With its almost endless coastline serving up some of the most stunning and diverse beach camping experiences in the world, Australia is the camping family’s dream destination. 

From the rugged beauty of Western Australia to the tropical paradises of Queensland, beach camping sites across the country provide adventurers with unique opportunities to sleep under the stars — and wake up to the sound of waves. To help you plan the most amazing off-road beach holiday for the whole family, this guide explores the best spots for camping on the beach. 

Pebbly Beach – Yuraygir National Park, NSW 

Nestled in the heart of Yuraygir National Park, Pebbly Beach is loved (quite rightly so) for its picturesque setting and direct beach access. While not directly on the shoreline, the campsite’s close proximity to the beach offers a perfect blend of bush and beach camping. It’s an ideal location for families seeking adventure with the comfort of facilities nearby.

Stockton Beach, NSW 

Stockton Beach is a little slice of ocean paradise for adventurers looking to camp directly on the beach. Famous for its sprawling sand dunes this site offers a unique camping experience where you can wake up to sunrise over the ocean. Access is easy for most vehicles, though the soft sand closer to the camping areas suggests caution for those without four-wheel drive. 

North Stradbroke Island, QLD 

Serving up some of Queensland’s most beautiful beach camping, North Stradbroke Island in Naree Budjong Djara National Park has plenty of sites with direct beach access. It’s a paradise for families and surfers alike, with clear waters and white sand beaches. The island is accessible by ferry, and while some sites may require a bit of a trek, the secluded beaches are worth the effort. 

Teewah Beach Camping – Cooloola Recreation Area, QLD 

Teewah Beach Camping within the Cooloola Recreation Area provides a raw family family-friendly camping experience on the beach. This site is particularly popular among four-wheel drive enthusiasts, as access is directly on the sand. The stunning location offers miles of coastline to explore, making it perfect for long beach walks and fishing. 

Gunn Point – On the Gunn Point Peninsula, NT

Located on the picturesque Gunn Point Peninsula and offering secluded beach camping sites, Gunn Point is a hidden gem with direct beach access, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. Access can be challenging and is best suited for four-wheel drives, adding to the site’s sense of adventure.

Belvidere Beach – Leschenault Conservation Park, WA 

A tranquil spot for beach camping with the campsite located just a short walk from the beach, Belvidere Beach is a fab off-track camping spot. This site is fantastic for families and individuals looking to enjoy a peaceful camping experience with the convenience of nearby facilities and easy beach access. 

Steep Point – Shark Bay, WA 

Steep Point, the westernmost point of Australia located in Shark Bay, offers rugged and remote beach camping sites. Access is strictly for four-wheel drives due to the challenging terrain. It’s an adventurer’s paradise, offering stunning views and a feeling of being at the edge of the world. 

Perlubie Beach Campground – Eyre Peninsula, SA 

Perlubie Beach gives off-road campers the unique opportunity to set up right on the white sandy beach. The site offers stunning ocean views and easy access to the water, making it a favourite among both families and solo travellers. The access is straightforward, with no need for a four-wheel drive.

Little Dip Conservation Park, SA 

Little Dip offers a mix of bush and beach camping experiences with several sites providing direct access to secluded beaches. The park’s rugged coastline and diverse landscapes make it a must-visit for nature lovers. Access varies across the sites, with some requiring four-wheel drive. 

Portland Dunes, Victoria 

Portland Dunes is the only place in the state where you can legally drive on the dunes – coupled with a small campground for beach camping. It’s an exhilarating destination for those looking to combine their love for four-wheel driving with camping. The campground offers easy access to the beach, making it a unique spot for adventure seekers. 

What To Take on Your Off-grid Beach Holiday 

To ensure your beach holiday is as perfect as the postcards suggest, packing the right items can make all the difference. From essential gear that keeps your devices powered to comfort items ensuring your seaside stay is nothing short of spectacular, here’s what you should consider packing. 

● Portable Power Station: Essential for keeping your electronic devices charged, from smartphones to cameras, ensuring you capture every moment. 

● Foldable Solar Panels: Harness the power of the sun to recharge your portable power station, eco-friendly and perfect for long beach days. 

● Portable Fridge: Keep your food fresh and drinks chilled, enhancing your beach picnics and ensuring hydration and nutrition are always at hand. 

● Jerry Cans for Water: Stay prepared with ample fresh water supply for drinking, cooking, and cleaning, especially in remote beach areas. 

● Compact Cooking Facilities: Portable stoves or grills make cooking a breeze, allowing for delicious meals with the backdrop of the ocean. 

● Durable Beach Shelter: A sturdy beach tent or umbrella offers a respite from the sun, ensuring comfort during the hottest parts of the day. 

● Lightweight, Comfortable Seating: Foldable chairs or beach mats provide a comfortable seating option, perfect for lounging or dining by the sea. 

● Water Sports Equipment: Depending on your interests, pack snorkels, bodyboards, or kayaks to explore the waters and add an element of adventure to your holiday.

