Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay, on the NSW South Coast, is a dazzling stretch of white sand and turquoise water that rivals any tropical paradise. Protected within a marine park, its calm, crystal-clear waters are home to dolphins, seals, and migrating whales. This is a place to slow down, swim, kayak, and simply marvel at one of Australia's most beautiful coastlines.

Highlights & What to See

• Hyams Beach: Claimed to have the whitest sand in the world – sink your toes into its squeaky-clean grains and swim in gin-clear water.
• Booderee National Park: A stunning Aboriginal-owned park with pristine beaches, coastal walks, and the Booderee Botanic Gardens. Look for wallabies at dusk.
• Dolphin & Whale Watching: Spot bottlenose dolphins year-round and humpback whales from May to November on cruises from Huskisson.
• Jervis Bay Marine Park: Snorkel or kayak among fur seals at the Bowen Island colony or explore the seagrass beds where sea dragons hide.
• Cape St George Lighthouse: A short walk leads to the ruins of an 1860s lighthouse with sweeping coastal views and a chance to spot eagles.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can experience Jervis Bay's highlights in two days, but three days allow for a relaxed pace. Spend one day beach-hopping from Hyams to Green Patch, a second kayaking or on a dolphin cruise from Huskisson, and a third exploring Booderee National Park. If you're short on time, a single day focusing on Hyams Beach and a short walk in Booderee still delivers the magic.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Huskisson: The lively seaside village is the gateway to the bay, with great cafés, a historic wooden pier, and whale-watching tours.
• Shoalhaven Heads & Seven Mile Beach: A wilder stretch of coast south of the bay, perfect for a scenic drive and a quiet walk.
• Nowra: The regional hub offers the Shoalhaven River for paddleboarding, the Meroogal historic house, and access to the Kangaroo Valley.
• Kangaroo Valley: A lush, rural hinterland with towering sandstone cliffs, the historic Hampden Bridge, and excellent bushwalking.

Please check official sources for current details.