The October long weekend is the unofficial start of the good season on the South Coast. The Labour Day holiday lands on Monday 5 October, giving you three days, and Jervis Bay in early spring is warm, bright and blissfully uncrowded. It is the ideal weekend getaway before the summer rush arrives.
Here’s how to make the most of three days down here.
Warm days made for the outdoors
By October the chill has lifted, the water is warming and the whole bay feels like it is waking up.
This is prime walking weather. Take on the White Sands Walk between Greenfield and Hyams Beach, or head into Booderee National Park for the trails to Murrays Beach and the Hole in the Wall. The spring bush is green and full of birdsong, the light is soft, and you can actually enjoy the climb without the summer heat. Pack a hat and reef-safe sunscreen, because the UV is stronger than the mild temperatures suggest.
Catch the last of the whales
October sits in the golden window of whale season.
Humpbacks are heading south now, often with newborn calves in tow, and they tend to travel slower and closer than on the way up. A morning cruise out of Huskisson gives you a strong chance of a memorable sighting, and the resident dolphins almost always join in. Book ahead for the long weekend, as boats fill fast.
Beaches before the crowds
The famous white beaches are at their best right now: warm enough to enjoy, quiet enough to breathe.
Spread out on Hyams or Greenfield, paddle the calm water at Murrays Beach, or find a quiet cove near Vincentia. You can still snag a parking spot and a stretch of sand to yourself, which is a luxury that disappears by December. Swim if you are brave, or just soak up the view.
Long lunches in Husky
Three days is enough to slow right down, and a long weekend down here is half beach, half cafe table.
Huskisson, Husky to the locals, is the social heart of the bay. Wander the main strip for coffee and brunch, browse the shops, and settle in at the pub for a lazy lunch with a water view. If a local market lines up with your stay, go, they are a great way to pick up regional produce and get a feel for the place.
Where to stay for the long weekend
The trick to a great long weekend is a comfortable base you actually want to come back to.
Travelling as a couple or small group? Heart of Husky puts you in the heart of Huskisson, a short stroll from the cafes and the water. Bigger crew or a family? Daffodil on Owen sleeps eight across four bedrooms in the Huskisson CBD. Prefer the quiet western side? Erowal Bay Cottage sits waterside, and Killarney at Old Erowal Bay sleeps eight for larger groups.
Each home is fully self-contained with a kitchen, laundry and off-street parking, so you can cook, unwind and settle in for three easy days.
Book your October long weekend
Warm days, whales offshore, quiet beaches and long lunches, all without burning your leave. The October long weekend is the Jervis Bay weekend getaway to beat.
It books out earlier than people expect. Have a look at our four self-contained properties and lock in your dates while the best ones are still open.
