Huskisson has all the makings of the perfect warm-weather escape: striking white sand beaches, brilliant blue water and a lively waterfront lined with cafes, restaurants and pubs. Sitting on the shores of Jervis Bay, the small coastal town makes an excellent base for exploring this spectacular pocket of the South Coast, with Vincentia just minutes away and the famous White Sands Walk winding past a string of pristine beaches nearby. And there’s plenty of reason to stay put. Spend a sunny morning swimming in the bay, get out on the water by kayak or boat, then wander into town for seafood and drinks overlooking the coast. Just a short drive from Sydney, it’s an easy spring or summer getaway when the forecast calls for blue skies. Here are some of the best things to see, eat and do in Huskisson.
Explore Huskisson and the coast this spring
Huskisson is the place to be when the sun is out. Jervis Bay Marine Park is home to resident bottlenose dolphins, and cruises depart from Huskisson to see them in the bay, while kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding offer a laid-back way to explore the coastline. Beneath the surface, the gin-clear waters support fur seals, little penguins, weedy sea dragons and other marine life, with local operators running snorkelling, diving and freediving trips. Spring visitors may also catch the tail end of the whale migration, which continues through November.
Back on shore, cool off at the scenic Huskisson Sea Pool or follow the 1.4km Mangrove Boardwalk along Currambene Creek, with the path winding past mudflats and mangroves rich in birdlife. For something indoors, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum delves into the region’s seafaring history and houses the Lady Denman, the last surviving wooden Sydney Harbour ferry. There’s also the wonderfully old-school Huskisson Pictures, housed in a former community hall dating back to 1913, with cosy movie offerings all year round.
For outdoor adventure, head to the stunning Booderee National Park, home to white-sand beaches and aquamarine waters perched alongside bushland and dramatic coastal scenery. Green Patch is a particularly good warm-weather stop for swimming and beginner-friendly snorkelling, while Scottish Rocks and Murrays Beach offer some of the park’s best snorkelling around their rock platforms. Away from the water, Booderee is also home to Australia’s only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens, with walking trails weaving through rainforest, heath and forest and displays exploring the traditional uses of native plants by local Koori people.
For a final change of pace, head to the ruins of Cape St George Lighthouse, built in 1860 and later demolished after a replacement lighthouse was constructed at Point Perpendicular. The lookout takes in the cliffs and ocean towards Bowen Island and doubles as one of Booderee’s best whale-watching vantage points during migration season.
Where to eat and drink in Huskisson
Huskisson has plenty of stellar spots to refuel after a day by the water. Start with Kraken Sourdough, an artisan bakery turning out handmade sourdough, pastries and other baked treats, or grab breakfast at Salty Joe’s, a breezy cafe serving everything from smoothie bowls and fresh juices to burgers and coffee. Later in the day, Sandbar Restaurant & Bar sits opposite Shark Net Beach and is a handy spot for dinner and drinks near the water, while Peter Eva Italian is a local favourite for pizza, pasta and other Italian favourites.
While there, don’t forget to get your hands on fresh fish and chips from Husky Fresh Fish & Chip Co and take them down to the waterfront for an easy seaside lunch. If afternoon drinks are calling, Bud’s Tavern channels the classic Australian pub with cold beers, cocktails, a bistro menu and outdoor tables that are particularly inviting when the sun is out.
Browsw Huskisson’s shops and markets
Keen to do some shopping while in town? Wander along Owen Street and the surrounding town centre, where you can find a cluster of trendy boutiques and shops. The Collective Beat brings a rotating mix of small businesses, local makers, designers and vintage finds together under one roof. Nearby, Babylon Boutique stocks Australian and international fashion, swimwear and accessories, while Kiki – The Hippie Shop is a colourful stop for gifts and bohemian finds. For interiors and homewares, Few and Far – Huskisson is another addition to the itinerary.
If your visit falls on the second Sunday of the month, the Huskisson Market is held at the Huskisson Sportsground, bringing together fresh produce, plants, arts and crafts, bric-a-brac and other stalls from around the region. The next edition is Sunday, October 11, running from 8am to 1pm.
Getting there
Huskisson is around a 2.5 to three-hour drive from Sydney via the Princes Highway, making it an easy option for a weekend on the South Coast. If you have extra time, take the Grand Pacific Drive through the Royal National Park and along the coast for a more scenic journey south. Public transport is available with trains running from Sydney to Bomaderry (Nowra) and connecting buses continuing towards Huskisson. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.