Each of these destinations offers something unique for beach camping enthusiasts, from the serene and family-friendly to the remote and adventurous. Whether you’re looking to surf, fish, explore, or simply relax to the sound of the waves, Australia’s beach camping sites have it all. Remember to check access requirements and campsite facilities before heading out to ensure the best possible camping experience and to carry all of the off-grid essentials for uninterrupted adventures by the sea. Looking for a more in-depth guide to heading off the grid? Be sure to check out this blog for more.

Camping with family is an unforgettable experience that creates lasting memories. When venturing off-grid with kids, the adventure takes on a new level of excitement and challenge. 

Keeping the little ones comfortable, entertained, and safe while embracing the wilderness requires careful planning and the right gear. Here’s a guide to mastering off-grid camping with kids, focusing on the essentials that ensure a fun, stress-free experience for the whole family. 

The Ultimate Camping with Kids Checklist 

Adventurous parents know that the key to a successful family camping experience lies in preparing for comfort, convenience, and entertainment—all while keeping the spirit of adventure alive. To ensure your journey into the wilderness is memorable for all the right reasons, here’s a checklist tailored for the daring family ready to explore the great outdoors.

1. Portable Power Station: Vital for powering up all your devices and small appliances. Opt for a versatile 12V power source like PDH or ArkPak to keep everything from fridges to gadgets running smoothly. 

2. Food Storage: Invest in a high-quality portable fridge/freezer to keep your adventurous meals fresh and drinks chilled. 

3. Interactive Entertainment Kit: Pack engaging books, travel-sized board games, and rugged outdoor toys to encourage creativity and physical play. Include solar chargers to keep electronic devices ready for action. 

4. Outdoor Hygiene Kit: A collapsible bucket, biodegradable soap, and eco-friendly wipes will help keep your explorers clean after a day full of adventures. 

5. Adventure Comforts: Lightweight sleeping bags, travel pillows, and a cosy blanket or two for star-gazing or wrapping up by the campfire. 

6. Explorer Safety Pack: A well-stocked first aid kit, natural insect repellent, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and emergency whistles are essentials for keeping the adventure safe. 

7. Water Purification System: Ensure a supply of clean drinking water with portable filtration systems or purification tablets. 

8. Durable Kids’ Camping Gear: Kid-sized backpacks, headlamps, and all-terrain footwear empower them to take on the outdoors confidently. 

9. Navigation Tools: Teach your kids the basics of navigation with maps, a compass, and if age-appropriate, a GPS device. 

10. Eco-Friendly Toiletries: Don’t forget toothbrushes, toothpaste, and toilet paper that respect the environment you’re exploring. 

The right gear can make all the difference, turning challenges into adventures and discomfort into memorable moments. So pack your bags, double-check your list, and set off with confidence knowing you’re equipped for whatever the wilderness throws your way. Here’s to the stories you’ll tell and the memories you’ll cherish from this adventure into the great outdoors with your little explorers by your side.

Incorporating Little Comforts into the Great Outdoors 

Maintaining aspects of your child’s normal routine is crucial for a smooth camping experience, particularly when transitioning them from the comfort of home to the unpredictability of the outdoors. 

This sense of familiarity amidst the unknown helps children adapt to their new environment more readily, ensuring they feel secure and content. From sticking to regular meal and snack times with their favourite foods to replicating bedtime rituals under the stars, these small acts of consistency play a significant role. 

● Sleeping Arrangements: Mimic bedtime routines as closely as possible. Portable nightlights and familiar bedtime stories can help. 

● Meal Times: Stick to regular meal and snack times. A portable camping stove and a fridge connected to your 12V power source can help in preparing familiar foods.

● Hygiene Routines: Even off-grid, maintain regular hygiene routines. Portable camping toilets and privacy tents can address bathroom concerns in areas without facilities.

Packing Tips and Ideas for Entertainment 

Packing efficiently can make or break your camping experience. Use clear, labelled containers for easy access to clothes, food, and toys. Encourage older children to pack their backpacks with essentials and favourite items, giving them a sense of responsibility and involvement. 

For entertainment, balance screen time with outdoor activities. Bring along nature guides, binoculars, and trail maps to encourage exploration. Simple craft supplies can turn nature finds into art projects, and a telescope can make stargazing a magical experience. 

The Importance of 12V Power When Camping Off-Grid 

A reliable 12V power source like PDH or ArkPak becomes the heart of your campsite, especially when camping with kids. It powers essential devices like fridges for fresh food, portable stoves for cooking, and chargers for entertainment devices. Moreover, it ensures safety by keeping communication devices powered in case of emergency. 

Remember, the goal of camping with kids is to create joyful memories while instilling a love for the outdoors. Ensuring comfort through small luxuries powered by reliable 12V sources can make the experience enjoyable for everyone. From keeping their favourite snacks fresh to powering a small fan on a hot night, these conveniences make the wilderness feel like a home away from home. 

A Blend of Preparation and Adventure 

Camping with kids off-grid is an adventure that, with the right preparation, can be immensely rewarding. By focusing on the essentials, maintaining routines, and ensuring you have a reliable power source, you can create a camping experience that is both exciting and comfortable. These simple yet thoughtful preparations pave the way for a family adventure that will be cherished for years to come, proving that with a bit of planning, the great outdoors can be enjoyed by adventurers of all ages.