Fast facts
- Gateway to the aquatic playground of Jervis Bay
- Dolphin and whale watch centre for the Shoalhaven region
- 170 km south of Sydney, population 1,600
Why go there
Wrapped around the edge of majestic Jervis Bay, Huskisson is a natural magnet if you love water sports. Fishing, diving, snorkelling and sailing all rank high here while bayside beaches are well protected and great for families.
Migrating whales are often sighted inside the bay between May and November while fur seals and dolphins can be seen from cruise vessels based in Huskisson. This is Australia's most northerly fur seal colony, as well as the only mainland colony.
History
The Jervis Bay district was originally inhabited by the Dhurga Aborigines. European exploration began in 1812 and, in 1840, the town was established and named after William Huskisson, secretary of the colonies and leader of the House of Commons. Early explorers came to the area looking for timber and a shipbuilding industry was established in 1864. The timber industry was thriving by the 1880s and continued until 1966. One boat made locally in 1912, the Lady Denman ferry, which operated in Sydney Harbour, was towed back to Huskisson in 1981 to serve as a maritime museum.
Things to do
- Take a dolphin watch cruise and see the resident bottlenose dolphins at play.
- Join a snorkel or dive trip in the crystal clear waters of a marine reserve.
- Practice your boomerang throw at Laddie Timbery's Aboriginal Art and Craft Centre.
- Explore the heathlands and beaches of Booderee National Park, a pristine coastal wilderness south of Huskisson.
- Spend a day exploring the coast with the Jervis Bay Kayak Company.
Events
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The See Change Arts Festival in June brings together the highly talented artists of the region for 16 days of art shows, craft exhibitions, workshops and performances.
Don’t miss
- Fish and chips in the outdoor garden of the Jervis Bay Hotel, known locally as the Husky Pub.
- Picnics by the most beautiful beaches on the planet.
- Browsing for antiques at the Husky Trading Post.
- Learning to dive in Jervis Bay Marine Park.
