Things to do in Jervis Bay: a myriad of recreational choices for visitors and residents, like trails for hiking and bushwalking, coastal walks, quaint seaside villages, dining establishments and captivating shores.
The locale is aesthetically magnificent and tends to remain uncluttered, save for school vacation times.
Within Jervis Bay, one can uncover hidden stretches of pale sandy shores and private places for swimming.
Supporting regions impacted by the recent wildfires in Australia helps the local populace and aids the recovery processes for those enduring losses related to individuals, establishments and sources of income.
Activities in Jervis Bay
The pursuits in Jervis Bay, Australia, predominantly centre around two key locations – Huskisson and Hyams Beach, situated at the heart of the bay.
The terrain bends, forming an upper landmass named Currarong and a lower landmass known as Booderee National Park.
Within these trio regions, myriad avenues for fun, leisure and thrill await.
Here’s a rundown of suggested exhilarating activities in Jervis Bay.
Unwind at Hyams Beach
Hyams Beach is the concluding shoreline on the White Sands Walk and boasts the distinction of possessing the globe’s most pristine whitest sand.
While Hyams Beach is celebrated for its powdery sands, activities mainly revolve around bathing and capturing photos.
Yet, one should consider the sheer beauty of Hyams Beach. Even though it draws numerous visitors, its allure aligns perfectly with its esteemed reputation.
For those journeying to Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach remains an essential stop. The 2.8-kilometre expanse of gleaming sand offers a tranquil and intimate escape, distanced from bustling crowds.
Savour a refreshing brew at Jervis Bay Brewing Co
After their adventures in Huskisson, Hyams Beach, and neighbouring locales, travellers can satiate their thirst at Jervis Bay Brewing Co., the area’s most recent and renowned beverage hub.
Managed by a duo of enthusiastic natives, they craft delectable brews along the South Coast. Their beer garden presents a splendid backdrop to revel in a bright day.
Sampling their XPA or stout might reshape your beer appreciation.
The spot buzzes with activity, the tunes resonate well, and they frequently host local food trucks in their garden, dishing out delicious fares and enriching the ambience.
Amidst the 2020 bushfires, Jervis Bay Brewing Co.’s crew joined hands with neighbouring breweries to craft a unique pale ale, dedicating its profits towards aiding bushfire victims.
Emphasising community connection, the venue has swiftly emerged as a favoured haunt for residents and sightseers to relish a beverage.
Stunning coastlines on the White Sands Walk
The White Sands Walk is an essential attraction in Jervis Bay, granting breathtaking vistas of its pristine shores and coming highly endorsed.
This pathway traces the shoreline and meanders through woodlands. En route, you’ll encounter splendid shores like Greenfield Beach and Chinamans Beach.
Each coastline along the White Sands Walk boasts pale sand and crystalline azure waters.
Given the bay’s sheltered aspect, the wave action remains gentle, rendering these shores perfect for bathing, unwinding, and engaging with youngsters.
Beyond the White Sands Walk, Jervis Bay showcases several other magnificent shores with spectacular views, including Murrays Beach, Caves Beach, Nelsons Beach and Honeymoon Bay Beach.
For an encompassing tour of Jervis Bay’s premier shores, the White Sands Walk comes as a top suggestion.
Try Kayaking
An alternative aquatic activity to indulge in while at Jervis Bay is kayaking.
Due to its lowered centre of gravity design, kayaking tends to be more stable than paddleboarding.
For pristine waters and picturesque views, Currambene Creek in Jervis Bay stands out as an excellent choice for kayakers.
Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle not only provides paddleboards but also offers kayaks for rent, including the special glass-bottomed ones that allow for a clearer view beneath while you paddle.
Go camping
For nature enthusiasts, camping is a popular activity on the South Coast.
Numerous campgrounds in Jervis Bay offer ample space and grassy areas for tent setup or van parking.
Some campgrounds offer toilets, showers, kitchens, picnic tables and barbeque stations.
The popular campgrounds in Jervis Bay include Bristol Point Camping Ground, Green Patch Campground and Honeymoon Bay Campground.
Cave Beach Camping is a popular choice for those who prefer minimal camping gear, as the campground is only accessible by foot through the bush. Camper vans are not permitted.
Cave Beach is a less popular, rugged gem perfect for travellers seeking a more secluded experience.
If you do not have camping gear, you also have the option to rent a caravan at Bream Beach Caravan Park or Jervis Bay Caravan Park.
Experience Whale Watching
For those keen on witnessing whales without plunging into chilly waters, there’s the alternative to reserving a whale-watching excursion.
Jervis Bay stands as a prominent spot in Australia for watching humpback whales as they migrate from the chilly Antarctic regions to the temperate waters up north. Between May and November, these majestic creatures frequently journey past, with some even venturing into the bay.
Multiple whale-watching outfits operate here, but our recommendation is Dolphin Watch Cruises.
