by Dawn Teh
posted on 17 July 2023
With its picture-perfect beaches, rich wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities, Jervis Bay is a top destination on the south coast of Australia. The trek from Sydney to Jervis Bay is a breathtaking adventure in itself – if you know where to go.
Keep reading to discover all you need to know to make the most of your Sydney to Jervis Bay road trip!
Sydney to Jervis Bay, NSW – a road trip along the south coast
On this journey, you’ll pass through postcard-worthy attractions and towns that are rich in culture and history.
To start off, here are key things you need to know about this journey:
- Driving distance: About 200 km depending on which route you take
- Driving time: About three hours
- Drive rating: Easy drive on sealed roads, but be careful on some winding sections
- The best place to visit between Sydney and Jervis Bay: Kiama blowhole, Royal National Park, Gerringong, Gerroa Lookout
- When to go: October to April for outdoor activities, June to August to catch the whale watching season.
An overview of the Sydney to Jervis Bay drive
The journey from Sydney to Jervis Bay is a straightforward, easy drive on sealed roads.
There are options in terms of which route you’d like to take, and which is better for you depends mostly on what you’d like to see and do.
The faster way takes you along the coast where you’ll get to see breathtaking coastal views. The alternative inland route will allow you to explore upcountry towns and forest scenery.
Keep reading to get all the details on how to make the most of your Sydney to Jervis Bay trip.
The fastest route
The fastest way to get from Sydney to Jervis Bay is via the M1 and then Princes Highway. The route passes through the Royal National Park and several coastal towns. Along this drive, you’ll get to stop by:
- Kiama blowhole to feel the ocean spray.
- The charming town of Gerrigong, where you can experience some beach-side living.
- Seven Mile Beach which is renowned for its white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Kingsford Smith lookout in Gerroa which features spectacular views of Seven Mile Beach.
An alternative route
Fancy a more inland Sydney to Jervis Bay route where you’ll get to enjoy the majestic Fitzroy Falls and quaint countryside towns of the Southern Highlands?
Instead of the M1, you’ll head west on the M5 which will lead you to the Hume Motorway.
Exit onto Old Hume Highway which will lead you to the towns of Bowral (home to the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame) and Moss Vale.
Take the first exit onto Illawarra Highway at Moss Vale, where you’ll pass by Fitzroy Falls and head through Kangaroo Valley which is a hit with both foodies and nature lovers.
Follow Nowra Rd and Moss Vale Rd to Princes Highway in Bomaderry, then continue onto Jervis Bay Road.
The distance between Sydney and Jervis Bay
If you take the coastal route which leads you along the M1 and Princes Highway, the driving distance between Sydney and Jervis Bay will be 196 km.
The inland route, which takes you through Fitzroy Falls and Kangaroo Valley, is 216 km.
How long is the drive?
The drive from Sydney to Jervis Bay is approximately three hours long.
Jervis Bay parking
Street parking in Jervis Bay is generally free, but take note of time limits to avoid getting a fine.
How to get from Sydney to Jervis Bay without a car
Don’t plan on driving? It’s possible to get from Sydney to Jervis Bay using a mix of train and bus services. The good thing about using public transport is that you can relax on your journey and soak in the sights along the way.
However, there are a few drawbacks. The journey will be significantly longer than driving. Plus, you don’t get to choose your stops along the way. Another issue is that getting around the Jervis Bay area itself using public transport is tricky as the network is limited.
If you book a car on Turo in Sydney, you’ll have the freedom to select which attractions you’d like to see and customise your own trip. There are a wide variety of listed vehicles to suit your needs to make your journey more comfortable too.
Getting to Jervis Bay by train or bus
To get to Jervis Bay by train or bus, you’ll first need to take the train from Sydney to Nowra. This section of the journey takes around three and a half hours. From there, you can catch a bus into Jervis Bay using Nowra Coaches.
While this option allows you to relax through the journey without driving, you might miss out on stopping at popular attractions along the way (like the Kiama blowhole or Royal National Park).
Getting around the Jervis Bay area is not very convenient, either – consider booking a car on Turo or staying down there for longer to factor in travel time between destinations.
Flying to Jervis Bay
If you’re coming from overseas and would like to visit Jervis Bay, your best bet is to fly to Sydney and then drive to Jervis Bay.
