Coastal Forage

• experiencenature.au/product/forage
• 12 Sep 2026
• 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

At a Glance: The Event Snapshot

The Coastal Forage is Jervis Bay’s premier culinary adventure, combining a breathtaking coastal walk with a multi-course, locally sourced feast cooked right on the world-famous white sands. It is the ultimate weekend escape for food lovers looking to taste the very essence of the Shoalhaven region while surrounded by pristine, turquoise waters.

Welcome to the Forage: A Sensory Escape

Imagine stepping off the pavement and onto sand so white and fine it squeaks beneath your shoes. The air is thick with the smell of the salty ocean breeze, mingling perfectly with the irresistible, smoky aroma of fresh seafood sizzling over hot coals. This isn’t just a lunch; this is the Jervis Bay Coastal Forage—a vibrant celebration of nature, community, and spectacular local produce.

For weekenders escaping the concrete hustle of Sydney, the political buzz of Canberra, or the quiet of regional NSW, the Coastal Forage offers a complete reset. It’s an event that captures the true energy of the South Coast. You don’t just attend this event; you walk it, you smell it, and you taste it.

Picture this: you spend your late morning indulging in freshly caught, char-grilled octopus right by the water’s edge, listening to the gentle crash of the waves. Afterward, you can wander down the coastline to cool off in the famously clear, turquoise waters of Hyams Beach. It’s an immersive, barefoot luxury experience that turns a standard weekend trip into a lifelong memory.

The Deep Dive: Discovering the Coastal Forage

History & Heart

The Coastal Forage, masterminded by the team at Experience Nature, was born out of a profound respect for the Shoalhaven’s rich environment. It exists to bridge the gap between the stunning landscapes of Jervis Bay and the incredible local producers who harvest its bounty. It’s a celebration of sustainable foraging, local fishing, and artisanal farming, all brought together on nature’s most beautiful stage.

What to Expect: A Feast on the Sand

Prepare your senses for an unforgettable journey. As you arrive at the secret coastal location, the vibe is instantly relaxed yet buzzing with anticipation. Sun hats and linen shirts dot the shoreline, and the sound of acoustic music and clinking glasses sets the mood.

As captured in the spirit of the event, you’ll find pop-up charcoal grills right on the sand. Expert chefs baste thick, tender skewers of local octopus and marinated meats, the smoke curling up against a backdrop of endless blue ocean. You’ll stroll from station to station along the beach, sampling freshly shucked oysters, native-infused delicacies, and spectacular regional wines. It is an interactive, moving feast where you can chat with the chefs, meet the producers, and mingle with fellow culinary adventurers.

Who It’s For

• Couples: This is romance redefined. Forget stuffy fine-dining rooms; share a plate of freshly grilled seafood on a picnic blanket while watching the waves roll in. It’s the perfect anniversary gift or surprise date.

• Solo Adventurers & Foodies: If you are a culinary enthusiast, the communal nature of the event makes it incredibly welcoming. You’ll easily strike up conversations over shared wine and a mutual love for incredible food.

• Older Families/Adult Groups: While perhaps not suited for toddlers with short attention spans, it is an incredible day out for groups of friends, adult siblings, or parents traveling with older teenagers who appreciate great food and the great outdoors.

The Local Insider’s Edge

To make the most of your Coastal Forage experience, you need to know how the locals do it.

• Pro-Tips: Arrive hungry. Pace yourself at the first few food stations because the feast just keeps coming. Also, keep an eye out for the resident pods of dolphins that often cruise past the shoreline—they love to make a guest appearance during the event!

• Weather & Packing: Jervis Bay weather can be a mix of warm sunshine and cool coastal breezes. The secret is layers. Wear a light linen shirt or sundress, but bring a stylish windbreaker or cozy knit for the afternoon. Footwear is crucial: leave the heels at home. Opt for sandals, boat shoes, or just prepare to go barefoot on the sand! Always pack high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.

• Photography Spots: The ultimate photo op happens right at the grill stations. Get a low-angle shot of the sizzling seafood skewers with the turquoise ocean blurred in the background. For portraits, wait until the final hour of the event; the “golden hour” light reflecting off the white sand acts as a natural ring light, giving everyone a flawless, sun-kissed glow.

Stay with Experience Jervis Bay

An event this spectacular demands accommodation that matches the vibe. As your local experts, Experience Jervis Bay offers the ultimate basecamps to turn your Coastal Forage day trip into a luxurious weekend retreat.

The “Perfect Match” Recommendations

For Couples: The Romantic Retreats

After a day of indulging on the sand, retreat to one of our intimate beachfront studios. Imagine washing off the salt in a spa bath, pouring a glass of leftover regional wine, and watching the sunset from your private balcony overlooking the bay.

For Groups of Friends: The Entertainer’s Dream

Traveling with your favorite foodies? You’ll want a property that keeps the good times rolling. We offer stunning, sprawling coastal homes with massive outdoor decks, chef-grade kitchens (in case you get inspired to cook the next morning!), and plenty of bathrooms so everyone has space to get ready.

For Families & Pet Owners: The Coastal Backyards

If you’re bringing the whole crew—including the dog—we have you covered. While pets can’t attend the Forage itself, we have gorgeous, secure properties where your furry friend can relax. Choose a home with a massive, fully-fenced backyard just streets away from the pet-friendly beaches for your morning walks.

Beyond the Event: The “Long Weekend” Itinerary

Don’t just drive down for the afternoon; the traffic back to Sydney or Canberra on a Sunday afternoon is a notorious mood-killer. Book a 3-night stay with Experience Jervis Bay and truly unwind.

Pre/Post Event Ideas:

• Explore Booderee National Park: Spend your Sunday walking off the feast by hiking the trails at the ruined Cape St George Lighthouse, or discovering the hidden beauty of Green Patch.

• Take a Dolphin or Whale Cruise: Head down to Huskisson the morning after the Forage. Grab a coffee from a local roaster and jump on a cruise to see the bay’s marine life up close.

• Local Breweries: Keep the culinary tour alive by visiting one of the fantastic craft breweries in Huskisson or Vincentia for a relaxed Sunday session.

Practical & Technical Info

• Getting There: Jervis Bay is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Sydney (via the Princes Highway) and roughly 2.5 hours from Canberra.

• Parking & Accessibility: Exact meeting points are provided to ticket holders. Parking is usually available at nearby beach reserves, but we highly recommend carpooling or booking a local maxi-taxi. For guests with mobility concerns, contact the event organizers directly, as navigating soft sand is a core part of the event.

• Tickets: These events sell out months in advance. Secure your spot today: Visit the Experience Nature Website.