This cruise operator in Jervis Bay has the longest-standing service record and partners intimately with the marine reserve to oversee and safeguard the region’s marine inhabitants.
We embarked on a 2-hour whale-watching voyage and spotted several humpbacks frolicking near Point Perpendicular, as well as bottlenose dolphins closer to the coastline.
The onboard experts possess vast experience and profound knowledge, showcasing immense enthusiasm for their profession.
Travellers can choose either the more significant, steadier vessel or the swifter jetboat, both emphasising the well-being of marine species.
Explore the streets of Huskisson
If you’re staying in Jervis Bay for the weekend, Huskisson is one of the main places to visit that you’ll likely come across.
Exploring the attractions in Huskisson is a popular way to spend time in Jervis Bay. There are various amenities such as nice cafes, a bookshop, a cinema, a spa centre, and essential services like food stores and a post office.
Huskisson is a convenient place for groceries and supplies while camping, although it can be slightly pricey. For more affordable options, the enormous complex on the main road near Vincentia is a good choice.
If it happens to rain, there are various entertainment options available in Huskisson, a centrally located hub for all the top attractions in Jervis Bay.
Visit the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum
Those who are intrigued by history or keen to acquire knowledge might deem this museum a valuable visit.
Situated in Huskisson, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum showcases an array of displays, images, and relics that narrate the progression of the maritime realm.
Patrons can observe ancient maritime vessels, ships, and tools that have historical significance.
Besides, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum offers a boutique shop and is complemented by a serene garden accentuated by a pond and a promenade.
Hire a Bike
A delightful method to discover Jervis Bay is on two wheels.
Given the compact nature of its towns and the leisurely pace of automobile traffic, Jervis Bay has a reputation for being conducive to walkers and cyclists.
Drop by Jervis Bay Bike Hire, situated in the Vincentia township. This family-run establishment is a favourite among residents for procuring top-notch bicycles, ensuring a memorable experience in Jervis Bay.
Visit the Booderee Botanic Gardens
Within Jervis Bay’s Booderee National Park, besides renowned beaches such as Hyams Beach, Greenfield Beach, and Murrays Beach, the botanic gardens stand out as a significant attraction.
Those with a passion for flora will thoroughly enjoy their time here.
Visitors can gain insights into the indigenous plants and their significance to the Koori community. Moreover, surrounding the gardens are nature paths, offering a delightful opportunity for a stroll.
For those in Jervis Bay wanting a close encounter with nature without the commitment of camping or deep forest exploration, touring the botanic gardens is a favoured choice.
Dive into the experience of Stand Up Paddle Boarding
For enthusiasts desiring a tranquil day atop the water, Jervis Bay is celebrated for its stand-up paddleboarding.
This aqua recreation is approachable and apt for family members of all ages. Paddleboards are constructed for steadiness, enabling individuals to sail smoothly across the water, no matter their physical prowess.
The ambient conditions of Jervis Bay make it an impeccable locale for paddleboarding, given its pristine and calm waters.
For those interested in rentals, Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle is a top-choice provider in the region.
For novices or those who appreciate guided excursions, instructional sessions and explorative journeys are provided to highlight the prime locales.
Travellers are treated to a distinctive vantage point as they glide alongside Jervis Bay’s captivating coastlines.
Reserve Your Spot on a Dolphin-Viewing Cruise
The waters off the coast of New South Wales teem with dolphins. While there are times you can glimpse them from the coastline, the most assured way to see these dolphins is through a dedicated boat journey.
There’s a 1.5-hour boat excursion on offer, where you can witness pods of dolphins frolicking in the waves.
The knowledgeable tour guides from Jervis Bay share intriguing details about the bay, granting visitors a picturesque perspective of the bay from atop the water.
Trek to Gosangs Tunnel
For hiking enthusiasts or adventure seekers in Jervis Bay, one of the suggested outdoor activities is to venture to the Currarong region and trek towards the Gosangs Tunnel.
Your starting point will be Abraham’s Bosom Reserve in Currarong, where you trace the pathway skirting the coast.
This trail is marked by its striking and craggy terrains, offering sights of fascinating natural rock formations and the tranquil Mermaid’s Inlet. Your journey culminates with a chance to traverse Gosangs Tunnel, extending around 20 meters.
The entire trek is about 1.5 hours long, covering just shy of 5 km. It’s manageable, but the rocky patches might render it less ideal for young adventurers.
Explore Point Perpendicular Lighthouse
Nestled at the utmost southern end of the Beecroft Peninsula, the upper arm of Jervis Bay, the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse seems to hover over the vast ocean expanse.
Often referred to as the Turn-Of-The-Century Lighthouse, its inaugural illumination was in 1899.
To access the lighthouse in Currarong, navigate Currarong Road and subsequently make a right turn onto Lighthouse Road. Prepare for a roughly 7km journey on a gravelly, unsealed path.
