

Jervis Bay Territory: Fast Facts

• Jervis Bay Territory became federal territory when in 1915 the capital decided it needed a port. Being the closest body of water to Canberra, it made sense for New South Wales to hand over the small peninsula. A Royal Australian Naval College ( HMAS Creswell ) was opened shortly after.
• Administration is divided up between ACT government agencies, NSW government agencies, Shoalhaven City Council and commercial contractors.
• Residents have no state or local representation, but their votes in federal elections count toward the Division of Fenner. .
• The ACT cannabis laws (allowing adults to possess up to 50 grams of cannabis) do not apply in Jervis Bay Territory due to the complexities involved in applying them.
• Most of the 391 residents work in defence and live in one of the two small villages of Jervis Bay Village and Wreck Bay Village

Watch this video for a quick rundown on the history of Jervis Bay Territory. 

Population Statistics

According to the 2016 Census, Jervis Bay Territory has a population of 391 with a median age of 32.

52.4% of the population is Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. The most common ancestries are Australian, English and Australian Aboriginal. 299 out of 391 (77.7%) people were born in Australia with England the only other response. 65% of people have parents who were both born in Australia. 

32.8% of people in have no religion which reflects the national average of 30.1%. Defence is the biggest employer (57.5%) followed by Nature Reserves and Conservation Parks Operation.

Booderee National Park: Jewel In The Crown

Most of Jervis Bay Territory (around three-quarters) is made up of the exquisitely beautiful and ecologically important Booderee National Park . It is one of only three parks in Australia owned and managed by traditional owners, in this case the local Wreck Bay Community. Tourists flock to the stunning white sand beaches over the summer and the park provides a safe haven for rare and endangered species. In 2018, the Eastern Quoll was released into Booderee after previously having become extinct on the mainland. 

Jervis Bay Pronunciation

Is it called JER-vis or JAR-vis Bay? If you’re from Sydney, you’ll probably say JARvis. However, locals are adamant that the correct pronunciation is JERvis and they are not shy in letting visitors know! The Navy is on the side of Sydneysiders:

“The official pronunciation that the Navy puts forward is JAR-vis. It was named after a fellow who was nicknamed Old Jarvy,” ( ABC News, 2017 )

But, does it really matter?

A linguist from the Australian National University doesn’t seem to think so

“I don’t know that there is such a thing as an objective pronunciation of a place,” ( ABC News, 2017 )

We tend to agree.

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Book your unforgettable jervis bay dolphin cruise now.

Jervis Bay Wild offers a range of breathtaking Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise options for you to enjoy with family and friends all year-round.

Our Whale and Dolphin Cruises in beautiful Jervis Bay are a fantastic way to experience the excitement of pure nature like never before. We also offer other fun activities throughout the year, which can be found below or on our Cruise Options page.

• 15 Field Street Huskisson NSW 2540
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