Waves of Discovery - Camping

Article sixteen: Camping

As far as destinations go, Shell Cove just about has it all.

The beaches, the bush, the schools, parks and playgrounds but it’s the proximity to just about everywhere else that makes it such an enviable destination. 

Shell Cove is just a short drive to some of the best holiday hotspots in the state – which is perfect when you’re trying to load up a car full of ‘are we there yet?!’ kids.

Nowra-Culburra

Only 45 minutes south of Shell Cove is Holiday Haven Culburra Beach which is designed to both excite exhaust kids, it’s a true one-stop shop with everything you need for a great weekend away.

From the inflatable pillow, putt-putt, pool and parks, there is no shortage of things to do – and that’s just onsite. Beyond the gates, there are also stacks to see and explore, including coast walks, fishing, expansive beach and a skatepark suitable for all ages and abilities.

Kings Point Retreat - Ulladulla

One day, someone sat down to work out what every person needs in a caravan park and they built it – all - at Kings Point Retreat, Ulladulla.

Pool – two; slides – two; sauna; games room; 4-D theatre – yes, 4D; flat roads perfect for skateboards and scooters and park… plus, ensuite sites, cabins and camping. No stone was left unturned.

If you travelled down the coast past Ulladulla, you’ve seen it on your right, you’ll see the queue of kids ready to hit the rides from the highway and once you’re there, you’re not far from anywhere – it’s a short drive to several beaches, the Ulladulla town centre, Mollymook and Milton.

Lake Conjola

This is one of the most iconic parks on the South Coast and for obvious reasons – it’s loaded with both natural aesthetic and plenty of activities!

Not only can you camp, caravan or nab a cabin within a short walk (literally, just steps...) of some of the clearest and most spectacular waters on the South Coast, Holiday Haven Lake Conjola comes complete with a huge program of activity for kids, park and a playground. 

Plus, you’re in walking distance to the beach, boardwalks, bush and barefoot bowling. Turn off the tablets, there is no time for technology.

Merry Beach

Merry Beach is the quintessential Australian holiday. 

Located right on the beach, there is a choice of camping, caravanning, cabins and both powered and unpowered sites and what it lacks in splash parks, it makes up in pure natural beauty.

This isn’t designed for the super-soft camper, bore water makes things slightly harder for the non-camper, especially with kids in tow, but if you’re prepared – or happy to bathe in the ocean, few sites on the South Coast are more spectacular.

There is a pool and park to keep kids active, but on your doorstep is a beach that is safe, flat and spectacular. There is a spectacular walk around the point (be wary of tides and the conditions here!), amazing fishing spots, beautiful walks and loads of kangaroos. Dogs are also welcome which is always a bonus for any families looking to travel with their pooch(es).

From Kiama to Eden, up the coast or if you choose to head west and into the country, there is no shortage of incredible places to set up camp and there’s never been a better time to do so.

Some of these sites, especially locally, we’ve covered previously, Currarong, Bendalong and Huskisson to name a few and in the coming weeks, we’ll be exploring a few more to the west and north that are worth experiencing too.

Wherever you choose to go, know you really can’t go wrong. Travelling with kids is never easy, but it is always amazing.

Go, enjoy (and good luck!) and make sure you share your favourite holiday adventures with us!