Jervis Bay Marine Park

Jervis Bay Marine Park is a pristine aquatic wonderland on the NSW south coast, renowned for its dazzling white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This protected sanctuary offers some of the best marine experiences in Australia, from swimming with wild dolphins and fur seals to exploring vibrant underwater gardens. Whether you're a snorkeler, diver, kayaker, or simply a beach lover, the park's calm, sheltered bays and abundant marine life create an unforgettable coastal escape.

Highlights & What to See

• Hyams Beach – claimed to have the whitest sand in the world; perfect for swimming, sunbaking, and sunset strolls.
• Booderee National Park – adjacent to the marine park, offering coastal walks, Aboriginal heritage sites, and stunning lookouts like Governor Head.
• Snorkeling & diving at The Gutter – a channel teeming with fish, rays, and occasional wobbegong sharks; part of the Jervis Bay Marine Reserve.
• Dolphin & seal cruises – year-round boat tours that get you up close with resident bottlenose dolphins and playful Australian fur seals.
• Kayaking around Bowen Island – paddle through calm waters past sea caves and seabird colonies; keep an eye out for little penguins.
• Whale watching – from May to November, humpback and southern right whales migrate past the bay; land-based viewing at Cape St George Lighthouse.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a minimum of two full days to experience the marine park's highlights. Spend the first day exploring the beaches and taking a dolphin cruise; the second day is ideal for a snorkel or dive at The Gutter and a walk in Booderee National Park. If you have a third day, add a kayak trip or a whale-watching tour in season. The park is compact enough to cover leisurely without feeling rushed.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Huskisson – the main gateway town with excellent cafés, accommodation, and the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum.
• Vincentia – a laid-back village with a long beachfront walking trail and easy access to Hyams Beach.
• Shoalhaven Heads – a quiet coastal village at the northern entrance to the park, great for birdwatching and fishing.
• Nowra – the regional hub with historic buildings, the Shoalhaven River, and the cool mountain retreat of Kangaroo Valley nearby.
• Ulladulla – a scenic drive south, offering dramatic rock platforms, a working harbour, and the famous Bannisters Point.

Please check official sources for current details.