We could all use a beach getaway every now and again, but jetting off to an exotic destination isn’t always realistic. Lucky for us, some of the world’s best beaches can be found right here at home. If you’re looking for sand, surf, and a much-needed break, there’s a spot just a short drive from Sydney that’s got it all. With miles of gleaming white sand, sparkling turquoise waters, and endless ocean views, it’s clear we’re talking about the famous Hyams Beach. Known for having some of the whitest sand in the world, this idyllic beach offers a tropical feel without the long-haul flight, a true slice of coastal paradise that lets you unwind and disconnect, surrounded by natural scenery, just like the world-famous Maldives, but for a fraction of the cost.
Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay
Hyams Beach is a favoured spot for sun seekers and nature lovers all year, but summer is the time to enjoy it in all its splendour. From the calm blue waters perfect for a swim to the surrounding nature trails and national parks, there’s plenty to do in the area beyond the beach itself.
The White Sands Walk is one of the best ways to take in the coastline around Hyams Beach. This short, easy trail links a string of beautiful white sand beaches, each with its own distinct personality, with uninterrupted views of Jervis Bay’s shimmering, clear water throughout the route. The path winds through coastal forest and quiet stretches of pristine sand, from Nelson Beach, boasting incredible blue waters, to the almost-tropical and surprisingly secluded Chinamans Beach. The trail wraps up at Hyams Beach, so you can step straight onto the sand and into the water when you’re done.
When you’re ready to explore beyond the beaches, check out the nearby Booderee National Park, a protected area known for its picturesque beaches, rich birdlife, and dense bushland. Murrays Beach is the standout with azure waters, shallow and great for swimming, but the park also has peaceful walking trails, lookouts, and Australia’s only Aboriginal-owned botanic garden, well worth wandering through.
And there’s more. The Hyams Beach Trail is a simple 2km loop through coastal bushland, known for its regular sightings of rosellas, honeyeaters and other local birdlife, while Jervis Bay Marine Park is one of the best places in NSW for snorkelling, with clear water and a staggering variety of marine life. Needless to say, the beach gets busy in summer, but the powdery sands and crystal clear waters are worth braving the crowds for. Read more about Hyams Beach here.
What to know before you go
Where: Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay
Skill level: Ideal for swimmers of all ages due to calm, clear waters
Parking: Very limited parking near the main beach; usually filled out in summer
Entry fee: Free
Accessibility: The main access points are close to parking areas
Best for: Swimming, relaxing on the sand, coastal walks and photography
Seasonal notes: Summer offers the most vibrant water and warm conditions; whales are often spotted offshore from June to November
Getting there
Hyams Beach is around a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney on the South Coast via the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive. Parking in the village is limited, especially in summer, so it’s worth arriving early or visiting outside peak times if you can. There is no direct public transport to the beach, but you can take the train to Kiama or Bomaderry and continue by bus to Vincentia. Once you’re there, everything is close enough to reach on foot. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.