Your Complete Coastal Escape Guide, Powered by Trend Car Rentals
There’s nothing quite like waking up on a Sunday morning, grabbing the keys to a reliable rental car, and cruising down the coast toward the shimmering waters of Jervis Bay. Just three hours south of Sydney, Jervis Bay is one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal regions—home to white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and charming seaside towns that instantly put life into perspective.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxed day trip, a short weekend escape, or a full family coastal adventure, this road trip is the perfect combination of convenience, beauty, and flexibility. With the right vehicle from Trend Car Rentals, you can enjoy a smooth and scenic drive with comfort, space, and reliability.
This detailed guide covers everything you need to know for the ultimate Jervis Bay road trip—from the best stops along the Grand Pacific Drive to must-visit beaches, hidden lookouts, food stops, wildlife encounters, packing tips, and more.
Why Jervis Bay Is the Perfect Sunday Drive Destination
Jervis Bay is famous for some of the whitest sand in the world, peaceful National Parks, and picture-perfect swimming spots. It’s close enough to Sydney for a comfortable day trip, but still far enough away to feel like a completely different world.
Top Reasons It’s Ideal for a Sunday Drive
- ✔ Close to Sydney (2.5–3 hours depending on traffic)
- ✔ Easy, scenic roads with multiple photo stops
- ✔ Family-friendly beaches with calm, clear water
- ✔ Great for wildlife lovers—kangaroos, dolphins, wallabies, parrots
- ✔ Perfect for one-day or overnight escapes
- ✔ Accessible with any rental car, from economy to 4WD
- ✔ Incredible coastal stops that make the journey as good as the destination
To make your road trip easy, book a comfortable, reliable vehicle from Trend Car Rentals—ideal for long highway drives, coastal terrain, and family adventures.
The Scenic Route: Grand Pacific Drive (Highly Recommended)
If you want the most visually spectacular journey, skip the highway and take the Grand Pacific Drive, one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes. Starting in the Royal National Park, the drive takes you past dramatic cliffs, rolling ocean views, and charming surf towns.
Major Highlights on the Grand Pacific Drive
- Royal National Park
- Lush rainforest, ocean views, and the perfect place to kick-start your trip.
- Stop at Wattamolla Beach or the Figure Eight Pools if time allows.
- Sea Cliff Bridge
- An Instagram favourite—this 665-metre bridge curves over the ocean.
- Park at the northern end and take the stunning pedestrian walkway.
- Austinmer & Thirroul
- Beautiful beaches, coastal cafés and a great place for your first break.
- Kiama Blowhole
- A natural water show as the ocean explodes through rock crevices.
- Coolangatta Estate
- Perfect for wine lovers or a late-morning brunch.
Continue south toward Huskisson, Hyams Beach, and the jewel-like waters of Jervis Bay.
Jervis Bay Highlights – The Best Places to Visit
Once you arrive in Jervis Bay, the choices are endless. Here are the must-visit stops for your perfect Sunday drive.
1. Hyams Beach – Home of the Whitest Sand
You’ve probably heard the claims—Hyams Beach is often said to have the whitest sand in the world. Whether that’s officially true or not, there’s no denying it’s incredibly bright, clean, and soft.
What to do at Hyams Beach
- Swim in crystal-clear turquoise water
- Stroll the white sandy coastline
- Take the easy Hyams Beach Trail to Greenfield Beach
- Enjoy the peaceful, village-style atmosphere
Tip: Parking fills quickly—arrive early if you’re visiting in peak season.
2. Huskisson – The Heart of Jervis Bay
Huskisson (or “Husky” to the locals) is the main hub and the perfect stop for food, drinks, supplies, and snorkelling or wildlife cruises.
Things to do in Huskisson
- Book a dolphin-watching tour
- Enjoy brunch at local cafés like 5 Little Pigs
- Visit the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum
- Rent snorkelling gear
- Browse boutique coastal shops
If you’re spending Sunday afternoon enjoying water activities, Huskisson is a great base.
3. Booderee National Park – A Natural Wonderland
Booderee National Park is one of Australia’s most stunning coastal parks, jointly managed by Parks Australia and the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community.
