13 cool things to do at the Beecroft Peninsula + Weapons Range
Where can you find this beautiful creek? Keep reading to find out. ©
Honeymoon Bay. Long Beach. Point Perp. You might have heard of these stunning landmarks nestled in the northern headland of Jervis Bay: The immaculate Beecroft Peninsula, including the sectioned-off Beecroft Weapons Range.
By Esta Pinto.
Without a doubt, this tiny corner of the NSW south coast is a mini gateway to escape the hordes of tourists and enter a world of serene natural beauty.
Known traditionally as Bundarwa, this peninsula holds deep historical and cultural significance for the Jerrinja community, the traditional owners of the land. Furthermore, it’s important to other individuals, sporting, recreation, environmental communities, and communities from Currarong, Callala Beach, Culburra Beach and surrounds. Access to most of the peninsula is limited by its ownership under the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). This section is called the “Beecroft Weapons Range.” Typically, access is available on Fridays and weekends, so make sure you plan your visit accordingly.
Outside of navy-owned land are the township of Currarong, Abrahams Bosom Reserve and NSW Crown land in the north, and a strip of Jervis Bay Territory (part of the ACT) along the south-eastern edge.
By all means, there are the mainstream popular beauties you’ll want to visit in this magical peninsula. But, there are also a few secret treasures waiting to be discovered beyond the more famed, which can be easy to overlook if you’re not well-versed in the area. I’ve included a few of my favourite enigmatic spots in my guide of the top things to see and do in the Beecroft Weapons Range and Peninsula, so keep reading.
Before we begin, I wish to acknowledge Brinja-Yuin, Budawang, Jerrinja, Murramarang, Walbunja, Wandandian, Wodi Wodi, Yuin and Yuin-Monaro people as the traditional owners of the South Coast NSW/Yuin country and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging. I honour the uninterrupted care, protection and belonging to these islands, skies and waterways, before the invasion and colonisation of European settlement. I honour their stories, songs, art, and culture, and their aspirations for the future of their people and these lands.
13 nice things to see & do in the Beecroft Weapons Range.
Whether you’re a hiker, camper, climber or looking to chill out on a nice beach, look no further than the below suggestions.
Beecroft Peninsula walks.
Target Beach.
An absolute gem. A four-kilometre return walk from the car park at the end of Honeymoon Bay Road, you’ll be rewarded beauty and seclusion walking the Target Beach track.
I’ve mentioned Target Beach in the Beecroft Peninsula before as one of the best beaches on the south coast of NSW -- and for good reason. It’s a slice of wholesome, blissful beach and nature heaven.
Difficulty: Moderate
2. Little Target.
Little Target, BWR. ©
You'll find Little Target Beach, located across the Duck Creek inlet from Target Beach. It’s even more uncrowded here, so if you truly want to escape, make your way here from Target Beach. To get to Little Target is a difficult rock scramble and is recommended only for people with at least an intermediate fitness and agility level.
Difficulty: Hard
3. Fishermans Beach.
Fisherman’s Beach. ©
If you’ve managed to make it to Little Target Beach, then a further rock scramble away is the tiny but beautiful Fisherman’s Beach. It’s luck of the draw and tides if it has enough sand for you to frolick around on the beach itself. But that’s part of the appeal.
Difficulty: Hard
4. Duck Creek.
Duck Creek can be found via Target Beach. ©
The sandy creek, known as “Duck Creek” spanning 300 meters behind the eastern portion of Target Beach, warrants a dedicated section in this Beecroft Peninsula guide. Unsurprisingly, while Target Beach steals the spotlight with its overwhelming splendour, Duck Creek deserves its own moment in the sun.
Remember to check it out if you’re at Target Beach already.
Difficulty: Moderate
5. Outer Tubes (Torpedo Tubes).
Outer Tubes / The Tubes / Torpedo tube, Beecroft Weapons Range. ©
Favoured by local fishermen for its land-based fishing opportunities, The Outer Tubes, or "The Tubes," trail starts pretty flat at first, but be ready for a sudden steep incline in the second half. It's a good idea to wear shoes with a solid grip to tackle the terrain.
To find the 2 km walking track to The Outer Tubes, head to the lighthouse car park. As you venture along the trail, get ready to appreciate fascinating rock formations and vibrant shades of water that await you when you descend a steep set of stairs. And for the daring adventurers out there, here's a tip: slip off to the left just before you reach the steel staircase and explore the wonders of the gully where the photo above was taken. Quite a cool secret spot in the south coast!
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
6. Silica Cove.
Silica Cove, St. Martin de Porres shipwreck. ©
Silica Cove. ©
Keep an eye out for feathery, scaly and furry friends on this banksia-filled trail to Silica Cove! This scenic 6km track commences along the same pathway that leads to Target, with a noticeable fork in the walking path indicating the direction towards Silica Cove. We spotted a red belly black snake basking peacefully in the sun, white-bellied sea eagles, and humpback whales, so animal enthusiasts will have a whale of time, no doubt.
