Go Whale Watching in Jervis Bay

From its pristine white sands to dip-worthy shallow waters, Jervis Bay is easily one of NSW’s most beautiful beaches. But its main draw isn’t just the stunning scenery; it’s the mesmerising annual spectacle of thousands of whales leaping and dancing across the waves.

Known as the halfway point of the Humpback Highway, Jervis Bay sees around 30,000 whales pass through between May and November each winter and spring. Its warm, crystal-clear waters and protected marine area are the perfect place for whales to rest before continuing their migration journey. Just three hours’ drive and 228km from Canberra’ Jervis Bay can be reached in one EV charge.

Where are the best whale watching locations at Jervis Bay?

From land, there are plenty of great vantage points for whale watching around Jervis Bay and the greater Shoalhaven region. Make a beeline for headland locations like Crookhaven Heads Lighthouse and Culbarra Beach for prime whale sighting spots. Here you’ll enjoy excellent whale views.

The clifftops at Cape St George Lighthouse and Point Perpendicular Lighthouse at the southern tip of Beecroft Peninsula also offer amazing whale watching opportunities where you can observe them make their epic journey.

Can I take a whale watching cruise?

The best way to get up close and personal with whales themselves is by boarding a whale watching cruise. Here you’ll witness their gentle might as they leap into the air, and see newborn calves playing with their mothers.

Most cruises operate out of the village of Huskisson. You can expect about two hours on board as you learn about the history of humpback whales in the region and feel the ocean spray as they crash into the water close by. Out of season, many whale watching cruise operators run dolphin or sunset cruises instead.

What other marine life can I see at Jervis Bay?

Whales may call in to Jervis Bay just once a year, but it’s home to an incredible array of marine life all year round. Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins live and feed around nearby reef systems, and can often be seen racing, playing and diving in the waves.

Cast your eye out across Shoalhaven’s rugged shoreline and you’ll likely spot fur seals hanging out at both of Jervis Bay’s two headlands. One of the rarest seal species in the world, you have the opportunity to swim with Australian fur seals by booking a specialist diving trip.

Jervis Bay at a glance

  • Jervis Bay is 228km from Canberra.
  • Each year between May – November humpback whales call into Jervis Bay in the middle of their annual migratory journey.
  • You can go whale watching from the land or on a whale watching cruise.
  • Look out for other marine life like dolphins and fur seals while around Shoalhaven.

Who is Jervis Bay good for?

Children and adults of all ages and fitness levels, marine life enthusiasts, groups and retirees.

About the ActewAGL evHub

There are now over 20 models of electric vehicles that can go 400kms in a single battery charge ensuring an EV fits seamlessly into your leisure lifestyle. If you need help to find an EV, finance an EV or charge an EV, then visit the ActewAGL evHub today.

For those with an EV, listed below are the three charging stations along the way to help with planning your trip.

Hotel Realm Canberra
Tesla 2 Plugs 22 kW2 Stations
Tesla Destination

18 National Circuit Canberra 2600 ACT


Knightsbridge Canberra Apartments
Wall (AU/NZ) 12 Plugs12 Stations
Non-networked

3 Leichhardt St Kingston 2604 ACT


Contentious Character 
Wall (AU/NZ) 2 Plugs2 Stations
Non-networked

810 Norton Road Wamboin 2620 NSW