A holiday-goers dream, Jervis Bay is boarded by two national parks and a marine park that’s teeming with playful sea life. On land, hiking and cycling trails lead to cliff-top lookouts and remote beaches. At the southern end of Jervis Bay is Booderee National Park, which has bushland and wildlife in abundance. And the beaches? They’re postcard-perfect (Murrays Beach or Greenpatch are our picks).

But there really is no better way to explore this beautiful part of the South Coast than by water. Wildlife cruises will take you around Jervis Bay Marine Park, which is a haven for bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, little penguins, and migrating whales.

The beaches around Jervis Bay are perfect in every way, with Hyams, Culburra, and Murray’s Beach boasting some of the regions’ finest. Swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding are a favourite pastime. And in season, whale watching is a must. For those who prefer to stay on land to watch these beauties, Point Perpendicular Lighthouse on the northern tip and Cape St George Lighthouse on the southern side, boast some of the best seats in the house.

Hugging the calm waters of Jervis Bay is a string of easy-going coastal towns. From Callala Beach to the north of the bay and Huskisson, Vincentia and Hyams Beach to the south, they’re all perfectly positioned to capitalise on the bay.

The towns themselves offer an unbeatable lifestyle. Seaside cottages and dreamy holiday homes are all within walking distance, not only to the beaches but also into the villages that cater well to the every day. Fresh from the trawler seafood and farmgate produce is a standout for the cafés, eateries, and restaurants that are sprinkled throughout. Pubs and wine bars sit alongside boutique shops and art galleries, and fresh produce markets are a regular fixture, bringing the regions finest to the shores.

With so much to do and explore around Jervis Bay, your best bet is to stay awhile and enjoy all that the region has to offer.