Upon reaching the beach, don't forget to explore the shipwreck of the St. Martin de Porres, located on the northern section of the cove.
Difficulty: Moderate
7. Boat Harbour.
Alright, I have listed this in the “walks” section, but that’s because I haven’t got a “boating” section. (I wish I had the ability and lived experience to have a boat section!)
Anyway, during my experience of undertaking the Boat Harbour walk on a pleasant spring day, I encountered an overgrown, watery, and unpleasant trail. I was definitely apprehensive about stepping on a snake. I somehow made the walk all the way down to the beach at Boat Harbour and back without completely freaking out, although I was pretty baffled.
It’s uncertain how frequently the trail is maintained, and while it may have received attention since then, I can’t guarantee its current condition. Considering these factors, a more favourable option might be to bypass the 6km walk altogether and opt for arriving at the destination by boat instead.
Difficulty: Moderate to hard - maybe just come here by boat.
For more incredible walks on the south coast of NSW, check out this post.
Noteworthy places to see.
8. Long Beach.
Long Beach, South Coast. ©
Long Beach stands as a true gem within the remarkable Beecroft Weapons Range portfolio of beaches. Nestled across the bay from esteemed counterparts such as Hyam's Beach and Callala Beach, it shares the same white sand and strikingly crystalline blue waters.
On glorious days, it’s a good idea to arrive early, as this area quickly becomes a sought-after destination during the bustling summer holidays. While it may not experience the same level of overcrowding as the Booderee and Vincentia side of Jervis Bay, Long Beach is still notably a magnet for beach enthusiasts seeking a picturesque experience.
9. Point Perpendicular.
90 metres above sea level, a beautifully-maintained lighthouse on the tip of Point Perp awaits you. While there’s no access inside, this zone has spectacular vantage points for migratory whales, birds and other sea life from the point.
Point Perpendicular lighthouse and surrounds are a mecca for rock climbers seeking that perfect blend of challenge and beauty, notorious amongst climbers as having one of the most breathtaking backdrops in Australia. However, Beecroft Weapons Range makes it clear that any climbers do so at their own risk.
10. Honeymoon Bay.
Grounds near Honeymoon Bay. ©
Tucked adjacent to Bindijine Beach, Honeymoon Bay, NSW awaits with its small, picture-perfect semi-circular sheltered bay. Offering easy accessibility for families seeking a tranquil retreat, the bay’s calm waters are idyllic for snorkelling adventures, especially when there is crystal-clear visibility.
There’s just something magical about Honeymoon Bays, no matter whether it’s NSW or Honeymoon Bay in Tasmania.
11. Bindijine Beach.
Entrance to Bindijine Beach. ©
One of the most accessible beaches by car, Bindijine Beach is another stunning sandy white beach. As a bigger beach, it tends to be less crowded than Honeymoon Bay during peak seasons.
12. Cabbage Tree Beach.
Cabbage Tree Beach. ©
If you're looking to avoid the bustling crowds on a busy day, Cabbage Tree Beach is a prudent and similarly pleasing alternative to Long Beach.
While it may not enjoy the same level of fame as its prominent counterparts within the Beecroft Weapons Range, I think of Cabbage Tree as the more tranquil little sister of Long Beach, complete with an excellent little reef for snorkelling.
13. Fisho’s hut / Fisherman’s cave.
If you know, you know.
FAQs.
How to get to the Beecroft Peninsula and Weapons Range.
Drive like you’re driving to the small town of Currarong, along Currarong Road.
Then, turn right into Lighthouse Road into the Beecroft Weapons Range, marked clearly by signage.
Map directions
When is Beecroft Weapons Range open?
Beecroft Weapons Range is usually open to the public from Friday to Sunday, although this is subject to change due to military and range maintenance activities. For the most up-to-date opening hours, it’s best to visit their Facebook page here, where they regularly post opening hours.
Camping at Honeymoon Bay, Beecroft Peninsula, NSW.
Can you camp in the Beecroft Weapons Range? Yes! The good news is that you can camp at Honeymoon Bay in the Beecroft Weapons Range during school holidays and most weekends.
How to book Honeymoon Bay camping NSW
Campsites are available on weekends and school holidays which you can book via their website, here. My advice is to book way ahead in advance as possible, because you can bet that spots fill up pretty quickly. May the odds be ever in your favour!
Camping fees are payable in cash only at the Visitor Centre during office hours on weekdays and between 1 pm and 3 pm on weekends and public holidays.
Remember, you’ll need to bring your own water, toilet paper and gas-operated cooking equipment. Portable toilets, garbage and recycling bins are provided.
Read the official information brochure on Honeymoon Bay camping here.
Contact Beecroft Weapons Range:
Phone number: (02) 4448 3411
