Jervis Bay
Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay - Credit: Jordan Robins
Jervis Bay
With its white sand beaches, sparkling blue waters, water sports and abundance of wildlife, Jervis Bay on the NSW South Coast has it all. Located in the Shoalhaven region, join a dolphin-watching cruise, explore national parks and snorkel with marine life in this coastal paradise.
Highlights
Immerse yourself in nature
Jervis Bay is home to two national parks, as well as Jervis Bay Marine Park, a haven for bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, little penguins and sea dragons. In Jervis Bay National Park and Booderee National Park, meet kangaroos and birdlife. Be sure to visit the Aboriginal-owned Booderee Botanic Gardens.
Booderee National Park and Botanic Gardens, Jervis Bay - Credit: Dee Kramer | OEH
Murrays Beach is a seaside jewel in Booderee National Park, perfect for relaxing, swimming and snorkelling. At the southern tip of Jervis Bay, Cape St George Lighthouse is a great vantage point to spot migrating whales. On the other side of the bay, Point Perpendicular Lighthouse also offers spectacular views. Uncover more outdoor adventures in Jervis Bay.
Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay - Credit: Alexandra Adoncello
Explore an aquatic playground
Join dolphin and whale-watching cruises from Huskisson or discover a fascinating underwater world with Jervis Bay Sea Sports, Crest Diving, Australia's Coastal Wilderness Adventures or Woebegone Freedive. You’ll also find plenty of kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing and fishing tours thanks to Sea Kayak Jervis Bay Tours, Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle and Jervis Bay Kayak.
Dive Jervis Bay, Jervis Bay - Credit: Jordan Robins
Discover coastal towns
Explore the charming seaside towns and villages scattered around Jervis Bay, from Callala Bay in the north to Huskisson, Vincentia and Hyams Beach at the southern end of the bay. Stroll along the spectacular White Sands Walk, take a refreshing dip at Callala Beach and browse Jervis Bay Maritime Museum Markets.
Eat and drink your way along the coast, dropping by Jervis Bay Brewing Co. for award-winning craft brews in their beer garden, The Gunyah for native ingredients served up in a treetop setting and Flamin Galah Brewing Co for a cold beer paired with live music. Find even more delicious foodie experiences in Jervis Bay.
Flamin Galah Brewing Co, Huskisson
Where to stay
There are many places to stay in Jervis Bay, with accommodation options ranging from seaside cottages and holiday homes to caravan parks and beachside campgrounds at Green Patch, Bristol Point and Cave Beach. Enjoy luxury glamping at Paperbark Camp, where you’ll wake to the sound of birdsong in a spacious safari tent, nestled among gum trees on an elevated deck.
Paperbark Camp, Jervis Bay - Credit: Vanessa Levis
Getting there
Located in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast, Jervis Bay is less than a three-hour drive from both Sydney and Canberra. Enjoy the journey by road tripping along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.
Travel inspiration
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FAQs
How far is Jervis Bay from Sydney?
How far is Jervis Bay from Sydney?
Jervis Bay is 140km south along the coast from Sydney. The drive takes a little over 3 hours. Bus and train options are also available.
How do you get to Jervis Bay?
How do you get to Jervis Bay?
Jervis Bay is approximately 3 hours’ drive from both Sydney and Canberra. You can also travel by train from Sydney, and by bus from either Sydney or Canberra.
What is Jervis Bay popular for?
What is Jervis Bay popular for?
Jervis Bay is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, national parks and wildlife, including whale and dolphin watching. Summer is a great time to visit for a beach holiday with Hyams Beach, on the south side of Jervis Bay, said to have the whitest sand in the world. From May to November whales migrate through the marine sanctuary.
What is there to do in Jervis Bay?
What is there to do in Jervis Bay?
Jervis Bay is known for its natural beauty and coastal charm, and there are many available activities to take advantage of this including:
- See some of the whitest sand beaches in the world on the White Sands Walk
- Go diving or snorkelling in Jervis Bay Marine Park
- Have a family beach day at the gorgeous Murrays Beach
- Hike trails through Jervis Bay National Park and Booderee National Park
- Taste local Shoalhaven produce at the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum Market
- Visit local breweries including Flamin Galah Brewing Co, Jervis Bay Brewing Co., South Yeast and Swordfish Brewing Co
Can you swim in Jervis Bay?
Can you swim in Jervis Bay?
Jervis Bay is known for its white sandy beaches and is a safe place to swim. The bay is fairly sheltered so there is little swell, making it an ideal spot for a family beach holiday.
Are there sharks at Jervis Bay?
Are there sharks at Jervis Bay?
There is lots of marine life in the waters off Jervis Bay, including some kinds of shark, but the danger to humans is small. As a precaution, check for local shark sightings and pay attention to shark warnings when visiting beaches.
Is Jervis Bay NSW or ACT?
Is Jervis Bay NSW or ACT?
Geographically Jervis Bay is a part of the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast. However politically, the south head of the bay (including Jervis Bay village) is technically a part of the ACT and is administered by the ACT government. The Jervis Bay Territory was given to the ACT by NSW in 1915, to give the new territory access to the ocean. Even though it is a separate territory, there are no border controls and you might not even notice you have crossed over.