Introduction
- Jervis Bay is a jewel in the crown of the South Coast, a massive natural harbour called Buduri by the indigenous Koori people, which translates to “Bay of Plenty.”
- The indigenous Koori people have been living here since before glaciation ended 15,000 years ago and were present when the bay itself was created by retreating waters 6,000 years ago.
- The bay is larger than Sydney Harbour and remains relatively undeveloped.
- The bay was named after Admiral Sir John Jervis.
- Hopefully, one day it will regain its original indigenous name, as has recently happened with Fraser Island, now known as Kigari.
Water Activities
Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises
- Two main companies: Dolphin Watch and Jervis Bay Wild.
- Both offer regular trips to see dolphins, seals, and whales (in season).
- Jervis Bay Wild offers a unique boom net experience, which is popular, especially with kids.
- If you visit at the right time of the year, these companies will also take you whale watching. The whales are on the move between May and November when they’re heading north, and late June and early July when they’re heading south.
- If you get a chance, take one of the longer cruises to showcase incredible scenery such as the cliffs at Point Perpendicular and Bowen Island.
Husky Ferry
- Operates during tourist seasons, cruising up and down Caribbean Creek between Myola and Huskisson.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddling
- Jervis Bay is perfect for these water sports.
- Novices can enjoy expert tuition from Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle or several kayak tour companies.
- Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle operates out of the Woolamaya boat ramp and teaches you all the basics while escorting you out on beautiful Curranbean Creek.
- Great way to see marine wildlife up close, including dolphins, whales, manta rays, nursing sharks, and a staggering array of fish.
Snorkelling, Freediving, and Scuba Diving
- Jervis Bay is famous for its clear waters, thanks to water circulation (refreshing once every 30 days) and a healthy ecosystem of seagrasses and lack of industrial or farming activity.
- Best snorkelling spots: Murray’s Beach, Scottish Rocks, Hole in the Wall, Greenfields, Highhams, and Greenpatch. Murray’s Beach is the top pick, situated at the very eastern tip of the Buduri National Park.
- Freediving: Guided swims and tuition available from Dive Jervis Bay and Wobbegon Freedive. Wobbegon also offers snorkel tuition from any of the bay’s stunning beaches.
- Scuba diving: Dive Jervis Bay and Crest Diving offer courses and guided dives. Jervis Bay attracts divers from all around the world to experience the amazing water clarity and abundant marine wildlife.
Beach Recommendations
- Quieter beaches in Buddery National Park: Scottish Rocks (clothing optional), Murrays, Hole in the Wall, Bristol Point, Green Patch, and Eileuka.
- Best family spot: Moona Moona Creek and adjacent Huskisson and Collingwood beaches.
- Hyams Beach: Famous for white sand (though not the whitest in the world or Australia), but can be extremely busy during summer. If visiting, arrive before daylight, park in the tiny beach car park, enjoy the sunrise, get your selfie, and leave before the crowds arrive.
- Alternative white sand beaches: Kallala Beach, Greenfield, Blenheim, or Murrays.
Bushwalks and Hikes
Short Walks
- Cape St George (Buduri National Park): Amazing views, abandoned lighthouse, whale spotting location. 50-metre walk from the carpark, well-maintained path suitable for wheelchairs.
- Point Perpendicular (Beecroft Weapons Range): Incredible view of the bay and Pacific Ocean from 18-metre cliffs, historic lighthouse. 300m flat walk from the top car park. Check accessibility before visiting, as it’s situated within a military weapons range.
- Scribbly Gum Track: Beautiful 2km return walk between Greenfield Beach and Chinaman’s Beach.
Medium Walks
- White Sands Walk: Huskisson to Hyams Beach (4-10km, depending on the endpoint). Park at Huskisson public wharf and follow the path east, keeping beaches on your left. Turn around whenever you’ve had enough, as the view is sensational in either direction.
- Bosom Beach to Mermaid’s Inlet: Coastal leg of Coombeys Walk (2km each way) or full 5km circuit. Park at Bosom Beach car park and follow signs to Mermaid’s Inlet.
Extended Hikes
- Buduri National Park Circuit Trail: 12km loop with side trails, stunning cliffs, rocky inlets, and remote beaches. Pick up a leaflet from the park office showcasing the park’s walks. Peaceful and remote locations on the southeastern tip of the park offer solitude even during busy summer holidays.
