Sydney to Callala Bay (Jervis Bay): Visitor Travel Guide

For International Visitors Exploring Australia’s South Coast

Welcome! After arriving at Sydney Airport, this guide is designed to help you make the most of your journey to the stunning Jervis Bay region—ending in the peaceful seaside village of Callala Bay where the sailing club is.

Quick Overview

• Destination: Callala Bay, Jervis Bay (NSW South Coast)

• Distance: ~200 km from Sydney

• Drive Time: 2.5 to 4 hours (depending on route)

• Best For: Beaches, wildlife, national parks, coastal scenery, local culture

Choose Your Adventure: 3 Scenic Routes to Jervis Bay

Option 1: The Classic Coastal Route

(Via Royal National Park, Sea Cliff Bridge, Kiama, Gerringong, Berry)
Best for: Beaches, ocean views, laid-back towns, scenic photo stops
Drive Time: ~4 hours (with stops)

Highlights:

• Royal National Park

  • Australia's first national park, full of native bush, waterfalls, and beaches

  • Bald Hill Lookout for sweeping views of the Pacific and hang gliders

  • Optional walk to Wattamolla or the Figure Eight Pools (check tide times)

• Grand Pacific Drive

  • A coastal road that hugs cliffs and offers dramatic views

  • Walk across the Sea Cliff Bridge, a favourite photo spot

• Kiama

  • Famous for the Kiama Blowhole and smaller Little Blowhole

  • Relax in a seaside café or explore the coast on foot

• Gerringong & Gerroa

  • Beautiful beaches backed by rolling hills

  • Stop at Seven Mile Beach National Park for a picnic or a barefoot beach stroll

• Berry (optional)

  • A classic Aussie country town known for its sourdough bakery, shops, and charm

• Final Leg to Callala Bay

  • Continue through Nowra, then head east to Jervis Bay via Forest Road

Option 2: The Scenic Inland Route via Kangaroo Valley

Best for: Waterfalls, lush forests, countryside charm
Drive Time: ~4.5 hours (with scenic stops)

Highlights:

• Fitzroy Falls (Morton National Park)

  • Dramatic waterfall drop from a sandstone escarpment

  • Easy walking paths and elevated lookouts

• Kangaroo Valley

  • Surrounded by rainforest and rolling hills

  • Cross the heritage-listed Hampden Bridge

  • Great coffee shops and a quiet, rustic vibe

• Cambewarra Mountain Lookout

  • Sweeping views over Shoalhaven and Jervis Bay on a clear day

• Descent into Nowra

  • Rejoin the main road and head to Callala Bay via Greenwell Point Rd > Forest Rd

Note: This route includes some winding roads—best for confident drivers or those who enjoy a slower, scenic pace.

Option 3: The Direct Route (Fastest)

Best for: Getting there efficiently
Drive Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Route:

• Depart Sydney Airport via the M5 Motorway / M31 (Hume Highway)

• Join the Princes Highway (A1) heading south

• Drive through Wollongong, Albion Park, and Nowra

• Turn off at Forest Road to reach Callala Bay

Optional Quick Stops:

• Sublime Point Lookout (Bulli Tops) – A short detour for epic views

• Berry – A quick bakery or café break before the final stretch

Why Choose This Route?

• Ideal for those arriving late, on a tight schedule, or driving after dark

• The simplest, most direct route—no complex turns or detours

Arrival in Callala Bay (Jervis Bay)

• Callala Bay & Callala Beach

  • Safe swimming beaches with calm, clear water

  • Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, or sunrise beach walks

  • Quiet and relaxed compared to more touristy towns

• Nearby Huskisson (20 mins away)

  • Whale & dolphin cruises

  • Local shops, eateries, and cultural experiences

• Booderee National Park (Jervis Bay Territory)

  • Aboriginal-owned park with stunning beaches and bushwalks

  • Explore Hyams Beach, Green Patch, and Murrays Beach

  • Visit the Botanic Gardens and learn about local Indigenous culture

Tips for International Visitors

• Drive on the left-hand side in Australia

• Wildlife crossing: Kangaroos and wombats may be on the road, especially at dawn/dusk

• Download maps offline before leaving Sydney—coverage may be limited in national parks

• Entry passes: Booderee National Park requires a park entry fee (purchase online or at the gate)

• Weather: Summer is best for swimming and outdoor activities; bring a light jacket for coastal evenings

Summary Table: Routes at a Glance