Jervis Bay: 90 per cent of new buyers in this town are from Sydney

As an island continent famed for its vast coastlines, the options may seem endless for Aussies who are re-evaluating their lives in the city with the dream of moving to the beach.

But if the clearest waters and whitest sands are on the agenda, Jervis Bay is your best bet.

Located just short of a three-hour drive from Sydney, this coastal cluster on the NSW South Coast boasts not only magnificent beaches and headlands but national parks, forests and rivers, too – the absolute antithesis of one’s urban sprawl woes.

Ticket to paradise

When imagining the ideal sea change, chances are it entails living in an idyllic beachside home, swapping the concrete jungle for nature’s paradise and belonging to a vibrant community.

If you ask Craig McIntosh of The Holidays Collection, the peaceful pocket of Jervis Bay enables just this.

“The area has always had a healthy mix of permanent residents, holidaymakers and navy staff due to the two navy bases, HMAS Albatross in Nowra and HMAS Creswell inside the Booderee National Park,” McIntosh says.

“But in recent years, there’s been a notable influx of sea changers moving to Jervis Bay to raise a family, work remotely, or retire, with around 90 per cent of these buyers coming from Sydney.”

While many may hesitate to make the jump, in fear of the unfamiliar and unknown, McIntosh advocates the allure of Jervis Bay’s coastlines and how they can encourage people to slow down and leave the hubbub of the city behind them.

“Jervis Bay holds all the qualities that foster a successful sea change,” he says. “Things are happening without being overdeveloped.

“It’s very family-friendly with excellent local public schools and private high school options in nearby Nowra, and there’s a good mix of homes that range from grand new builds to historic whalers’ cottages – all of which are never too far from the sand.”

Dose of vitamin sea

As the owner and operator of Jervis Bay Stand Up Paddle, perhaps there’s nobody more qualified to promote the area’s magnetic waters than Mason Keane, a paddle board and surf instructor who gives lessons to local school groups and endless visitors.

“I have lived here for 18 years with my wife Bronwyn, who is also a water lover,” he says. “When we were having children, the choice was between Margaret River, Jervis Bay or New Zealand to raise a family, and Jervis Bay won hands down.

“Both of our daughters have since been happily raised in and around these waters.”

Keane describes the local community as being wonderfully relaxed, friendly, and supportive. He speaks fondly of fellow local businesses in the area, including the valued cafes and restaurants, such as Jervis Bay Brewing Co and Flamin Galah Brewing Co.

“My advice when exploring our waters includes taking a stroll between Huskisson Sea Pool and Vincentia at low tide and hitting Caves beach for a surf before 10am in summer to avoid crowds and savour calm conditions,” he says.

“And while winter is obviously cooler, it’s the best time of year for serenity and great water clarity, so hire a clear-bottom kayak from us and get exploring.”

For sale in Jervis Bay right now..

SOLD - Price Withheld

1 Caroline Street, Vincentia NSW 2540

5

5

2

View property

This luxurious waterfront residence sets the scene with its double-iron-gate entry and striking exterior with splendid archways, reminiscent of sunny European homes. Inside, wide and open spaces flow throughout, highlighted by feature staircases, an oversized entertaining terrace with water views, and a gorgeous in-ground swimming pool.