Holiday houses in Callala Beach

This sleepy pocket of Jervis Bay boasts all the blindingly white sands for which the South Coast of New South Wales is known — more than 100 beaches in Shoalhaven alone — but minus the crowds that frequent its better-known neighbours like Hyams Beach just to the south. Hugging a gentle curve toward the top of Jervis Bay Marine Park, Callala Beach is the perfect base for those looking to swim, surf, snorkel, dive, kayak, fish, stand-up paddleboard, take a sunset cruise, and just about every activity involving water that you can imagine.

But what sets the town apart is the fact that it is surrounded by national parkland and wildlife reserves, making it a true beach-meets-bush destination with plenty of Aussie swagger. With nature, adventure, art, wine, and wildlife aplenty, Callala Beach could be the ultimate off-the-radar destination to while away a few days (or even a week) on the South Coast.

Whether you’re surfing, swimming, or diving, life here revolves around the water. So it comes as no surprise that peak season is summer, from December through February. The other waterborne attractions are watching migrating humpback and southern right whales, which steam up and down the east coast of Australia from May through November. Accompanying this leg of their journey by Jervis Bay are year-round resident bottlenose dolphins. If you’re someone who enjoys hiking, visit during the shoulder months of spring (September through November) or autumn (March through May) for cooler temperatures and plenty of colour, thanks to wildflowers and the fiery hues of deciduous trees.

Booderee National Park

On the southern curve of Jervis Bay, you’ll find the only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in the country within the wondrous Booderee National Park. The focus here is on native flora, and you’re sure to discover many interesting species, including medicinal plants used by the Koori tribe. The reserve is also home to Cave Beach, popular among surfers, who descend for the waves, then linger for the chance to glimpse dolphins, fur seals, and echidnas.

Jervis Bay Marine Park

The 215-square-kilometre Jervis Bay Marine Park is a haven for seals, dolphins and penguins, plus migrating whales. You’ll spot many of these majestic marine creatures from lookouts around the shore, or while diving, snorkelling, kayaking, or cruising around the coast.

White Sands Walk

If you can tear yourself away from Callala, discover more of the state’s blissful beaches on the White Sands Walk, a 90-minute loop linking the town of Vincentia with Greenfield Beach. Be sure to wear your swimsuit under your hiking gear, as stretches of sand and surf dot your path, offering a stop and a swim.