Jervis Bay is a coastal paradise in New South Wales, Australia, known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant wildlife. Whether you want to relax on the shore, explore the marine park, or immerse yourself in nature, Jervis Bay has something for everyone. In this guide, we will show you the best of Jervis Bay, from its history and culture to its attractions and activities. You will also find useful tips and information on how to get there, when to visit, and where to stay. Read on to find out why Jervis Bay is one of Australia’s most amazing destinations.
Jervis Bay is located on the south coast of New South Wales, about 200 kilometres (124 miles) south of Sydney and 150 kilometres (93 miles) east of Canberra. It is part of the Jervis Bay Territory, a federal enclave administered by the Australian government. Jervis Bay is surrounded by the Jervis Bay Marine Park, a protected area that covers 210 square kilometres (81 square miles) of ocean and coastline. Jervis Bay is also adjacent to the Booderee National Park, a stunning and diverse national park that is owned and managed by the local Indigenous community. Jervis Bay has several towns and villages along its coast, such as Callala Bay, Huskisson, Vincentia, Hyams Beach, and Jervis Bay Village.
Beaches
Jervis Bay is famous for its beaches, which are among the best in the world. The beaches in Jervis Bay have the whitest sand you will ever see, and the clearest water you will ever swim in. The beaches are also uncrowded and unspoilt, offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Here are some of the beaches you should not miss in Jervis Bay:
Hyams Beach
Hyams Beach is the world’s whitest sand beach, according to the Guinness Book of Records. This beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing, as it has calm and shallow waters, and stunning views of the bay. Hyams Beach is also a great place to spot dolphins, whales, and seals, especially during the migration season. Hyams Beach is located in the southern part of Jervis Bay, and has a small village with a cafe and a general store.
Murrays Beach
Murrays Beach is a secluded and tranquil beach, ideal for relaxing, picnicking, and spotting wildlife. This beach is surrounded by native bushland, and has a rocky headland that provides shelter from the wind and waves. Murrays Beach is also a good spot for snorkelling and diving, as it has a variety of marine life, such as fish, sea stars, and sea urchins. Murrays Beach is located in the Booderee National Park, and has a campground nearby.
Green Patch Beach
Green Patch Beach is a picturesque and pristine beach, surrounded by native bushland and kangaroos. This beach is perfect for snorkelling, diving, and fishing, as it has a coral reef and a shipwreck that attract many underwater creatures. Green Patch Beach is also a good spot for camping, as it has a campground with facilities and amenities. Green Patch Beach is located in the Booderee National Park, and has a walking track that leads to other beaches and attractions.
Blenheim Beach
Blenheim Beach is a scenic and sheltered beach, perfect for snorkelling, diving, and fishing. This beach has a rocky reef that hosts a variety of marine life, such as sea dragons, octopuses, and cuttlefish. Blenheim Beach is also a good spot for walking, as it has a walking track that connects to other beaches and viewpoints. Blenheim Beach is located in the northern part of Jervis Bay, and has a picnic area and a toilet.
Chinamans Beach
Chinamans Beach is a long and wide beach, great for walking, surfing, and kite surfing. This beach has soft and fine sand, and moderate waves that are suitable for beginners and experts alike. Chinamans Beach is also a good spot for birdwatching, as it has a wetland and a lagoon that attract many waterbirds. Chinamans Beach is located in the northern part of Jervis Bay, and has a car park and a toilet.
Jervis Bay has many more beaches to explore, each with its own charm and character. You can spend hours or days enjoying the sun, sand, and sea in Jervis Bay, and never get bored. Jervis Bay is truly a beach lover’s paradise.