Car hire Jervis Bay Airport
Jervis Bay does not have its own airport for commercial flights. People coming from overseas would usually fly to Sydney International Airport and then drive to Jervis Bay. If you need a car while in the Jervis Bay area, why not hire a car on Turo?
Places to visit along the way to Jervis Bay
With a multitude of stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities along the Sydney to Jervis Bay drive, you’ll find plenty to see and do whether you’re an adventurous soul, culture-seeker, or nature lover.
Kiama (Kiama Blowhole)
Nestled along the stunning stretch of NSW’s coastline is the charming seaside town of Kiama which is home to the famous Kiama Blowhole — the largest of its kind in the world. Witness the spectacular sight of seawater shooting up to 30 metres in the air through an opening in the rocks.
Berry, NSW
Stop by the charming town of Berry, NSW where you’ll find a mixture of boutique shops, quirky cafes, and gourmet restaurants in the town centre along with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Botany Bay and the Royal National Park
While it may add an hour of drive time to your journey, passing through the picturesque Botany Bay and the Royal National Park is not to be missed. Take a scenic drive along the Grand Pacific Drive to admire the sweeping coastline and panoramic ocean sights. Plus, don’t forget the cliff views of Stanwell Tops and the enchanting Audley, nestled in the heart of the Royal National Park.
Symbio Wildlife Park
On your way from Sydney to Jervis Bay, get up close and personal with the amazing animals of Symbio Wildlife Park — including native wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, and wombats. Animal lovers will enjoy hand-feeding them and learning about their unique behaviours and characteristics.
Gerringong
Located on the south coast of New South Wales, the beach town of Gerringong is a paradise for surfers, sun-seekers, and nature lovers alike. Take a stroll along the beach, indulge in the local gourmet restaurants, relax in the local ocean water rock pools, and soak up the laid-back vibe of the village.
Gerroa Lookout
From the Sir Charles Kingsford Smith Memorial Lookout in Gerroa, visitors can see the iconic Seven Mile Beach, rolling hills, and the majestic Pacific Ocean. The lookout commemorates the epic flight by Sir Charles Kingsford Smith from Seven Mile Beach to New Zealand in 1933. Take in the amazing views and contemplate the pioneering spirit of this incredible Australian hero.
7 Mile Beach
Enjoy 12 whole kilometres of white sands, crystal-clear waters, and gentle waves at Seven Mile Beach. If you’re adventurous, you can even try your hand at surfing, snorkelling, or windsurfing.
Sea Cliff Bridge
As you drive along Grand Pacific Drive, you won’t be able to miss the breathtaking Sea Cliff Bridge. Extending gracefully over the ocean, it spans 665 metres over the rugged coastline, offering sweeping views of the deep blue sea below.
Explore Jervis Bay (New South Wales)
The breathtaking destination of Jervis Bay NSW is perfect for those looking for a unique travel experience filled with the perfect combination of outdoor adventure, jaw-dropping scenery, and wildlife watching. Take a stroll along the gorgeous beaches or embark on a hike through the surrounding bushland. The surrounding villages of Huskisson and Vincentia are also two must-visit destinations, offering endless activities to fill your itinerary as you explore the area.
The best time to visit Jervis Bay
The best time to visit Jervis Bay depends on what you’d like to do in the area. If you plan to do lots of outdoor activities, stopping by from October to April is an ideal time because of the sunny weather.
However, some people like the winter period in the middle of the year to catch the whale watching season too.
If you can, avoid the school holiday season as you wouldn’t want to experience crowded eateries and attractions along with congested roads.
Is Jervis Bay worth visiting?
Jervis Bay is worth visiting for those seeking pristine beaches, wildlife watching, outdoor adventure, and a taste of the laidback coastal lifestyle.
How many days do you need in Jervis Bay?
To see all that Jervis Bay has to offer, you ideally want to spend at least 2-3 days there.
Jervis Bay places to visit
The picturesque region of Jervis Bay in New South Wales boasts some of Australia’s most stunning natural wonders and landmarks. Whether you’re seeking an adventure-packed holiday or a relaxing retreat at Jervis Bay village, this coastal paradise is sure to cater to all your needs. Keep reading to discover the best spots to visit in the area!
Huskisson
Located on the coast of Jervis Bay, the charming coastal town of Huskisson is a popular destination for diving, kayaking, and whale watching. The town also boasts an array of quaint cafes and restaurants.
