Booderee National Park

On the southern tip of the Jervis Bay Territory, Booderee National Park is a stunning Aboriginal-owned reserve where white-sand beaches meet turquoise waters, and bushland shelters rich wildlife. The name 'Booderee' means 'bay of plenty' in the local Dhurga language, and it delivers on that promise with some of the purest sands and clearest waters on the New South Wales coast. This is a place to swim, snorkel, walk, and connect with a landscape that has been cared for by its traditional custodians for millennia.

Highlights & What to See

• Murrays Beach – A crescent of powdery white sand lapped by crystalline water, often rated among Australia's best beaches. Perfect for swimming and snorkeling straight off the sand.
• Steamers Beach – Accessible via a short walk through coastal heath, this wilder stretch faces the open ocean and is a prime spot for whale watching (May–November).
• Booderee Botanic Gardens – Australia’s only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens, showcasing native plants used for food, medicine, and tools. The self-guided walk is rich in cultural interpretation.
• Cape St George Lighthouse ruins – A short walk leads to the shell of a 19th-century lighthouse, with sweeping views over Jervis Bay and the chance to spot dolphins and seabirds.
• Snorkeling at Green Patch or Honeymoon Bay – Calm, sheltered coves with seagrass beds and rocky reefs; you can often see blue gropers, stingrays, and sea stars just metres from shore.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give Booderee at least a full day to experience its highlights properly. Arrive early to secure a spot at Murrays Beach, then spend the morning snorkeling and the afternoon exploring the botanic gardens and lighthouse walk. If you have a second day, add a bushwalk (the 7 km Telegraph Creek track is excellent) or a kayak paddle in the bay. The park is compact enough that you can see the main sights in a day, but the relaxed vibe invites you to slow down and linger.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jervis Bay Village – A tiny settlement within the park with a general store and basic accommodation; a convenient base for multi-day visits.
• Huskisson – The lively hub of Jervis Bay, 20 minutes north, with dolphin-watching cruises, cafés, and the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum.
• Hyams Beach – Famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world; combine with a visit to the nearby Booderee Botanic Gardens.
• Nowra – The gateway town to the Shoalhaven region, 40 minutes north, offering river cruises, the Shoalhaven Zoo, and the historic Meroogal house.
• Cave Beach & Lake Conjola – 30 minutes south, these quieter spots offer excellent fishing, swimming, and coastal walks away from the crowds.

Please check official sources for current details.