Jervis Bay has four solid surf spots within 45 minutes of Huskisson, from beginner beaches to intermediate breaks. Culburra Beach and Mollymook are your most consistent bets for reliable waves, while Caves Beach in Booderee National Park suits learners after gentler conditions. Water temp sits around 18-20°C this time of year, so a 3/2mm steamer covers you.
About 3 hours south of Sydney on the NSW South Coast, Jervis Bay is one of those rare spots where you can score decent surf and still have a proper holiday. Whether you're bringing the family, escaping for a couples' weekend, or just need a break from the Sydney crowds, the bay delivers clean water, white sand beaches, and waves that work across different skill levels.
We've surfed every break in the area and put this guide together to help you pick the right spot based on your ability, the wind direction, and how much time you've got. Each section includes wave difficulty, best conditions, and what else is nearby if you need to keep non-surfing mates entertained.
What wetsuit do you need for Jervis Bay?
Water temps in Jervis Bay range from 18-19°C in winter (June-August) to 21-23°C in summer (December-February). Right now you're looking at around 18-20°C, which means a 3/2mm full steamer is ideal for most surfers. If you run cold or plan to stay out for long sessions, a 4/3mm won't go astray during the cooler months.
In summer you can get away with a 2mm spring suit or even boardshorts on the warmer days, but we'd still recommend a 1.5mm wetsuit top for dawn patrols and arvo sessions when the water feels cooler than the air temp suggests.
For more detail on choosing the right thickness, check out our guide on which wetsuit thickness is best for Australia.
Where are the best surf spots in Jervis Bay?
All drive times below are from Huskisson, the main town in Jervis Bay and the best base for accommodation.
Caves Beach (24 min drive)
Wave difficulty: Beginner
Best wind: Northwest
Aspect: South-facing
Caves Beach sits inside Booderee National Park and offers the most sheltered surf in the area. The south-facing aspect means gentler, more manageable waves, ideal for learners or anyone after a mellow session. The beach gets its name from the network of sea caves at the southern end, which you can explore at low tide.
Entry to Booderee National Park is $13 per vehicle, and there's a 300-metre walk from the carpark to the sand. The walk is easy and well-maintained. Pack light if you're carrying a longboard.
Nearby activity: The Botanic Gardens in Booderee National Park are worth a visit after your surf. Multiple walking trails wind through native bushland, and it's excellent for birdwatching.
Steamers Beach (27 min drive)
Wave difficulty: Intermediate
Best wind: Northwest
Aspect: East-facing
Also in Booderee National Park, Steamers Beach picks up more swell than Caves Beach due to its easterly exposure. The waves here have a bit more push and suit intermediate surfers comfortable reading the lineup and positioning themselves.
There have been occasional shark sightings at Steamers, so avoid surfing at dawn and dusk when marine activity peaks. Stick to the middle of the day when visibility is better.
Access requires a 2.3km bush walk (around 30 minutes) from the carpark. The trail takes you through tall eucalypt forest and finishes with a steep flight of stairs down to the beach. It's a solid walk with a board, but the lack of crowds makes it worth the effort.
Nearby activity: The bush walk itself is the main drawcard here. If you're into hiking, the trail offers a proper dose of coastal forest before you hit the sand.
Culburra Beach (34 min drive)
Wave difficulty: Intermediate
Best wind: West
Aspect: East-facing
Culburra is your classic NSW beach break with consistent, reliable surf. East-facing and fully exposed to south swells, it works across most tides and delivers punchy waves that suit intermediate surfers looking for a proper workout. The beach stretches for kilometres, so even on busy weekends you can find a quieter peak if you walk north or south.
This is one of the most consistent spots in the Jervis Bay area. If the other breaks are flat or blown out, Culburra usually has something rideable.
Nearby activity: The inland waterways around Crookhaven Heads are excellent for jetty fishing. The boat ramp jetties are easily accessible by car and sheltered from the wind. Bream, flathead, and whiting are common catches.
Mollymook Beach (46 min drive)
Wave difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
Best wind: West
Aspect: East-facing
Mollymook is a longboarder's paradise. The waves here are long, smooth, and forgiving, perfect for practicing your cross-stepping or just cruising. It's also a great spot for intermediate shortboarders looking to work on their style without the pressure of fast, hollow waves.
The beach has good facilities, reliable surf, and a relaxed vibe. It's slightly further from Huskisson than the other spots, but if you're staying in the area for a few days, it's worth the drive.
Nearby activity: Cupitt's Winery is a 10-minute drive from Mollymook and offers wine tastings overlooking the vineyard, followed by a sit-down lunch featuring modern Australian cuisine. Book ahead, especially on weekends, as it fills up fast.
Where should you stay in Jervis Bay?
Huskisson is the best base for accommodation. It's central to all four surf spots listed above, has a solid range of cafés and restaurants, and offers plenty of short-term rental options through Airbnb and Stayz. The town sits on the shores of Jervis Bay itself, so you've got calm water for stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on the days the surf is flat.
Book early if you're planning to visit over Easter, Christmas, or the summer school holidays. Accommodation fills up quickly during peak periods.
What else can you do in Jervis Bay besides surfing?
Jervis Bay is one of those spots where non-surfers won't be bored. Here's what we've tested over multiple trips:
- White Sands Walk from Greenfield Beach to Hyams Beach
- Scribbly Gum Track Walk (also connects Greenfield Beach and Hyams Beach)
- Stand-up paddleboarding in the calm bay waters
- Picnic at Greenfield Beach (sheltered, family-friendly)
- Drinks at Huskisson Hotel
- Breakfast at Portside Café
- Tandem bike hire along the Huskisson foreshore
- Tennis at The Country Club, Vincentia
- Dinner at The Stonegrill Steakhouse, Huskisson
- Lunch at 5 Little Pigs
If you're looking for more NSW South Coast surf options, check out our guide to the best campsites near surf beaches in NSW.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of year to surf Jervis Bay?
Autumn and winter (March to August) offer the most consistent surf in Jervis Bay, with regular south swells and offshore westerly winds. Water temps range from 17-20°C, so you'll need a 3/2mm or 4/3mm steamer.
Is Jervis Bay good for beginner surfers?
Yes. Caves Beach and Mollymook are both beginner-friendly, with gentler waves and sandy bottoms. Avoid Steamers Beach and Culburra Beach until you're comfortable paddling out and positioning yourself in the lineup.
How do you get to Jervis Bay from Sydney?
Jervis Bay is a 3-hour drive south of Sydney via the Princes Highway. Head through Wollongong and Kiama, then turn off toward Huskisson. There's no direct public transport, so you'll need a car.
Do you need a national park pass for the surf spots?
Only if you're surfing Caves Beach or Steamers Beach, which are both in Booderee National Park. The day pass is $13 per vehicle. Culburra Beach and Mollymook Beach have free access.
What other surf beaches are near Jervis Bay?
If you're keen to explore further, head north to the best surf beaches in Sydneyor south toward Ulladulla and Batemans Bay for more South Coast options.
