Hyams Beach

Hyams Beach, on the shores of Jervis Bay, is famous for having the whitest sand in the world—a claim backed by the Guinness World Records. This dazzling stretch of powdery silica squeaks beneath your feet as you walk, and the crystal-clear turquoise waters are so pristine you can see your toes even at waist depth. It's a serene, postcard-perfect slice of coastal paradise, about a 2.5-hour drive south of Sydney.

Highlights & What to See

• Whitsunday-style sand: The beach itself is the main attraction. Arrive early to claim a spot and experience the surreal, blindingly white sand against the vivid blue water.
• Snorkelling and swimming: The calm, clear waters are ideal for snorkelling—look for stingrays, wobbegongs, and schools of silver fish just offshore.
• Booderee National Park: A short drive away, this park offers Aboriginal cultural sites, coastal walks, and the stunning Murrays Beach and Green Patch.
• Jervis Bay Marine Park: Join a dolphin or whale-watching cruise (May–November for humpbacks) or kayak with seals in the bay's protected waters.
• Hyams Beach Trail: A gentle 1.5 km walk through coastal bushland connecting Hyams Beach to nearby Chinamans Beach and Sailors Beach.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find a full day is perfect: arrive by mid-morning, swim and snorkel until lunch, explore the national park in the afternoon, and stay for a sunset stroll. If you can, book a nearby holiday house for a weekend—this is a place that rewards slow, unhurried visits. Avoid weekends and school holidays if you prefer solitude; the beach gets packed.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sea Cliff Bridge: A dramatic ocean-side drive on the Grand Pacific Drive, with spectacular coastal views and photo stops.
• Nan Tien Temple: Australia's largest Buddhist temple in Wollongong, with serene gardens, a vegetarian restaurant, and a fascinating cultural experience.
• Huskisson: The charming main town of Jervis Bay, with cafés, galleries, and dolphin cruises.
• Booderee National Park: Pristine beaches, Aboriginal rock art, and the historic Cape St George Lighthouse ruins.
• Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, scenic coastal walks, and the historic Kiama Lighthouse.

Please check official sources for current details.