Unusual Activities
- Gosang’s Tunnel: Tubular cave leading to wide ledges halfway up the cliffs on the northern edge of the northern Beecroft Peninsula. Fairly cramped at the start, requiring crouching, crawling, or shuffling. Amazing view and dramatic, rugged scenery on the other side, but be careful of cuts and gullies in the rocks.
- Penguin Spotting: Observe the colony of about 5,000 little penguins on Bowen Island from the Governor’s Head lookout. While the island is a protected sanctuary and cannot be visited, penguins can be seen fishing and foraging on the rocky reefs between the mainland and the island, especially early in the day.
- The 230 Steps: Descend to Steamers Beach, the most dramatic beach in Jervis Bay, via 230 steps. The view on the way up and down is incredible and worth the effort. Steamers Beach is at the end of a 3km bushwalk with no nearby roads.
- Bonus tip: See a massive colony of crabs at the far end of Steamers Beach by walking carefully around the rocky ledges.
- Bioluminescence: Jervis Bay is one of the few places with regular occurrences of bioluminescent algal blooms. Tips for maximizing chances of seeing it:
- Often occurs immediately after rain.
- Most common on beaches on the southwestern side of the bay (Barfleur, Hyams, Chinamans, Greenpatch, Scottish Rocks, Murrays).
- Wind blowing from the north, pushing algae onto the southern inside edge of the bay.
- Look for telltale red algae on the sand during the day.
- Appears at high tide, so check tide times.
- Buduri Botanic Gardens: Learn about bush tucker and medicinal plants used by the Koori people. Peaceful corner of the park with a sheltered picnic area and electric barbecues. Guided walks run throughout the summer months by park rangers from the Wreck Bay community.
Rainy Day Activities
- Jervis Bay Maritime Museum: Static displays of historic vessels (including the ferry Lady Denman built in 1911) and cultural exhibits, including the history of the Koori people. Open every day except Christmas Day, entry fee applies.
- Indoor Climb South Coast Centre: Safe indoor climbing activities for all ages and skill levels. Offer training sessions for beginners and hire out all necessary kit. Located on Arena Road, Woolamia.
- Jervis Bay Brewing Company and Flaming Galar Brewing Company: On-site beer tasting and food trucks. Lovely shaded beer gardens. Located near the Indoor Climb South Coast Centre on Arena Road, Woolamia.
Food and Drink Recommendations
Fine Dining
- Gunya Restaurant (Paper Bar Camp): Three-course set menu utilizing indigenous ingredients. Restaurant located in a lovely building on the edge of the bush.
- Wild Ginger Restaurant (Huskisson): Asian-inspired food, three-course chef’s banquet. Located on Owen Street.
- The Quarter (Huskisson): Modern Australian food with Mediterranean and Asian influences. Offer several set options and a chef’s tasting menu.
Cafes
- Five Little Pigs (Huskisson): Excellent chicken roll and Brekkie Burger. Located next door to the Dive Shop.
- Pilgrims (Huskisson): Vegetarian and vegan food that could tempt the most ardent carnivore. Try the Bliss Burger. Located across the street from Five Little Pigs.
- The Cooked Goose Cafe (Hyams Beach): Consistently excellent, great for post-sunrise breakfast.
- Husky Hotel (Huskisson): Serves traditional pub meals (burgers, schnitzels) or proper sit-down meals in the Pavilion Bar and Kitchen. Located on the corner of Owen and Hawke Street, overlooking Caribbean Creek.
Takeaway
- Husky Bakery (Huskisson): Delicious pies, particularly the chilli con carne pie. Located on Curranbean Street.
- World Famous Fish and Chips (Huskisson): Enjoy your meal on the wharf, watching the water traffic pass by. Located on Owen Street.
- Something Seafood (Kalala Bay): Fish and chips or sushi, eat at the town’s boat ramp.
Additional Tips
- Avoid the weekend of the annual Husky Soon Triathlon unless participating, as it brings the whole town to a standstill.
- Check if your chosen day trip location is open (Beecrop Weapons Range and Buddery National Park may close for bushfires or global pandemics).
- Expect traffic during holiday periods, particularly at the Jervis Bay Road intersection with the Princes Highway.
- Don’t be alarmed by federal police cars in the Buttery National Park; parts of Jervis Bay are administered by the ACT for weird governmental reasons.
While a weekend trip is ideal for exploring Jervis Bay’s condensed location and numerous activities, consider staying longer if possible to fully appreciate the area.