Jervis Bay

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
23/08/2025
Explore the pristine white sands and clear waters of Jervis Bay, perfect for a tropical getaway.
Laura Perret, Pexels

Jervis Bay is a captivating coastal destination celebrated for its brilliant white-sand beaches and remarkably clear turquoise waters, providing an ideal retreat for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility. It is a favored location for visitors interested in pristine marine environments and diverse wildlife.

The primary hub for socializing is Huskisson, where cafes, shops, and restaurants can be found, alongside local breweries offering a relaxed atmosphere. While there are options for dining and drinks, the area maintains a generally peaceful and low-key social scene.

Top 5 Things to do in Jervis Bay

Visitors can immerse themselves in white-sand beaches, vibrant marine life encounters, and scenic national park adventures.

1. White Sands Walk and Hyams Beach Exploration

The White Sands Walk is a picturesque coastal track that guides visitors along some of Jervis Bay's most stunning beaches, including the renowned Hyams Beach. This easy walk showcases dazzling white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It offers numerous opportunities for swimming in the calm bay. The walk can be enjoyed as a shorter stroll or extended by combining it with the Scribbly Gum Track, allowing for a loop through coastal woodlands. It is particularly rewarding to stop at Chinamans or Greenfield Beach for a tranquil break.

Cost: Access to the beaches and walk is free. Parking at Hyams Beach village can be limited, so an alternative is to park at Greenfield Beach and begin the walk from there.

Transport: From Huskisson, local bus services operate to areas near Hyams Beach (e.g., Frederick St After Sutton St or Huskisson Public School, Watt St), costing approximately $1 and taking 13-20 minutes. Services may operate once or three times daily, Monday to Friday. Taxis are also available, with a ride from Huskisson to Hyams Beach costing around $29-40 and taking about 10 minutes. Driving from Huskisson to Hyams Beach takes approximately 10 minutes.

2. Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

Cruising the protected waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park offers a chance to observe pods of resident bottlenose dolphins year-round. During the migration season, from May to November, visitors can witness majestic humpback whales as they travel along the coast. These cruises provide informative commentary on the marine life and the bay's natural history, often venturing past significant landmarks like Point Perpendicular. Some tours also offer a 'boom netting' experience, where a net is deployed from the back of the boat, allowing passengers to cool off in the water while cruising.

Cost: Dolphin watching cruises typically cost around AUD 42-54 for children and AUD 85 for adults. Whale watching tours range from approximately AUD 45-75 per person.

Transport: Most cruises depart from Huskisson, which is the central hub of Jervis Bay. The departure points are often near the Portside Cafe or Huskisson public wharf, easily accessible within the village.

3. Explore Booderee National Park

Located on the southern rim of Jervis Bay, Booderee National Park is jointly managed by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community and offers a rich blend of natural and cultural experiences. Within the park, visitors can discover diverse bushwalks, spot native wildlife such as kangaroos and various birdlife, and relax on pristine beaches like Murrays Beach or Cave Beach. The Aboriginal-owned Booderee Botanic Gardens, also within the park, provide insight into local flora and traditional uses. The Cape St George Lighthouse offers historical context and panoramic views.

Cost: Entry to Booderee National Park costs $13 per vehicle and is valid for 48 hours.

Transport: Booderee National Park is approximately a 20-minute drive from Huskisson. A car is recommended for exploring the park, as it is expansive and requires driving to various points of interest.

4. Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding in the Bay

Paddling across the calm, clear turquoise waters of Jervis Bay provides an intimate way to experience its stunning coastline and potentially encounter marine life. Renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard allows for independent exploration of secluded beaches, hidden coves, and the tranquil Currambene Creek, which winds through mangroves. Guided tours are also available, often including stops at white-sand beaches for refreshments. This activity is suitable for various experience levels, though participants should be able to swim confidently.

Cost: Self-guided double sea kayak hire can cost around US$48. Guided five-hour kayak tours may be approximately $145, including equipment, morning tea, and national park fees. Single and double kayak hire rates vary by duration.

Transport: Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals and tours typically depart from Huskisson, which is centrally located and offers easy access to the bay and Currambene Creek.

5. Snorkelling and Diving in Jervis Bay Marine Park

The Jervis Bay Marine Park is a thriving underwater world, boasting over 210 reef fish species, as well as sharks, rays, cuttlefish, and various marine mammals. Snorkelling in the clear, temperate waters allows visitors to discover vibrant shallow reefs rich with life. For a deeper immersion, guided diving tours explore underwater caves and sites where seals and stingrays are often observed. Guided snorkelling tours often include equipment hire, safety briefings, and insights from marine experts.

Cost: Guided beach snorkelling tours typically cost around $85-95 per person for a 2-3 hour experience, with equipment hire potentially incurring an extra cost of approximately $65. Guided dive tours can range from $200-265, including equipment.

Transport: Snorkelling and diving tours usually depart from Huskisson. Many local operators offer trips and equipment hire from this central location.

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