Culburra Beach: A Hidden Gem Near Jervis Bay
Culburra Beach is a small, quiet beachside community on the northern shore of Shoalhaven Heads — separated from the rest of the world by Crookhaven Heads to the north and the broad Shoalhaven River to the south. Its relative inaccessibility means it stays uncrowded even when Hyams Beach and Huskisson are packed, and the long, gently sloping ocean beach is genuinely lovely.
| Location | North of Nowra, via Greenwell Point — 35–40 min from Huskisson |
|---|---|
| Beach Type | Ocean-facing, gently sloping, uncrowded |
| Best For | Uncrowded beach day, fishing, surfing, walking |
| Facilities | Toilets, small local shops, caravan park |
The Beach at Culburra
Culburra Beach faces the open Tasman Sea and has a long, straight stretch of clean sand. The beach is generally much quieter than the Jervis Bay beaches — even in summer, Culburra rarely feels crowded. The surf is gentle on most days, with a gradually sloping beach that makes for safe ocean swimming in moderate conditions. It's particularly good for families with older children who want more of an open ocean experience.
Getting to Culburra Beach
Culburra Beach is reached via Nowra and Greenwell Point — approximately 35–40 minutes from Huskisson. The access involves driving south along the Shoalhaven River estuary through Greenwell Point (known for its oyster farming). The drive itself is pleasant, through rural and waterway scenery very different from the national park environments of Jervis Bay.
Greenwell Point Oysters
A stop at Greenwell Point on the way to or from Culburra is worthwhile. The small fishing village is the oyster farming capital of the Shoalhaven — fresh oysters are available directly from farms and local outlets at excellent prices. Combining an oyster stop at Greenwell Point with a beach afternoon at Culburra makes for an excellent day trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Culburra Beach worth visiting from Jervis Bay?
- Yes — if you're looking for an uncrowded ocean beach experience, Culburra Beach is an excellent option. It's quieter than any of the Jervis Bay beaches and the combination with Greenwell Point oysters makes for a great day trip.