Laying claim to the world’s whitest sand, Jervis Bay is the state’s little slice of paradise. Just under three hours drive from Sydney, this naturally blessed pocket captures the essence of Australia’s coast to country landscape with sparkling aqua waters, perfect chalk-white sand and breathtaking bushland. While its pristine beaches are the region’s tourism drawcard, it’s also home to two national parks, a marine park and serves as a sanctuary for bottlenose dolphins, penguins and seals, making it the ideal getaway for a tranquil, nature-filled escape. So from luxurious glamping experiences to outstanding oysters, here’s the best of the Jervis Bay region.
One of the original and best glamping experiences in Australia, Paperbark’s glamorous take on camping is renowned for a reason. Blending comfort with sustainability, pitch (or pick) a deluxe tent amongst the soaring eucalyptus and paperbark trees and enjoy the peaceful serenity (while having access to luxurious amenities like loungers and a bush bath). paperbarkcamp.com.au
Paperbark’s formidable dining experience is open to non-resident guests for breakfast, afternoon cocktails, bar snacks and dinner. Taking dining to a new level (literally), The Gunyah is nestled among the treetops, elevating traditional bush tucker with a unique Australian menu that showcases the best of the South Coast’s seafood and produce. It’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner under the stars. paperbarkcamp.com.au/the-gunyah
When you’re ready to break from the beach, head to Cooked Goose on Hyams. Just 50 metres from the powder-white shore, this locally owned cafe focuses on locally-sourced produce, dishing up fantastic classics like Eggs Benny and Beer Battered Fish and Chips, along with great coffee, which is roasted in-house. Or, if you’re feeling particularly inspired by your surroundings, get a Beach Bowl and Pineapple Margarita…tropical the island breeze. cookedgoose.com.au
This historic 250-acre estate offers premium self-contained holiday accommodation just minutes from the pristine beaches and rugged bushland of Jervis Bay. From contemporary seaside villas to rustic stables and glamorous wilderness huts, take your pick from chic farm living or relaxed coastal bliss. worrowing.com.au
All that swimming will no doubt work up a thirst, which you can (and should) quench with a Hazy Pale Ale or Pina Colada Sour at this local favourite. Creating delicious craft beers that reflect Jervis Bay’s laidback attitude, book a brewery tour or simply enjoy a schooner or Tasting Paddle at The Taproom, along with excellent snacks at the 5 Little Pigs Food Truck. jervisbaybrewing.co
No trip to the country is complete without a visit to the local bakery, and this is the one to drop in at. Baking beautiful golden loaves of sourdough along with other classics like vanilla slice and scones, grab them to go and don’t leave without trying their famous Husky Pie. instagram.com/huskybakery
An exquisite dining experience on the South Coast, this multi-award winning restaurant offers a gourmet all-day service. Expect the best seafood from the South Coast like “Appellation’ rock oysters dressed in finger lime mignonette and local kingfish crudo with crème fraiche, corn fritter and chives; its menu showcases the best of the region with a creative (and delicious) spin. bangalayvillas.com.au
Along with impeccable dining, Bangalay also offers luxurious boutique accommodation. Inspired by nature, these stylish villas are set amongst the beautiful Bangalay Sand Forest in Shoalhaven Heads, with each private villa featuring golf course or garden views, as well as a fireplace and sun-filled north facing deck. Elevate your stay with an in-room massage, private yoga or meditation and picnic hamper prepared by the dining room. bangalayvillas.com.au
This boutique winery overlooks the Shoalhaven Heads River and better still, produces wonderful small-batch wines that use sustainable practices. Its light-filled Cellar Door offers sweeping views (and tastings of award-winners like their 2021 Rosé), or nab a spot outside on the grass and enjoy a bottle of wine with a cheese plate and idyllic views. twofigs.com.au
If you’re after a serene escape, drive 13 kilometres through the rainforests of Booderee National Park and you’ll find The Cove. Just meters from the beach, this nature retreat offers a range of self-contained eco shacks that are fully equipped with linen, bath towels, cutlery and crockery. Have a sunset BBQ and be joined by the locals – bouncing kangaroos and chirpy parrots – all to the soothing soundtrack of the sea. thecovejervisbay.com.au
They take their spirits seriously on the South Coast, and the Old Salt Distillery is evidence of this. Just half an hour from the beaches of Jervis Bay, this distillery, restaurant and bar focuses on small-batch, artisanal products that extend beyond their brilliant gins and vodka. Both chefs by trade, the husband and wife duo cut their teeth at some of Sydney’s most iconic spots (Tetsuya, Quay, Sepia, Victor Churchill), channeling this fine dining expertise into a casual yet memorable dining experience, served alongside craft beers, fruit-based hard seltzers, house made sodas and cocktails using their award-winning gins, vodka and seasonal fruit liqueurs. oldsaltdistillery.au
About half an hour north of Jervis Bay on the beautiful Crookhaven River, enjoy the freshest oysters and prawns at this third generation family-owned and run oyster farm. Eat them freshly shucked by the water’s edge or take them away – either way, they’re some of the best you’ll ever have. facebook.com/JimWildsOysterService
Painted in pastel shades of pink, cornflower blue, seafoam and lemon, you can’t miss these beautiful beachside cottages. Fringed by the impeccable white sands of Hyams Beach and the national park, these quaint, couples-only cottages were originally built as fisherman’s cabins in the 1920s and have been transformed into romantic, self-contained accomodation that captures the best of coastal living. Open your double French doors in the morning and enjoy a coffee on the deck while taking in the glorious sea breeze. hyamsbeachseasidecottages.com.au
Capturing the essence of pristine Jervis Bay, this distillery produces artisanal, small-batch spirits that honour its surroundings. Distilled with fresh and vibrant local ingredients and paired with native Australian botanicals, try their Citrus Gin or taste the South Coast with the White Sands Vodka. Using Jervis Bay rainwater collected and filtered on site, this speciality spirit bottles up the purity Jervis Bay, literally. jervisbaydistilling.com.au
On the shores of the Jervis Bay inlet, “the Husky Pub” is the place for a sundowner. Enjoy cold beer straight from the beach or take a seat at its bistro for pub classics, premium steaks and locally-sourced seafood. For a fancier tipple, head downstairs to the Waterfront Bar and enjoy a cocktail with glorious water views. There’s also eight queen-sized guest rooms if the chilli mango margaritas keep flowing and you need to call it a night. huskissonhotel.com.au
