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.