Jervis Bay and Shoalhaven have significantly enriched New South Wales’ natural landscapes. From pristine white sand beaches to incredible rock formations and beautiful swimming spots, the hits just keep on coming. Yet, one of the region’s greatest treasures is tucked away beneath the surface of its crystal-clear waters. Glowing bioluminescence often illuminates the foreshore reserves, beaches, and lagoons in the area, and it’s a sight to behold. This summer, skip Hyams and head to the relatively small and under-the-radar Barfleur Beach in the coastal town of Vincentia, an excellent stop for beach vacationers looking to up the ante on their weekend getaway. Here’s what you need to know about Barfleur Beach and how to catch the magical bioluminescence in action.
What to do at Barfleur Beach
Barfleur Beach is nestled against the Plantation Point Reserve, which boasts lush greenery and towering trees. These trees lining the beach create an atmosphere of seclusion and make the spot feel like a hidden oasis even though it’s a short walk from a nearby park and picnic area. It’s this seclusion that also makes it the ideal spot to see bioluminescence in the warmer months thanks to thin crowds and minimal light pollution.
Other things to do at the beach include picnicking in one of the shaded spots around the reserve, enjoying short walks surrounded by water views, birdwatching, and more. Nearby, the town of Vincentia offers water activities, stunning coastal scenery, and plenty of fresh seafood to go around.
When can you see bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is a natural chemical process in which living things produce light in their bodies causing the sea to sparkle in neon blue and green.
Much like the beautiful aurora australis phenomenon seen in the skies, this display can be quite rare and that is part of the joy of chasing it. Bioluminescence can be seen year-round but it is typically at its most intense during the warmer months. Time your visit to the beach on a moonless or cloudy night for minimal light pollution so you can see the water teeming with bioluminescence. Luckily some locals are always on hand to witness it. You can follow this Facebook page for updates. Read more about Barfleur Beach here.
Getting to Barfleur Beach
Barfleur Beach is a 2.5 – 3-hour drive from Sydney via M1. Public transport from Sydney is available but a longer route of around 4 or 4.5 hours. Catch a train from Central to Kiama Station, then switch trains from Kiama to Bombaderry and hop on the 102 bus from Bombaderry Station to Elizabeth Drive. From here, you’ll have to walk for around 10 minutes to get to the beach. The beach is located at 42 Plantation Point Parade, Vincentia, NSW 2540 and it’s free to enter.