Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is a world-renowned diving destination on the south coast of New South Wales, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and the incredible biodiversity within the Jervis Bay Marine Park. Its unique underwater topography features dramatic drop-offs, fascinating sea caves, and extensive rocky reefs teeming with life. With over 16 distinct dive sites, the bay offers a remarkable variety of underwater landscapes, from sheltered coves perfect for beginners to exhilarating drift dives along its towering sea cliffs. This combination of pristine conditions and geological diversity makes it a premier spot for temperate water diving.

Diving in Jervis Bay is excellent year-round, with conditions generally protected from open ocean swells. Water temperatures are cooler, but the visibility is often spectacular, sometimes exceeding 30 meters. Divers flock here to encounter the resident Australian fur seals, weedy sea dragons, giant cuttlefish, and a vibrant array of fish species like the Eastern Blue Groper. Whether you're a novice looking for a calm introduction to diving or an experienced diver seeking unique macro life and stunning seascapes, Jervis Bay's accessibility and rich marine environment make it an unmissable Australian dive destination.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Jervis Bay, Australia?
The Docks is arguably the most popular and iconic dive site in Jervis Bay, Australia. It is renowned for its dramatic underwater cliffs, numerous swim-throughs, and a large, playful colony of Australian fur seals. Its accessibility and the sheer abundance of marine life, including weedy sea dragons and colourful sponges, make it a must-do for visiting divers of all experience levels.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Jervis Bay, Australia?
Well-known sites include The Docks for its seals and Point Perpendicular for its dramatic walls. For something less crowded, explore Stoney Creek, which offers fantastic macro life and is great for spotting weedy sea dragons. Another hidden gem is The Arch, a stunning natural rock formation underwater that provides beautiful photo opportunities and shelters a variety of fish and invertebrates.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Jervis Bay, Australia?
Water temperatures in Jervis Bay, Australia, vary seasonally. In summer (December-February), expect 20-23°C (68-73°F). Autumn (March-May) sees temperatures between 18-21°C (64-70°F). Winter (June-August) is the coldest period, with temperatures dropping to 14-17°C (57-63°F). Spring (September-November) gradually warms up from 16-19°C (61-66°F).
When is the best time to visit Jervis Bay, Australia?
Diving is possible year-round in Jervis Bay, Australia. The best overall period is often autumn (March-May), offering a great balance of warm water and excellent visibility. Summer provides the warmest water but is a peak tourist season. Winter boasts the clearest visibility, often exceeding 30 meters, but requires a thicker wetsuit. Spring sees warming waters and the peak of the whale migration.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Jervis Bay, Australia?
Visibility in Jervis Bay, Australia, is typically excellent, averaging between 15 and 25 meters throughout the year. During the winter months (June-August), the cooler water often brings exceptionally clear conditions, with visibility frequently exceeding 30 meters. Visibility can be temporarily reduced in shallower, inshore sites after periods of heavy rainfall.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Jervis Bay, Australia?
Yes, Jervis Bay, Australia, hosts significant seasonal events. Humpback whales migrate north from May to August and return south with their calves from September to November. During winter (June-August), giant cuttlefish aggregate in the shallows to mate, creating a spectacular sight. Port Jackson sharks also gather to breed from late winter into spring. Australian fur seals are present year-round.
What marine life can I expect to see in Jervis Bay, Australia?
Jervis Bay, Australia, is rich with marine life. Expect to see playful Australian fur seals, the iconic weedy sea dragon, and giant cuttlefish. The reefs are home to Eastern Blue Gropers, Port Jackson sharks, wobbegongs, colourful nudibranchs, and large schools of reef fish. Dolphins are common, and migrating humpback whales are a regular sight from May to November.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Jervis Bay, Australia?
A 7mm wetsuit with a hood and gloves is recommended for year-round diving comfort in Jervis Bay, Australia, especially for the winter months when water is 14-17°C. Some divers prefer a semi-dry suit in winter. In the warmest summer months, when water temperatures reach 23°C, a 5mm full wetsuit is generally sufficient for most divers.
How do I get to Jervis Bay, Australia?
Jervis Bay, Australia, is located about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive south of Sydney. The most common way to get there is by renting a car from Sydney Airport (SYD). This provides the flexibility to travel to the main town of Huskisson, where most dive operators are based, and to explore the Booderee National Park and its beautiful beaches.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Jervis Bay, Australia?
All diving in Jervis Bay, Australia, is shore-based. There are no liveaboard vessels that operate exclusively within the bay. Divers stay in local accommodation in towns like Huskisson or Vincentia and book daily boat trips with one of the local dive centers. Several sites are also accessible for shore diving, offering flexibility for certified divers with their own gear.
All Dive Sites in Jervis Bay (14)
Blenheim BeachDrum And DrumsticksGreen Patch BeachGreenfields BeachHoneymoon BayHyams BeachLittle Hyams Beach Hyams PointMurrays BeachMystery Wreck Callala BeachShark Net BeachSlot CaveThe DocksThe NurseryTss Merimbula