Jervis Bay: Wild, Natural Beauty
Jervis Bay boasts some of the safest beaches in the world made up of some of the whitest sand, so it isnââ¬â¢t surprising that this holiday hotspot, only 200km from Sydney, attracts 450,000 visitors each year. All the same, the bayââ¬â¢s beaches are so expansive that Jervis seems uncrowded even in the high season. Once youââ¬â¢ve reached the Bay, a wide range of outdoor activities await, from seasonal whale-watching to coastal hikes through Jervis Bay National Park. Make the most of the location and rent a holiday house or sunny apartment steps from the shore.
Jervis Bayââ¬â¢s White Sand Beaches
Jervis Bayââ¬â¢s protected waters create a safe environment for family beach days. One the areaââ¬â¢s most popular and scenic stretches of sand is Hyams Beach, nestled between Jervis Bay Marine Park and Booderee National Park. While you swim or sunbathe, take in views of rugged cliffs and headlands covered in greenery. If youââ¬â¢re up for a walk, a cliff top trail runs above the beach, affording sweeping views of the coastline and water. The town of Huskisson also offers a pristine, uncluttered beachfront, steps from the quaint settlementââ¬â¢s cafes. In Vincentia, youââ¬â¢ll find the seemingly untouched Blendheim Beach, a small sandy stretch surrounded by trees and providing plenty of privacy.
Wildlife Watching in Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is a haven for wildlifeââ¬âitââ¬â¢s almost as if animal species also knew to take advantage of the pristine environment. Throughout the year, you can spot dolphins frolicking in the waters of the bay. Take part in a dolphin watching cruise to get closer to these marine mammals. Sometimes, they come right up to greet the boats! From May to August and September to November, humpback whales also pass through the bay. Numerous whale watching cruises leave from Huskisson in season. If you would like to see other species in their natural habitat, go scuba-diving and discover the flora and fauna dwelling in the deep sea.
Stay Active in Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is an excellent spot for water sports of all kinds, but high energy activities are also plentiful on shore. For water-based action, try jet-skiing, snorkelling, diving or paddle boarding. Equipment is available for hire at virtually every beach or in the bayside towns. If you would like to explore Jervis Bayââ¬â¢s surroundings, rent a bike or do so on foot. You can climb the shorelineââ¬â¢s cliffs or venture further inland, following the creeks and lagoons that meander through and around Huskisson. Make sure you bring good shoes, because the best way to get around Jervis Bay is to walk or cycle!
Jervis Bay Culture and Heritage
Jervis Bay boasts a vast nautical history, which you can learn about at the Lady Denman Maritime Museum in Huskisson. The museum is set within heritage buildings and includes interactive displays, changing exhibitions and even some olden day vessels. If youââ¬â¢re more interested in Aboriginal art and culture, spend a few hours at the Laddie Timbery Aboriginal Art and Crafts Centre, still run by local artist and owner Laddie. The gift shop showcases unique aboriginal gifts and souvenirs to bring home. Alternately, amble around Huskissonââ¬â¢s main streets to discover art galleries, family-owned boutiques and antique shops.
Getting to Jervis Bay
The most convenient way to get to Jervis Bay is to drive, but if you donââ¬â¢t have access to a car, you can take a coach leaving from Melbourne or Sydney, then opt for the areaââ¬â¢s comprehensive public bus network to get to your final destination.
For more travel information on Jervis Bay, read our guide on Things to do in Jervis Bay.
