Surfing Near Jervis Bay: Where to Find Waves on the South Coast
One of the only things Jervis Bay's protected inner bay lacks is surf — the same calm conditions that make it perfect for families, snorkelling, and kayaking mean there's no wave action on the main bay beaches. However, the broader Jervis Bay and South Coast area has several good surf beaches within easy driving distance. Cave Beach (inside Booderee National Park) is the closest surf option to Huskisson, while Currarong, Collingwood Beach at Nowra, and the beaches further south around Ulladulla provide additional options for surfers who need their wave fix.
| Closest Surf | Cave Beach, Booderee NP (20 min from Huskisson) |
|---|---|
| Other Options | Currarong, Collingwood Beach, Ulladulla beaches |
| Surf Lessons | Occasionally available — check current operators |
| Note | Inner bay beaches (Hyams, Huskisson, Callala) have no surf |
Cave Beach — Closest Surf to Huskisson
Cave Beach in Booderee National Park is the most accessible surf beach from Huskisson — approximately 20 minutes drive (Booderee day pass required). The beach faces the open ocean and receives consistent swell from the south and east. The break is generally manageable for intermediate surfers on small to moderate swell days. On larger swell days, the beach can produce more powerful waves suited to experienced surfers. The beach is unpatrolled and relatively remote, so self-sufficiency and good surf judgment are required.
Further Afield
For more consistent or better-quality surf, the beaches south of Jervis Bay toward Ulladulla offer more options. Penguin Head at Culburra Beach is accessible from Nowra and can provide quality surf in good swell. The Ulladulla area (approximately 1 hour from Huskisson) has several surf beaches including Mollymook Beach (patrolled) that are excellent for families and surfers of all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you surf at Hyams Beach or Huskisson?
- No — Hyams Beach and Huskisson Beach are on the protected inner bay and have no surf. The water is flat and calm, ideal for swimming and snorkelling but not surfing.