National Park
Jervis Bay is not only blessed with beautiful beaches, but also with a stunning and diverse national park. The Booderee National Park is a 6,379-hectare (15,763-acre) park that covers the southern part of Jervis Bay and the surrounding land. The park is owned and managed by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, who have a strong connection to the land and the sea. The park is home to a variety of habitats, such as forests, heathlands, wetlands, and mangroves, as well as a rich and unique flora and fauna. Here are some of the aspects of the national park that you should not miss in Jervis Bay:
Botanic Gardens
The Booderee Botanic Gardens are the only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in Australia, and they showcase the native plants and animals of the region. The gardens have several walking trails that take you through different zones, such as the rainforest, the woodland, and the coastal. Along the way, you can learn about the traditional uses and meanings of the plants, as well as the stories and legends of the Aboriginal people. The gardens are also a haven for wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, possums, and birds.
Walking Tracks
The Booderee National Park has a variety of walking tracks, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer scenic views and historical sites. Some of the walking tracks that you can try are:
Telegraph Creek Nature Trail: A 2.4-kilometre (1.5-mile) loop trail that takes you through a forest of eucalyptus, banksia, and ferns, and along a creek that was once used as a telegraph line.
Munyunga Waraga Dhugan: A 5.4-kilometre (3.4-mile) loop trail that takes you to the highest point in the park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the bay and the ocean, and learn about the Aboriginal culture and history of the area.
Cape St George Lighthouse: A 3-kilometre (1.9-mile) return trail that takes you to the ruins of the Cape St George Lighthouse, which was built in 1860 and demolished in 1922. The lighthouse was notorious for its many shipwrecks and tragedies, and is now a heritage site.
Camping
The Booderee National Park has a range of camping options, from basic to luxury, that provide a memorable and immersive experience. Some of the camping options that you can choose from are:
Green Patch Campground: A campground with 100 sites, suitable for tents, caravans, and campervans. The campground has facilities such as toilets, showers, barbecues, picnic tables, and drinking water. The campground is close to the Green Patch Beach and the walking tracks.
Bristol Point Campground: A campground with 32 sites, suitable for tents only. The campground has facilities such as toilets, showers, barbecues, picnic tables, and drinking water. The campground is close to the Bristol Point Beach and the walking tracks.
Cave Beach Campground: A campground with 18 sites, suitable for tents only. The campground has facilities such as toilets, barbecues, picnic tables, and drinking water. The campground is close to the Cave Beach and the walking tracks.
Paperbark Camp: A glamping site with 13 luxury tents, each with a private ensuite, a veranda, and a fireplace. The site has facilities such as a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, and a library. The site is close to the Huskisson town and the Jervis Bay Marine Park.
The Booderee National Park is a place where you can connect with nature and culture, and discover the beauty and diversity of Jervis Bay. The park is open all year round, but you need to pay an entry fee and book your camping in advance. You can also join guided tours and activities, such as birdwatching, fishing, and cultural workshops, to enhance your experience. The park is a place of respect and conservation, so make sure you follow the rules and regulations, and leave no trace behind.
Wildlife
Jervis Bay is a wildlife wonderland, where you can encounter a variety of animals, both on land and in the water. Jervis Bay is home to a large and friendly population of bottlenose dolphins, who often swim and play in the bay. You can also see humpback and southern right whales, who migrate and breach in the ocean from May to November. If you are lucky, you might even spot Australian fur seals, who rest and frolic on the rocks, or little penguins, who nest and waddle on the shore. Jervis Bay is also a habitat for the elusive and fascinating sea dragon, a seahorse-like creature with leafy appendages. On land, you can see eastern grey kangaroos, who graze and hop in the bushland, and a diverse and colourful array of birds, from parrots and cockatoos to pelicans and eagles. Here are some of the types of wildlife that you should not miss in Jervis Bay:
Dolphins
Dolphins are one of the most popular and beloved attractions of Jervis Bay. The bay has a resident population of about 80 bottlenose dolphins, who are curious and playful, and often approach boats and swimmers. You can see dolphins all year round in Jervis Bay, and the best way to see them is to join a dolphin watching cruise, which departs daily from Huskisson. You can also try kayaking, sailing, or stand-up paddle boarding, which are more eco-friendly and quieter ways of getting close to the dolphins. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even swim with the dolphins, which is an unforgettable and exhilarating experience.
