Jervis Bay hardly needs an introduction. Its brilliant white sand beaches and clear blue waters have made it one of the most recognisable stretches of the NSW South Coast, but some of its prettiest spots tend to steal most of the attention. Sandwiched between Huskisson and Hyams Beach, Vincentia is an easy one to overlook, despite having 6.5km of white-sand coastline of its own. The laid-back seaside town puts beautiful swimming and snorkelling spots within easy reach, alongside secluded coves, coastal walks and the wildlife-rich waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park. Better still, it’s only a stone’s throw from Sydney, making it an ideal option for a warm-weather weekend by the water. Here’s how to make the most of a trip to Vincentia this spring.
Things to do in Vincentia in spring
With the warmer weather settling in, some of the best things to do around Vincentia can be found around it’s sapphire-blue waters. Blenheim Beach is a good place to start, particularly for snorkelling, while the lesser-known Orion Beach offers another scenic spot for swimming or simply spending a few hours by the bay.
One of the best ways to explore the coastline on foot is the stunning White Sands Walk, a relatively easy 2.5km trail beginning at Greenfield Beach picnic area. The route traces the edge of Jervis Bay winding past a string of pristine white-sand beaches before reaching the ever-famous Hyams Beach, with the return journey following the Scribbly Gum Track through lush forest and woodland views.
Water lovers will love exploring Jervis Bay Marine Park, which stretches across more than 100km of coastline and supports an extraordinary variety of marine life, including bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, little penguins and sea dragons. Snorkelling and scuba-diving tours offer a closer look beneath the surface, while sailing and kayaking are other ways to explore the waters. Spring also coincides with the humpback whale migration, when thousands of whales make their way south along the NSW coast towards Antarctic waters. Keep an eye on the horizon and you may spot them breaching offshore.
There’s plenty to do after dark too. Jervis Bay Stargazing runs guided experiences led by an astrophysicist, taking advantage of the area’s dark skies to spot planets, constellations and the Milky Way. Vincentia also makes a convenient base for exploring the wider region, including the beaches, walking trails and bushland of Booderee National Park just a short drive away.
Other ways to enjoy the town
You’ll find a few quality options for food and drink around town. The Local Jervis Bay is a local favourite stop for breakfast, lunch and coffee, while nearby Phoebe’s Kitchen offers excellent coffee and home cooked meals. For something heartier, La Vespa serves authentic Italian food in Vincentia Shopping Village, while The Salty Crab is the obvious choice if fish and chips by the coast sounds more appealing.
Shopping lovers can browse Bunya Wholefoods for organic produce, pantry staples and homewares, or stop by Tilly Island for bohemian-inspired decor, gifts and women’s fashion. For more boutiques and independent stores, Huskisson is just a short drive away. Read more about Vincentia and find accommodation options here.
Getting there
Vincentia is around a 2.5-hour drive south of Sydney, making it an excellent option for a weekend on the South Coast. The most scenic route takes you along parts of the Grand Pacific Drive, past coastal towns including Wollongong and Kiama before continuing towards Jervis Bay. If you’re travelling without a car, public transport is possible but less direct, with train and coach connections available to the Shoalhaven region. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.
