Golden beaches, waterfalls, lush rainforest and trendy boutiques: Byron Bay has its signature style. But with off-season deals and pleasant temperatures drawing visitors year-round, even winter rarely guarantees a quiet getaway at the coastal hotspot. Instead of heading to the perennial favourite, why not venture somewhere much closer that offers many of the same ingredients? Just a short drive from Sydney, Huskisson pairs powder-white beaches and striking turquoise water with a smattering of laid-back waterfront cafes, scenic coastal walks and some of the best whale watching on the NSW coast. Ready to plan a trip? Here’s how to make the most of a winter getaway in the vibrant coastal village.
Things to do in Huskisson in winter
Winter is one of the best times to experience Huskisson’s spectacular coastline, with migrating humpback whales making their way along the NSW coast between May and November. The town is the gateway to Jervis Bay Marine Park, with protected waters home to resident bottlenose dolphins year-round, and migrating whales passing close to the coastline throughout winter, making it one of the best times to book a wildlife cruise. If you’d rather get out on the waters yourself, local operators also offer kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving, allowing visitors to experience the bay’s famously clear waters from a different perspective.
Back on land, Booderee National Park is just a short drive away and well worth setting aside a few hours for. Home to some of the South Coast’s most spectacular scenery, it’s where you’ll find the White Sands Walk, an easy coastal trail linking some of the prettiest white sand beaches in the area including Hyams Beach, Green Patch and Murrays Beach.
The cooler temperatures in winter make it an ideal time to tackle the walks, with crisp sea air, fewer people on the trails and uninterrupted views across Jervis Bay.
With balmy sea breezes and beautiful vistas, Huskisson offers a winning formula for relaxation and the same seaside vibe that draws visitors to its more famous counterparts. Wander along the Mangrove Boardwalk as it winds through the mangroves of Currambene Creek, browse the exhibits at the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum and dive intoonce you’re done sunbathing on a white sand beach the area’s seafaring history. After dark, join a beachside astronomy session with Jervis Bay Stargazing, with an astrophysicist guiding visitors through the dazzling night sky using powerful telescopes and binoculars.
Other ways to enjoy the town
Once you’re done sunbathing on a white sand beach, Huskisson offers plenty of chic eateries by the water. Fittingly, you can get excellent seafood here too. Start the day with coffee and brunch at 5 Little Pigs or Harley’s at Husky, settle in for fresh seafood and turquoise water views at the Huskisson Hotel, or sample award-winning craft beer in the beer gardens at Jervis Bay Brewing Co. and Flamin Galah Brewing Co. If you’re after something a little more special, The Gunyah at Paperbark Camp showcases local and native ingredients in a unique treetop setting, while Pasta Buoy and Wildginger are local staples for fresh pasta and modern Asian cuisine.
Leave a little time to browse the town’s independent boutiques before heading home. Pick up beachwear and accessories at Beyond the Beach Lifestyle, shop homewares and gifts at Jay on the Bay, or browse handmade pieces and locally inspired gifts at Ethik. Small enough to explore on foot, it’s easy to hop between cafes, shops and the waterfront in town. If you’re visiting on the second Sunday of the month, spend the morning exploring the Huskisson Market, where local makers, fresh produce and artisan stalls line the foreshore. Read more about Huskisson and find accommodation options here.
Getting there
Huskisson is located on the NSW South Coast, around a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Sydney via the Princes Highway. For a more scenic journey, consider travelling via the picturesque Grand Pacific Drive. If you’re travelling by public transport, catch a train from Sydney to Bomaderry (Nowra), then connect to a bus or taxi for the final leg to Huskisson. Once you arrive, the town centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. Plan your journey on the Transport for NSW.