Whales
Whales are another amazing and awe-inspiring sight in Jervis Bay. The bay is a hotspot for whale watching, as it is part of the migration route of humpback and southern right whales, who travel between Antarctica and the tropics every year. You can see whales in Jervis Bay from May to November, and the best way to see them is to join a whale watching cruise, which departs daily from Huskisson. You can also see whales from the shore, especially from the Cape St George Lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the ocean. If you are feeling brave, you can even swim with the whales, which is a rare and thrilling opportunity.
Seals
Seals are a rare and adorable encounter in Jervis Bay. The bay has a small colony of Australian fur seals, who live on the rocks near Bowen Island, which is part of the Booderee National Park. The seals are usually seen resting and sunbathing on the rocks, but they also like to swim and play in the water. You can see seals in Jervis Bay from June to August, and the best way to see them is to join a seal watching cruise, which departs from Huskisson. You can also try snorkelling or diving with the seals, which is a fun and interactive experience.
Penguins
Penguins are a delightful and surprising discovery in Jervis Bay. The bay has a small population of little penguins, also known as fairy penguins, who are the smallest and cutest species of penguins in the world. The penguins live on the shore of Bowen Island, which is part of the Booderee National Park, and they come out of the water at dusk to return to their nests. You can see penguins in Jervis Bay from September to March, and the best way to see them is to join a penguin watching cruise, which departs from Huskisson. You can also see penguins from the shore, but you need to be quiet and respectful, as they are very shy and sensitive.
Sea Dragons
Sea dragons are a fascinating and elusive creature in Jervis Bay. The bay has a population of weedy sea dragons, who are related to seahorses, but have leafy appendages that help them camouflage in the seaweed. The sea dragons are very hard to spot, as they blend in with their environment, and they are very slow and gentle. You can see sea dragons in Jervis Bay all year round, and the best way to see them is to join a snorkelling or diving tour, which departs from Huskisson. You can also try looking for them yourself, but you need to be patient and careful, as they are very fragile and protected.
Kangaroos
Kangaroos are a common and iconic sight in Jervis Bay. The bay has a large number of eastern grey kangaroos, who live in the bushland and grassland of the Booderee National Park and the surrounding areas. The kangaroos are usually seen grazing and hopping in the morning and evening, and they are very friendly and tame. You can see kangaroos in Jervis Bay all year round, and the best way to see them is to visit the Green Patch Campground, the Botanic Gardens, or the Murrays Beach, where they often hang out. You can also try feeding them, but you need to be gentle and respectful, and only give them natural food, such as grass or leaves.
Birds
Birds are a diverse and colourful attraction in Jervis Bay. The bay has a variety of birds, from parrots and cockatoos to pelicans and eagles, who live in the different habitats of the region, such as the forests, heathlands, wetlands, and mangroves. The birds are usually seen flying and singing in the sky, and they are very beautiful and noisy. You can see birds in Jervis Bay all year round, and the best way to see them is to join a birdwatching tour, which departs from Huskisson. You can also try looking for them yourself, but you need to be quiet and observant, and use binoculars or a camera.
Jervis Bay is a place where you can experience the wonders of nature and wildlife, and have unforgettable encounters with amazing animals. Jervis Bay is a place where you can appreciate and respect the diversity and beauty of life. Jervis Bay is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.
Things to Do
Jervis Bay is not only a place to see and admire, but also a place to do and enjoy. The bay has a plethora of activities and experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences, from relaxing and leisurely to adventurous and exhilarating. Whether you want to cruise on the water, dive under the water, or walk on the land, Jervis Bay has something for you. Here are some of the things to do that you should not miss in Jervis Bay:
Bioluminescent Plankton
One of the most magical and mesmerizing things to do in Jervis Bay is to see the bioluminescent plankton, which are microscopic organisms that glow in the dark. The plankton are usually found in the bay during the summer months, especially on warm and calm nights. The plankton emit a blue-green light when they are disturbed by movement, creating a sparkling effect in the water. You can see the plankton from the shore, or you can join a kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding tour, which will take you to the best spots to see the plankton. The tours are operated by friendly and enthusiastic guides, who will provide you with equipment, instruction, and assistance. The tours are suitable for all levels of experience, and they depart from Huskisson. The tours last for about two hours, and they include snacks and drinks. The tours are a magical and romantic way of enjoying the night sky and the water in Jervis Bay.
Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises
One of the most popular and exciting things to do in Jervis Bay is to join a dolphin and whale watching cruise, which will take you on a journey to see the amazing marine mammals that inhabit the bay and the ocean. You will have the chance to see bottlenose dolphins, who are friendly and playful, and often approach the boats and swimmers. You will also have the opportunity to see humpback and southern right whales, who are majestic and awe-inspiring, and often breach and splash in the water. The cruises are operated by professional and knowledgeable guides, who will provide you with interesting and informative commentary, as well as tips and safety instructions. The cruises are suitable for all ages and abilities, and they depart daily from Huskisson. The cruises last for about two to three hours, and they include snacks and drinks. The cruises are a thrilling and unforgettable experience that you will remember for a long time.
Diving and Snorkelling
Another fun and adventurous thing to do in Jervis Bay is to join a diving or snorkelling tour, which will take you on an exploration of the underwater world of Jervis Bay Marine Park. The marine park is a protected area that covers 210 square kilometres (81 square miles) of ocean and coastline, and it is home to a variety of marine life, such as fish, sea stars, sea urchins, octopuses, cuttlefish, sea dragons, and more. The marine park has several dive and snorkel sites, each with its own features and attractions, such as coral reefs, shipwrecks, caves, and walls. The tours are operated by experienced and certified instructors, who will provide you with equipment, training, and guidance. The tours are suitable for beginners and experts alike, and they depart daily from Huskisson. The tours last for about three to four hours, and they include snacks and drinks. The tours are a fun and interactive way of discovering the beauty and diversity of Jervis Bay’s marine life.
Swimming with Whales and Seals
One of the most unique and exhilarating things to do in Jervis Bay is to join a swimming with whales and seals tour, which will take you on an encounter with the amazing animals that live in the bay and the ocean. You will have the opportunity to swim with whales, who are gentle and curious, and often come close to the swimmers. You will also have the chance to swim with seals, who are playful and adorable, and often swim and dive with the swimmers. The tours are operated by qualified and respectful guides, who will provide you with equipment, briefing, and supervision. The tours are suitable for confident and adventurous swimmers, and they depart from Huskisson. The tours last for about four to five hours, and they include snacks and drinks. The tours are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you will never forget.
Paperbark Camp
One of the most luxurious and eco-friendly things to do in Jervis Bay is to stay at the Paperbark Camp, which is a glamping site that offers a romantic and relaxing escape. The camp has 13 luxury tents, each with a private ensuite, a veranda, and a fireplace. The tents are nestled among the paperbark trees, creating a sense of privacy and serenity. The camp has facilities such as a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, and a library, where you can enjoy delicious and local dishes, drinks, and books. The camp is close to the Huskisson town and the Jervis Bay Marine Park, where you can access the beaches, the shops, and the activities. The camp is open all year round, but you need to book your stay in advance. The camp is a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature and your loved ones.
White Sands Walk
One of the most scenic and easy things to do in Jervis Bay is to do the White Sands Walk, which is a walking track that takes you along the coast, passing through some of the best beaches in Jervis Bay. The walk starts from the Greenfield Beach picnic area, and ends at the Hyams Beach village. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of the white sand, the turquoise water, and the green bushland. You can also stop at the beaches, such as Chinamans Beach, Seamans Beach, and Hyams Beach, where you can swim, snorkel, or relax. The walk is about 2.5 kilometres (1.6 miles) long, and it takes about an hour to complete. The walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and it is accessible by car or bus. The walk is a great way to experience the beauty and charm of Jervis Bay’s beaches.
Jervis Bay has many more things to do to suit your interests and preferences, each with its own fun and excitement. You can spend hours or days enjoying the water, the land, and the sky in Jervis Bay, and never run out of options. Jervis Bay is truly an adventure lover’s paradise.