Once there, you’re rewarded with mesmerising vistas of the sprawling ocean views and shoreline.
The seaside precipice, rising to a majestic 90m, ranks as the state’s second tallest. Occasionally, one might even spot whales gracefully cruising by.
Explore Booderee National Park
For those wondering about attractions in Jervis Bay, a trip to Booderee National Park is highly recommended. Nestled on a peninsula, it presents a plethora of engaging and fun activities.
Attractions include the historic Cape St. George Lighthouse, forest trails for hiking, opportunities to observe native kangaroos, and sunbathing on amazing beaches like Iluka Beach, Caves Beach, or Murrays Beach.
Moreover, the park boasts unique geological wonders like the Scottish Rocks and Hole In The Wall.
Admission to Booderee National Park costs $13 per vehicle for two-day access, which is a reasonable price for experiencing one of Jervis Bay’s premier destinations.
Engage in Bird-Watching
Jervis Bay not only houses marine life like dolphins, seals, and whales but also boasts a rich diversity of local birds.
For those passionate about birds or keen on wildlife photography, the bushlands offer a canvas of colourful avian wonders.
Booderee National Park stands out for its birdwatching prospects. Guests can navigate various footpaths stretching across the coastline and deeper into the forest. The visitor centre can provide insights into preferred pathways for the day.
Dawn is often the best moment for birdwatching unless owls are on your checklist.
Among the many birds, Jervis Bay is a haven for albatrosses, rainbow lorikeets, robins and wattlebirds.
Dive alongside seals or whales
A unique offering in Jervis Bay lets enthusiasts swim near seals or whales in their natural habitat.
Dive Jervis Bay, a renowned local dive establishment, extends a range of diving experiences and interactions with marine creatures tailored to diverse tastes and inclinations.
Their online portal highlights two exclusive tours: one to swim with seals and the other with whales. Additionally, they provide scuba training for those keen to explore deeper.
With its esteemed standing and an array of diving packages in Jervis Bay, this firm is worth exploring for unforgettable underwater escapades.
Stroll along the mangrove boardwalk
Emphasising the region’s ecological richness, this boardwalk is a favourite amongst families visiting Jervis Bay.
Besides being a prime spot for bird enthusiasts, it offers glimpses of mangroves and the variety of crabs and fish that call this habitat home.
The trail commences behind the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, winding its way for about 1.5 km along the Currambene Creek.
Try Snorkelling
Snorkelling is a favoured and delightful pursuit when touring any beach within Jervis Bay.
The waters are usually transparent, showcasing aquatic life and underwater vegetation.
Sites like Jervis Bay Marine Park and Booderee National Park have numerous pristine beaches ideal for snorkelling.
The previously mentioned SUP and kayak outlets, along with several travel agencies in Jervis Bay, offer snorkelling equipment
Enjoy the Dusk
Wrapping up a day filled with sun-soaked adventures and oceanic wonders with a serene sunset is delightful.
A cherished pastime in Jervis Bay is to behold the sunset hues, perhaps with a refreshing drink or the company of someone special.
Hyams Beach and Point Perpendicular Lighthouse are celebrated for their enchanting sunset panoramas.
Nestled near Vincentia, Plantation Point serves as a scenic promontory situated between Nelsons Beach to the south and Barfleur Beach to the north. This perfect spot offers a mesmerising vantage point for dusk watchers.
Jervis Bay Exploration Guide
If you’ve had the chance, perhaps you’ve savoured the beauty of Greenfield Beach, trekked the White Sands Walk, visited Jervis Bay Brewing Company, admired the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse, and explored other highlights of Jervis Bay.
Once you’re acquainted with Jervis Bay’s notable sites, it’s time to ponder over lodging and culinary choices.
Staying in Jervis Bay
While Jervis Bay presents a spectrum of lodging solutions, it’s worth noting that there aren’t hostels catering to solo adventurers or backpackers.
For those on a tighter budget, Jervis Bay boasts several motels providing wallet-friendly stays.
Pitching a tent is the most economical alternative if you have camping essentials.
For those inclined towards luxury, opulent hotels and resorts beckon, providing a lavish escape to relish the scenic beauty.
A diverse array of homes and apartments are up for grabs, letting tourists relish the ambience of a homely abode.
Dining in Jervis Bay
Considering Jervis Bay’s emphasis on outdoor adventures, gastronomic choices might seem limited.
Yet, in the settlements of Huskisson and Vincentia, a handful of eateries and cafes dish out classic Australian fare at competitive rates.
The best time to visit the region, especially if you’re joining Grampians hiking tours, depends on what you want to do. Spring and autumn are great for outdoor adventures with mild temperatures and wildflowers. If you want to see the panoramic views and do the hard hikes, visit in the cooler months to avoid the summer heat. The Grampians Peaks Trail, Mount William and Boroka Lookout have great views all year round, while Lake Wartook and MacKenzie Falls are at their best in the wet season.
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