Cave Beach is a picturesque beach in the Jervis Bay Territory, which was set aside from New South Wales to give the landlocked Canberrans easy access to the beach. Its turquoise waters, rolling waves and small tidal creek, make it a popular spot with walkers, young families and surfers.
The right-hand point break waves of this calmer bay just south of Jervis Bay attract keen surfers. As the name suggests, there is a cave here too, although it isn’t very big. Keep watch for kangaroos, snakes and other iconic Australia wildlife as you walk the trails and explore the rocks around the cave.
You can also swim and body board in the bay on a hot day, as long as you look out for rips and big swells. Look for migrating whales, which regularly cruise by or frolic in Jervis Bay.
The kids can build sandcastles by the shallow creek, which looks brown due to the tannins of the coastal tea trees but is safe to splash around in. Walk up to the lookout or to the nearby swamp or hike to Bherwerre Beach if you are feeling active.
Cave Beach is on the southern edge of Booderee National Park, which is managed by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, the traditional custodians of the land. Join their bush tucker walks to learn how to identify edible plant species and insects. Kids can partake in Koori games and everyone is welcome to listen to campfire yarns at night.
You can get to Cave Beach from the southern New South Wales border by driving along the Jervis Bay Road into the Jervis Bay Territory and turning right into Cave Beach Road. Walk all the way past the camping ground to reach the beach along a sandy, sometimes steep path.
The Cave Beach Camping Area has secluded spots for camping among the tea trees. You have to carry all your gear there from the parking lot, so most people bring small tents. There are cold showers, fresh water, composting toilets, shelters with gas barbecues and also wood barbecue spots on site, but no electricity or cell phone reception.
