A travellers guide to Jervis Bay

Let us transport you to a paradise like no other. Where the sand is the whitest (and softest) in the world, where the marine life captivates the locals and visitors, and you can camp amongst the ancient bushland of Booderee National Park. If you haven’t figured it out yet we’re talking about then Jervis Bay is an absolute must-do located on the southeast coastline of New South Wales.

Three hours south of Sydney, it’s worth the road trip times 10 and when you’re planning your holiday to this heavenly bay, make sure to add a few days to your itinerary or you’ll be kicking yourself as you wave goodbye.

Not the relax-on-the-beach kind of family? No problem, we’re sharing all the best tips on what Jervis Bay has to offer and more.

About Jervis Bay

Stretching across 102km², Jervis Bay and its small-town welcome travellers looking for a blissed-out summer holiday getaway. Its history dates back over 20,000 years ago. Both its national park and marine park have been protected to keep the wildlife and unreal scenic views in perfect conditions for centuries to come. The sand of Jervis Bay has actually been recorded as the whitest sand in the world. Enough of a reason to visit on its own, but what lies around the sand is truly the best part.

Planning your summer getaway to Jervis Bay

Roll around the pure white sand all day or jam-pack your day with crazy good activities while visiting Jervis Bay during your holidays.

Get in the water

Yes, swim in the bay during your stay but we will encourage you to go a little further. Book a kayak or SUP tour for ocean fun for the entire family. If you’d rather explore on your own, hire either of the two and head out. Ever dreamed of swimming with whales and dolphins? Now is your chance with local trips heading out from Jervis Bay. If you’re not keen to get wet, book a scenic boat cruise instead. Fish, snorkel, scuba – the available sea activities are endless.

Booderee National Park

Bushland, gardens, and coastal cliff-top views are all waiting for you in Booderee National Park. Head out to Cape St George Lighthouse and learn the history of this iconic point and possibly catch a whale migration while you’re there. Hike to unique beaches like Cave Beach, follow the nature trail or pack a bag for an all-day tour around Steamers Head.

Magic in the ocean

Have you ever seen the ocean glow neon at night? Well now is your chance. Bioluminescent plankton is known to light up the coast when the sky goes dark. It is a truly mind-blowing experience that happens often in spring and summer.

Beach options galore

Get a choice of beach options in Jervis Bay. Throw a family BBQ at Greenfields Beach which offers free gas BBQs, a grassy area with picnic tables, toilets, and outdoor showers. Huskisson Beach is a great option if you’re bringing a four-legged friend along, just stick to the off-lead times to avoid a fine. Hyams Beach is the most famous in the region, but if it's too busy head to Blenheim or Murrays. Moona Moona is a great choice for families with shallow swimming spots for the little ones.

Camping in paradise

To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Jervis Bay, you must camp for a few nights in the region.

Booderee National Park

If you’re heading to Jervis Bay with family for the summer holidays, be sure to book your site in advance as the sites often book out in Booderee National Park. Choose from Green Patch (drive-in) or Bristol Point (walk-in) campsites in the park. Both are unpowered and start at $36/night for weekdays and $51/night for weekends and include basic amenities such as toilets, showers, freshwater, and wood fireplaces.

Honeymoon Bay

Easily one of the best campgrounds in the country, Honeymoon Bay camping requires a bit more effort, but its relativity to the dreamy crystal-clear water is worth it. Open only on weekends and during New South Wales school and public holidays, these sites are first-come, first-serve basis. Bring cash and pay $15/night (for two people, $5 per extra person) at the Visits Centre between 1-3pm. For summer holidays you can apply for allocated sites through the ballot system, open July 1 to August 31. Also, you’ll need to bring your own water and gas stove as they are not available on site. Portaloos are dotted through the campsite and there is a main picnic area.

Other campsites around the bay include Huskisson Beach Holiday Haven and Jervis Bay Holiday Park for around $50/night with power. Plenty more campgrounds are scattered across the Shoalhaven region within a short drive of dazzling Jervis Bay.

Explore your campervan and caravan options around Jervis Bay here and get ready for one of the most memorable road trips in Australia.