Jervis Bay Marine Park
The Jervis Bay Marine Park is a conservation area that provides sanctuary for many sea creatures like dolphins, seals, and penguins. Immerse yourself in this vibrant underwater world through snorkelling and diving. Or, board a whale-watching expedition to catch a sighting of majestic humpback whales making their way along the eastern coast.
Jervis Bay’s beaches
Not sure which beaches to visit in Jervis Bay? Here are some of the most popular spots where you’ll get to see amazing views:
- Huskisson Beach: Great for families, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
- Hyams Beach: Don’t miss the scenic White Sands Walk.
- Greenfield Beach: Stop by for a beachside barbecue or explore the walking tracks that surround the area.
- Cave beach: A popular spot amongst surfers and those who want to spot some native wildlife.
- Moona Moona beach: Shallow waters, nearby barbecue pits, and outdoor showers make this a great area for relaxation seekers and families.
If you want to avoid the crowd, go off the beaten track and hop over to Jervis Bay’s more secluded beaches:
- Blenheim Beach: This small beach next to lush bushland is also a hit with snorkelers.
- Long Beach: Enjoy two kilometres of the whitest sand and bluest waters you’ll see around Australia.
- Murrays Beach: Enjoy swimming and snorkelling at this quiet beach located in Booderee National Park.
National parks
- Booderee National Park: Explore the majestic cliffs, pristine beaches, and rich botanical gardens while learning about the local historic Aboriginal sites.
- Jervis Bay National Park: Hike the park’s various trails, enjoy the bay’s turquoise waters, or simply relax on one of its many beaches.
Nightlife
Jervis Bay may be best known for its stunning natural scenery. But when the sun sets, the town comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Head over to the local breweries like the Jervis Bay Brewing Co. and Flamin Galah Brewing Co. The Huskisson Hotel (known to locals as “Husky Pub”) is another popular spot for drinks and great food, while Wildginger might appeal to those looking for Asian fusion meals. There’s also always the option of a scenic sunset picnic on the beach.
Must-do activities in Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is an unbeatable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. While there are countless activities to choose from, here are certain must-do items that should be at the top of your list:
- Exploring nature: With plenty of national parks and protected areas, the Jervis Bay territory is a treasure trove of natural wonders just waiting to be explored.
- Whale watching: Whether it’s with a cruise or atop a lofty cliff, there are many ways to spot the majestic humpback whales as they migrate through the New South Wales south coast.
- Enjoy the water: The crystal-clear waters of the Jervis Bay area are an absolute marvel.
- Water sports: From kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and snorkelling, Jervis Bay is a water-lovers paradise that offers endless opportunities for adventure. You won’t want to miss this spot if you’re a scuba diver.
- Bushwalking and hiking: With a multitude of hiking trails amongst the national parks and bushland of the area, you’ll have many choices when it comes to exploring the natural beauty of Jervis Bay while stretching your legs.
- Camping: From beachside camps to family-friendly holiday parks and luxury glamping, there’s something for all campers in the Jervis Bay territory.
- Fishing: You’ll find a range of fishing locations in Jervis Bay including beach and rock options. Just be sure to check the fishing guidelines of the area as many spots are conservation zones.
- Dining: From casual cafes with breathtaking views to fine dining experiences showcasing local seafood, there’s something to suit every palate.
Camping in Jervis Bay
Wake up to the sound of crashing waves or enjoy the serenity of nearby forests as you camp at some of the best coastal spots around Jervis Bay. Bristol Point, Cave Beach, Honeymoon Bay, and Green Patch campgrounds are all well-known for their scenic locations and excellent amenities.
Need a car that’s better suited for camping? Consider booking a car or van on Turo to fit all the necessary gear needed for your adventure.
Getting from Sydney to Jervis Bay: A summary
From the rugged coastline strewn with pristine beaches to the lush forest hinterland, the Sydney to Jervis Bay drive is sure to be an unforgettable one.
So, why wait? Book your dream car on Turo and experience the ultimate road trip adventure across one of Australia’s most scenic drives. Choose from a range of vehicles, from luxury to eco-friendly, and explore the region in the perfect car.
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Dawn Teh
Dawn, an ex-psychologist and avid travel writer, blends her expertise in human behaviour with her passion for adventure. Her writing reflects a unique perspective on personal growth, wanderlust and what it is that helps humans thrive. Her current mission is to live the van life and tour the Australian outback with her family.
