Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay, on the New South Wales south coast, is a crystalline paradise of white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. This marine playground is home to some of the whitest sands on Earth, a pod of resident bottlenose dolphins, and the protected waters of a marine park that beckons swimmers, kayakers, and sailors. Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive south of Sydney, it’s the quintessential Australian coastal escape.

Highlights & What to See

• Hyams Beach – Stroll along the famously powdery white sand, certified by the Guinness World Records as the whitest in the world. The water here is so clear you can see your toes at chest depth.
• Booderee National Park – Aboriginal-owned and jointly managed, this park protects dramatic sea cliffs, secluded coves like Murrays Beach, and a rich Indigenous heritage. Walk the Booderee Botanic Gardens for a crash course in local flora.
• Jervis Bay Marine Park – Snorkel or dive among subtropical fish and weedy sea dragons at Point Perpendicular or The Gutter. In winter, humpback whales pass by on their annual migration.
• Dolphin & Whale Watching – Join a cruise from Huskisson to see the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins – they’re here year-round and often swim alongside boats.
• Huskisson – The main village, with a laid-back vibe, excellent seafood restaurants, and the Lady Denman Heritage Complex museum.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days allows you to explore the highlights at a relaxed pace. Spend one day on the beaches and a second day in Booderee National Park, with a morning kayak or dolphin cruise. If you have a third day, take a scenic drive to the lighthouse at Point Perpendicular or venture further south to the charming town of Berry. For a quick taste, a day trip from Sydney is possible but feels rushed – stay overnight to really soak up the tranquillity.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Shoalhaven Heads – A quiet coastal village with a beautiful river mouth and walking trails, just north of Jervis Bay.
• Berry – A historic town known for its antique shops, cafes, and the popular Berry Donut Van; a 30-minute drive north.
• Kangaroo Valley – A lush hinterland hamlet with a suspension bridge, canoeing on the Kangaroo River, and a pioneer museum; about 45 minutes inland.
• Nowra – The regional hub for supplies, with a historic main street and the Shoalhaven Zoo; a 20-minute drive north.
• Ulladulla – A fishing port with a working harbour, seafood markets, and a scenic coastal walk; about 45 minutes south.

Please check official sources for current details.