Keen to take the entire fam on holiday? Jervis Bay is just the place to be.
The bayside village boasts plenty of white sand beaches, pristine waters, and rich marine life, perfect for fun water sports and activities. Little kids will love seeing plankton glow blue at night and majestic whales during the day, while teens can enjoy discovering the waters by kayak or boat.
Where is Jervis Bay?
Jervis Bay is situated on the halfway point between Canberra and Sydney along the south coast of NSW. Thanks to its oceanside location, it gets very little rain throughout the year, making it a fantastic destination no matter the season.
How to get to Jervis Bay?
You can reach Jervis Bay from the Sydney CBD in three hours by car. Follow along the Grand Pacific Drive for unbeatable ocean views.
It’s also a three-hour drive from Canberra. For a more scenic ride, you can travel through Kangaroo Valley. But, if you prefer a faster way to reach Jervis Bay, follow the Tarago / Nerriga route.
Wondering what to do at Jervis Bay? Here are 20 free and affordable activities you can do with the kids:
1. Spend time at the Hole in the Wall - FREE
Want to know what else to do at Jervis Bay? Visit the Hole in the Wall! Like Blenheim Beach, it’s a fantastic photo spot thanks to its stunning waters, nearby trees, and namesake rock formation. The sandstone rock structure now has a U shape after being formed through time and by nature.
2. Go on a picnic at Murrays Beach - FREE
Feel like you’re in paradise when you visit Murrays Beach. The long stretch of white sand alongside the blue waters makes for a stunning picture. Take advantage of the nearby tables and pack some food for a delicious picnic with an incredible view.
3. Follow the White Sands Walk - FREE
Can’t decide on what to do at Jervis Bay? Explore the White Sands Walk! The 2.5-km track takes you to Jervis Bay’s most stunning (you guessed it!) white sand beaches and lush forests. From Vincentia, you’ll walk along Chinamans Beach, Huskisson, and finish at Hyams Beach.
4. Go camping at Cave Beach - FREE
Trade the crowded and bustling city life for a day (or two) at Cave Beach. With barbecues, freshwater, and public toilets, it’s the perfect place for a quick camping trip. You can go swimming, surfing, and snorkelling during your stay.
5. Check out the wildlife at Booderee National Park - FREE
Keep your eyes peeled for various kinds of animals at Booderee National Park. The kids will enjoy identifying different animals at the park, from sea eagles and black swans to wallabies and seals. It’s also an opportunity to teach them how to explore the place without bothering the animals.
6. Admire the glowing plankton at night - FREE
One of the most incredible and unmissable things to see in Jervis Bay are the bioluminescent plankton by the beaches! Because of a chemical reaction and the right temperature and conditions, plankton look like they’re glowing blue at night. In the past, they’ve been spotted at Callala Bay, Barfleur Beach, and Blenheim Beach. While it may occur at any time of the year, bioluminescence is most common during the summer and spring months.
7. Hang out at the Blenheim Beach - FREE
Whether you want to chill by the beach or go for a snorkel, Blenheim Beach is the place to be. With its beautiful white sand, crystal clear waters, and its surrounding vibrant bushland, the beach is ripe for swimming, getting some sun and relaxing.
8. Relax at Booderee Botanic Gardens - FREE
At the Booderee National Park’s Botanic Gardens, you can enjoy the vibrant flowers and trees, plus learn the Koori people’s history. As the only Aboriginal-owned botanic garden in the country, it boasts a rich heritage and carefully manicured lawns.
9. Enjoy the views by the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse - FREE
Wish to see a view of Jervis Bay from the top? Look no further than the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse. From 90 metres above sea level, you’ll get uninterrupted views of the cobalt-coloured waters, gorgeous beaches, and lush forests. Watch out for migrating whales and local seals!
10. Grab some gelato at Merciers - $6
After hours of exploring the town, you and the kids will surely love some tasty snacks. Make the most out of your break with a scoop of Merciers Gelato! Located next to the Kanpai Japanese Restaurant and Huskisson Bayside Resort in Huskisson, it’s just the thing that will energise you for the rest of your trip.
11. Watch a movie at Huskisson Pictures - $10
Take the kids to the cinema and catch the latest films! At Huskisson Pictures, you’ll be welcomed with an adorable retro-style exterior and cosy and comfortable interior, perfect for a day out for the family.
12. Visit the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum - $13
Mix things up and bring the kiddos to the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, a different experience from the water activities. At the museum, they’ll get to see nearly century-old vessels and well-preserved surveying instruments for a glimpse into the past.
13. See wild dolphins on a fun cruise - $33
While you’re planning what to do in Jervis Bay, make sure to include a dolphin watch cruise! Aboard a comfortable ship, you’ll be taken around the clear waters of Jervis Bay, where over a hundred bottlenose dolphins live. Your expert guide will point to all the points of interest, from Plantation Point to Callala, and tell you about the adorable dolphins in the area.
14. Explore Jervis Bay by bike - $40
Instead of exploring the town on foot, why not hire a bike instead! You and the kids will see a different side of the bay as you cycle your way through the lanes and tracks. The best part is that it includes free delivery and pick-up of the bike for a hassle-free experience.
15. Go boom netting in Jervis Bay - $45
There are endless things to do at the bayside town, but if you’re wondering what unique things to do at Jervis Bay, then boom netting is the answer. You’ll get to ride in a secure net attached to a boat for an unforgettable way to experience the pristine waters with the kids. Along the way, you’ll encounter towering cliffs, beautiful beaches, and (if you’re lucky) dolphins!
16. Discover Jarvis Bay by kayak - $60
Want to explore the bay at your own pace? Go on a kayak ride! You can paddle your way to the highlights of Jervis Bay, as well as its hidden gems. You can even pick between single-seater or two-seater kayaks.
17. Watch whales at Jervis Bay - $62
Jervis Bay is famed for its white sand beaches, blue waters, and marine life. Maximise your time at the bay and go on a whale-watching cruise to see the massive creatures in their natural habitat. Listen to the local experts as they explain the migration process of humpback whales. One of the top things to do in Jervis Bay!
18. Marvel at the Jervis Bay Passage on a cruise - $75
One of the most iconic sights in Jervis Bay, the Passage Cruise, is a stunning visual experience that the entire fam will enjoy. Onboard a comfy vessel, you’ll pass through towering rock formations, see captivating cliffs, and sail along turquoise waters. Make sure to bring your cameras for this one!
19. Have a meal atop a treehouse - $80
For a dining experience like no other, treat the whole family to a meal at The Gunyah. With fresh and locally sourced ingredients, the dishes are flavourful and delectable. The kids will love the novelty of dining at the top of a tall treehouse, while the adults will enjoy the cuisine.
20. Paddle your way around Jervis Bay by kayak - $135
Get up close and personal with Jervis Bay on this half-day kayak tour! Take in the incredible views of lush forests and towering cliffs as a guide leads you to the best of what Jervis Bay Marine Park has to offer. Plus, swim or hang out at one of the many white sand beaches around.