Dining
Jervis Bay is not only a place to feast your eyes, but also a place to feast your stomach. The bay has a variety of dining options, from fine dining to casual dining, that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you want to enjoy the local and seasonal dishes, the Indigenous ingredients and flavours, or the international cuisine, Jervis Bay has something for you. Here are some of the dining options that you should not miss in Jervis Bay:
Gunyah Restaurant
Gunyah Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant, located at the Paperbark Camp, that serves seasonal and local dishes with Indigenous ingredients and Australian flavours. The restaurant has a cosy and elegant atmosphere, with a fireplace, a veranda, and a garden view. The restaurant offers a set menu or a la carte menu, with dishes such as kangaroo carpaccio, barramundi fillet, and lemon myrtle cheesecake. The restaurant also has a wine list, featuring Australian and international wines. The restaurant is open for dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, and for lunch on weekends. The restaurant is a perfect place to enjoy a romantic and exquisite meal.
Huskisson Pub
Huskisson Pub is a historic and lively pub, located on the main street of Huskisson, that offers classic and modern pub food and drinks with a waterfront view. The pub has a friendly and vibrant atmosphere, with live music, trivia nights, and sports screenings. The pub offers a menu or a specials board, with dishes such as fish and chips, burgers, pizzas, and salads. The pub also has a bar, featuring beers, wines, cocktails, and spirits. The pub is open for lunch and dinner every day, and for breakfast on weekends. The pub is a great place to have a fun and casual meal.
Pilgrims
Pilgrims is a vegetarian and vegan cafe, located on the main street of Huskisson, that offers fresh and healthy salads, burgers, juices, and smoothies. The cafe has a cosy and colourful atmosphere, with a mural, a bookshelf, and a board game corner. The cafe offers a menu or a specials board, with dishes such as falafel salad, mushroom burger, green juice, and mango smoothie. The cafe also has a bakery, featuring muffins, cakes, and pies. The cafe is open for breakfast and lunch every day. The cafe is a great place to have a light and nutritious meal.
5 Little Pigs
5 Little Pigs is a cosy and friendly cafe, located on the main street of Huskisson, that offers delicious and hearty breakfasts, lunches, and coffee. The cafe has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a fireplace, a couch, and a chalkboard. The cafe offers a menu or a specials board, with dishes such as eggs benedict, bacon and egg roll, chicken schnitzel sandwich, and beef and Guinness pie. The cafe also has a coffee machine, featuring espresso, latte, cappuccino, and mocha. The cafe is open for breakfast and lunch every day. The cafe is a great place to have a satisfying and tasty meal.
The Quarters
The Quarters is a stylish and contemporary restaurant, located on the main street of Huskisson, that offers seafood, steak, pizza, and pasta with a garden view. The restaurant has a chic and elegant atmosphere, with a fireplace, a bar, and a terrace. The restaurant offers a menu or a specials board, with dishes such as oysters, calamari, rib eye, and seafood pizza. The restaurant also has a wine list, featuring Australian and international wines. The restaurant is open for dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, and for lunch on weekends. The restaurant is a perfect place to enjoy a sophisticated and delicious meal.
Jervis Bay has many more dining options to suit your appetite and mood, each with its own flavour and charm. You can spend hours or days enjoying the food and drinks in Jervis Bay, and never get tired. Jervis Bay is truly a food lover’s paradise.
Jervis Bay is a destination that will captivate you with its natural beauty, charm you with its culture and history, and thrill you with its activities and experiences. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous escape, or a romantic retreat, Jervis Bay has something for you. From the world’s whitest sand beaches, to the stunning and diverse national park, to the abundant and amazing wildlife, to the plethora of things to do, to the variety of dining options, Jervis Bay will satisfy your senses and your soul. Jervis Bay is a place that you will never want to leave, and that you will always want to return to. Jervis Bay is a place that you will fall in love with.
Are you ready to discover Jervis Bay for yourself? Then book your trip today and enjoy the best of Jervis Bay in 48 hours. You will not regret it. Thank you for reading this guide, and we hope you have a wonderful time in Jervis Bay.
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