Fact Sheets & Video - New South Wales

Have you ever noticed how many towns in Australia have a claim to fame? How about; "Pelican Capital of Australia", "Home of Australia's biggest prawn", "Tidiest town", "Australia's best fish & chips"

Well, one quirky claim has been circulating for many years now about Hyams Beach on the South Coast of NSW. It boasts of having "The World's Whitest Sand". Word is that the Guinness Book of Records have even listed the beach, for this very claim.

But with no confirmation on the record from the Guinness People, it appears the claim may just be a good old 'Urban myth'. Or is it?

Hyams Beach, 2.5 hours south of Sydney, is one of a cluster of villages on the shores of Jervis Bay, surrounded by some of the most pristine coastal landscapes on the south-eastern seaboard. Sitting adjacent to Jervis Bay (Booderee) National Park, by the shores of Jervis Bay Marine Park (one of only three Marine Parks in NSW), Hyams is unspoilt, tranquil and picturesque.

Jervis Bay is reputed to have the clearest waters and whitest sands not only in this country but also in the world.

These beautiful blue waters are home to many dolphins and the opportunity to sight these graceful locals is one of the major features that make this area a magnet for lovers of nature.

Whale sighting is also frequent in Jervis Bay and the choices of water sports here are wide. Many people come to dive, fish and explore these famous waters. None go home disappointed. The beach has even been voted in the world's top ten beaches!

The tiny village is home to the Hyams Beach Caf & General Store, which provides most of the immediate needs of the short term visitor. Accommodation at Hyams, itself, is limited to holiday homes and a few B&Bs and holiday cabins, but neighbouring towns, such as Huskisson and Vincentia, offer a wider variety of options.

As for that white sand claim, you might just have to visit and decide for yourself!

Contacts & Costs:

Jervis Bay Motel - SPECIAL OFFER for the first 100 callers: $155 a night twin share. Includes: Breakfast, Bottle of Wine and Chocolates, Dolphin Watch Cruise, 25% off meal at Seagrass Cafe. Conditions Apply.

Call 1300 662 808 to take advantage of this offer. 41 Owen Street, HUSKISSON. Ph: (02) 4441 5781

Hyams Beach Caf and General Store - 78 Cyrus St, Hyams Beach. Open for Breakfast and lunch 7 days a week and dinner Thurs, Fri, Sat in Jan, as well as stocking a range of groceries. Ph: (02) 4443 3874.

Hyams Beach Real Estate - 76-78 Cyrus St, Hyams Beach. Ph: (02) 4443 0242.