Must-see places in Booderee
- Murrays Beach: A local favourite for snorkelling
- Cave Beach: Great for surfing and spotting wallabies
- Green Patch: Calm waters perfect for families
- Botanic Gardens: The only Aboriginal-owned botanic garden in Australia
Important: A park entry fee applies—so carry a card for payment.
4. Plantation Point
Plantation Point offers sweeping views of the bay and is home to picnic shelters, BBQs, and a family-friendly atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to stop for a late lunch before the drive back.
5. Vincentia – Quiet, Scenic, Relaxing
If you want quieter, more peaceful beaches away from the crowds, Vincentia offers calm bays and clean, well-maintained swimming areas.
Recommended Spots
- Collingwood Beach
- Barfleur Beach
- Orion Beach
Perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or picnicking.
Best Time to Visit Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is a year-round destination, but here’s what to expect:
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Hot weather, ideal for swimming. Busy season.
- Autumn (Mar–May): Warm water, fewer crowds, great weather.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Dolphin watching peak season.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers, marine life, mild temperatures.
For a relaxing, crowd-free Sunday drive, autumn and spring are perfect.
Suggested Itinerary – The Perfect Sunday Drive
If you’re heading out early on Sunday, this itinerary gives you the best highlights.
7:00 AM – Depart Sydney with your Trend Rentals vehicle
Start fresh with a comfortable rental car from Trend Car Rentals—ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers.
8:00 AM – Stop in Royal National Park
Stretch your legs and grab some morning photos.
9:15 AM – Sea Cliff Bridge
Walk the bridge for iconic views.
10:30 AM – Kiama Blowhole
Coffee stop + natural ocean spectacle.
12:00 PM – Arrive in Huskisson
Grab lunch and prepare for your beach time.
1:30 PM – Hyams Beach or Booderee National Park
Relax, swim, explore, and enjoy the sunshine.
4:00 PM – Plantation Point picnic
Perfect final stop before heading home.
5:30 PM – Depart for Sydney
Return relaxed, refreshed, and full of new coastal memories.
Best Vehicles for a Jervis Bay Road Trip
Depending on your group size and trip style, choose a vehicle that matches your comfort and storage needs.
Recommended Options from Trend Car Rentals
- SUVs: Best for comfort, space, and beach gear
- 4WDs: Great if you plan to explore nearby unsealed roads
- Sedans: Easy, affordable, and perfect for couples
- People Movers: Ideal for families or friend groups
Explore the full range at Trend Car Rentals.
Packing Checklist for Jervis Bay
Make the most of your Sunday trip with smart packing:
- Swimmers & towels
- Sunscreen & hats
- Reusable water bottles
- Foldable chairs or picnic blanket
- Snacks or packed lunch
- Snorkelling gear
- Camera or phone
- Car charger
- National Park entry money
- Light jacket for windier beaches
Where to Eat on Your Jervis Bay Road Trip
There are plenty of great food stops along the way and within Jervis Bay.
Along the Drive
- Scarborough Hotel – Cliff-top dining with ocean views
- Berry Donut Van – A classic sweet treat stop
In Huskisson
- 5 Little Pigs
- Pilgrims Vegetarian Café
- Salty Joe’s
- The Quarters Restaurant
Wildlife to Look Out For
Jervis Bay is one of Australia’s most diverse coastal ecosystems.
You might spot:
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Kangaroos and wallabies
- Sea eagles and local birdlife
- Possums
- Whales (during migration season)
Always keep a respectful distance when photographing wildlife.
Safety Tips For Your Sunday Drive
- Check traffic conditions ahead of time
- Keep an eye out for wildlife while driving
- Bring plenty of water—coastal areas can get hot
- Stay on designated paths in National Parks
- Avoid unsealed roads unless your rental car allows it
- Follow local signs for parking and beach access
For safe, reliable transport, book through Trend Car Rentals.
Final Thoughts – The Perfect Sydney to Jervis Bay Escape
A Jervis Bay road trip is the ideal way to spend your Sunday—sunshine, coastal air, turquoise waters, fresh food stops, and scenic roads make the journey unforgettable. It’s a relaxing, invigorating, and refreshing escape from Sydney’s busy pace, whether you’re going solo or with family.
With the right vehicle from Trend Car Rentals, you’ll enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey with total freedom to go wherever the coastline inspires you.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and set your GPS for Jervis Bay…
Your perfect Sunday drive awaits.