Adventure in Jervis Bay & Shoalhaven

Let your sense of adventure be your guide in Jervis Bay and the Shoalhaven region, as you uncover a natural wonderland brimming with wildlife, wilderness and waterways. Kayak among dolphins, climb dramatic rock formations, hike to scenic lookouts and explore beautiful bushland fringed by white sand beaches.

Go rock climbing

The Shoalhaven is a popular rock climbing destination, featuring quality rock surfaces, diverse climbing routes and stunning scenery. The region is rich in clean, hard sandstone, an ideal surface for all skill levels. Join a climbing tour with Outdoor Raw or Climb Nowra and a local guide will show you the best spots.

Boasting cliffs along the Shoalhaven River, Nowra is a climbing hotspot. Novice climbers can build their confidence at Hospital Rocks. More experienced climbers will enjoy the challenge of Point Perpendicular’s almost-vertical cliff face, at the northern entrance to Jervis Bay. The town of Vincentia is another favourite of bouldering enthusiasts.

Adventures on the water

With a tapestry of stunning coastline and idyllic waterways, the Shoalhaven is ideal for watersports. Dolphins often play in these ocean waters, and from May to November you may also spot a whale as you paddle. Sea Kayak Jervis Bay offers kayaking trips throughout Jervis Bay Marine Park. There’s plenty of adventure beneath the surface too, with diving and snorkelling tours for all levels.

You can also hire a kayak in the picturesque Kangaroo Valley, or meander down the Kangaroo River on a kayaking tour with Kangaroo Valley Kayaks. Paddle along Shoalhaven Gorge and set up camp upstream from Tallowa Dam. The area is known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, and is only accessible by kayak.

Other top spots for kayaking are Sussex Inlet, home to a network of tidal canals, and St Georges Basin, where you can spot black swans, pelicans and sea eagles. This giant coastal lake is also a great place for fishing. Enjoy sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing and bird-watching at Lake Wollumboola near Culburra Beach.

Walking tracks in national parks

The Shoalhaven region boasts nine national parks, making it an ideal destination for bushwalkers. If you’re coming from Canberra, go via the rejuvenating Morton National Park for scenic walks up Pigeon House Mountain and the spectacular Tianjara Falls. Don’t miss the unforgettable White Sands Walk, which begins in Vincentia.

High above the treetops

For a family-friendly adventure, check out Trees Adventure Nowra Park, a high ropes course right next door to Shoalhaven Zoo, where you can leap, swing and fly through the forest above the pretty Shoalhaven River. There are flying foxes, rope bridges and obstacles that both kids and adventurous adults will love.