There are plenty of natural wonders around NSW including the world’s oldest caves, majestic canyons, ocean blowholes that defy explanation and otherworldly rock formations. Among these attractions, one of the most captivating phenomena that draws visitors throughout the year, particularly during the warmer months, is bioluminescence. Although you can see this sparkling wonder in various locations, even in Sydney harbour, one spot that stands out in NSW thanks to its pristine waters and minimal light pollution is Jervis Bay. It also checks all the boxes for a dream weekend getaway: white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and remarkable national parks.
What is bioluminescence and when can you see it?
Bioluminescence refers to the natural phenomenon where living organisms, such as certain types of plankton, emit a glowing light in the water, creating trails of blue colour. The spectacle is most consistently observed in the warmer months, typically from November to March but it can occasionally appear in cooler months too. While predicting exactly when it will occur is challenging, your best bet to witness it is on a warm, moonless night. It’s important to note that swimming in bioluminescent waters isn’t encouraged as these organisms are often toxic. There is an excellent Facebook page called Bioluminescence Australia where Jervis Bay locals post regularly and educate newbies about this natural wonder. With that in mind, here are some beaches you could spot stunning bioluminescence as the weather gets warmer.
1. Barfluer Beach
For a serene escape without the crowds, head to Barfluer Beach in the lovely town of Vincentia. Located next to Plantation Point Reserve, this tranquil spot is backed by tall trees and amazing coastal scenery. It’s also a popular spot for those keen to see glowing plankton. Entrance to the beach is free and it also offers short walks, birdwatching, and shaded areas if you want to spend the day. Read all about the beach here.
2. Hyams Beach
Hyams Beach needs no introduction. Famed for having some of the whitest sand in the world and crystalline waters, it is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. While it offers plenty of coastal adventures during the day, it’s also known to delight visitors occasionally with bioluminescent waves. It can naturally vary from night to night so it’s worth keeping an eye on conditions and planning your trip accordingly.
3. Blenheim Beach
Blenheim Beach is a short but mighty beach that is part of the well-known White Sands Walk in Jervis Bay National Park. Enveloped by lush, sloping bushland, Blenheim provides an authentic bush and beach experience rolled into one. It’s excellent for snorkelling, boasting some of the best marine life in Jervis Bay, and is a popular spot for its host of glowing plankton.
4. Callala Bay
The unspoiled Callala Beach is perched at the northern end of Jervis Bay and also offers serene white sands and turquoise waters. It’s the longest beach in Jervis Bay and is the perfect warm-weather getaway with swimming nooks, coastal walks, and more. The northern end of the beach is quiet if you want to get away from the crowds. Bioluminescence has been spotted in Callala Bay in the warmer months.
5. Scottish Rocks Beach
Scottish Rocks Beach is located in Booderee National Park and is beautifully positioned between Greenpatch Beach and Murrays Beach, this tranquil spot in Jervis Bay offers a surprising sense of seclusion, complemented by its rugged rocky shores. When the waves hit these rocks, you can witness the glow of aquatic bioluminescence in the water without dealing with the crowds.
Find more incredible Jervis Bay beaches here.