Hole in the Wall

Overview

Hole in the Wall Beach wraps a pale ribbon of sand around a sandstone headland that once had a natural arch; the arch has since collapsed, leaving a dramatic U‑shaped gap that still steals the show. It sits between Green Patch and Murrays Beach with Scottish Rocks next door, so you can easily string a few coastal spots together.

Geology in a Nutshell

The headland is carved from Permian sandstones, siltstone and conglomerates at the southern edge of the Sydney Basin. Wind, waves and time did the sculpting—first creating an arch, then eroding it into today’s photogenic notch in the cliffs.

What You’ll See

• Wide Jervis Bay panoramas and layered rock textures perfect for minimalist compositions.
• Clear, inviting water; snorkelling can be lovely when conditions are calm.
• Occasional seaweed patches and natural “ocean” smells as you approach the rocks—normal for this stretch of coast.

Getting There

Drive into Booderee via Jervis Bay Road and look for signed roadside/lay‑by parking for Hole in the Wall. From the car park it’s about 400 m on a fairly even path to the sand, then roughly 300 m along the beach to the rock formation. There’s no public transport within the park; walking or cycling in is an option. A Booderee Parks Pass is required for vehicles; walkers and cyclists can enter free—check current details before you go.

Best Time to Visit

Time it for low tide—access is easiest and you’ll have more dry sand to work with. Photographers get soft light at sunrise (looking east) and warm glow at late‑afternoon golden hour; just remember the water tends to push higher on the beach toward sunset, so leave time for the walk back.

Photography & Snorkelling Tips

Bring a wide‑angle lens for the headland, plus a tripod if you like long‑exposure water blur. You can sometimes frame the rising sun through the gap. Pack snorkel gear if the bay is calm. If you fly a drone, make sure you comply with Booderee’s rules and any current restrictions.

Facilities (or lack thereof)

There are no toilets, showers or bins at the beach or rock. The nearest facilities are at Green Patch and Bristol Point (toilets and hot showers). Bring water, sun protection and take all rubbish out.

Safety & Tides

This is an easy outing but tides matter. At mid to high tide, waves can push right up to the rocks and dunes, slowing or wetting the return. Wear closed‑toe shoes—the rock and weedy patches can be slick—and avoid climbing unstable sections. In warmer months, stay alert for snakes and ticks in vegetated edges.