Beaches are one of Australia’s best features and there are thousands to explore, from iconic stretches like Bondi and Whitehaven to the secluded sands of Washaway Beach. With over 25,000 kilometres of coastline on offer, there is a slice of shore for everyone. But some beaches are favourites for a reason, no matter the time or season. One that’s widely considered among the very best and consistently attracts repeat visitors and tourists from far and wide is the South Coast‘s crown jewel, Hyams Beach. With its blinding white sand and clear blue waters galore, the beach offers an uncanny alternative to the Maldives. Plus, you can experience all of its magic for less. And much like the Maldives, you can spot glowing bioluminescent waters if you get lucky. Here’s everything you need to know about Hyams Beach.
Hyams Beach, NSW
With blue waters that create a stark contrast to the lush foliage in the distance, this picturesque spot always remains in vogue — especially in the height of summer. Located in the Shoalhaven region of the NSW South Coast, Hyams offers a stellar coastal getaway with stunning walking trails along the shoreline, extraordinary views, and natural scenery. The beach is fringed by the Jervis Bay Marine Park which gives it an almost tropical feel. Here are some of the best things to do in and around Hyams Beach.
Go on the Hyams Beach Trail
Love a local wildlife experience? Check out the Hyams Beach trail also known as the Bird Spotter’s Walk, which offers exactly what the name suggests — opportunities to spot beautiful local birds including new Holland honey-eaters, eastern rosellas, and crimson rosellas along the beach. It’s a short 2km walk that leads to Seamans Beach for a refreshing dip in the clear waters and then loops back along Hyams Beach. The walk is reasonably easy and should take no more than an hour to complete — unless, of course, you find yourself stopping frequently to take photos.
Explore the Booderee National Park
Just a hop, skip, and jump from Hyams Beach is the Booderee National Park, another local treasure that remains surprisingly under the radar. This wildly scenic national park offers white sand beaches, very blue waters, waterside camping, and a gorgeous botanic garden so give yourselves a few hours to fully take it all in. If you’re going on a particularly hot day, the park also offers barbecues and sheltered picnic areas. Plan your visit with our full guide to Booderee National Park.
Stroll the beautiful White Sands Walk
When it comes to pristine white sand beaches, Jervis Bay is the place to be. One of the best ways to take it all in is on the short but stunning White Sands Walk. Meandering through five spectacular white sand beaches, each offering its own unique charm, this breezy trail winds through coastal forests, soft powdery white sand, and seriously blue waters in just 90 minutes. The walk ends at Hyams Beach, so this is a great way to experience the best of the area in one go. Read more about the White Sands Walk here.
Go snorkelling at Jervis Bay Marine Park
Aside from sunbathing and excellent views at every turn, the region also offers some of the best snorkelling in NSW with over 220 fish species and incredible marine life at the Jervis Bay Marine Park. Mesmerising sights abound under the sea here and adventurous travellers will love diving into the crystal-clear waters and exploring the crystalline expanse. You can spot everything from sharks to rays, seasonal whales, dolphins and so much more.
The best time to visit
Hyams Beach is the perfect beach destination all year round. Summer is peak travel season so be prepared for crowds but the balmy weather, refreshing turquoise waves and outdoor activities make up for it. For a quieter experience, visit in spring. June to November is the best time for whale watching. Read more about Hyams Beach and find accommodation options here.
How to get to Hyams Beach
Hyams Beach is a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney along the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive. You can also opt to take the train from Central to Kiama onto Bomaderry and then hop on a bus to Hyams Beach via Vincentia but be prepared for a long journey. Plan your travel here.