Best Beachfront Campgrounds in Australia

Wake to the hush of waves, unzip your tent to a sky the color of coral, and step straight onto soft sand. Beach camping in Australia is a dream that delivers, from wild turtle-nesting shores to calm family coves and reef-fringed lagoons. This guide rounds up the best beachfront campgrounds in Australia, complete with insider tips on when to go, how to book, and what to pack. Whether you roll in with a caravan, pitch a tent among the dunes, or overland with a 4WD, these sites put you close to the action and even closer to the water.

How to Choose the Right Beachfront Campground

Before you book your patch of paradise, set yourself up for an easy, unforgettable stay.

• Access: Do you need a 4WD to reach the site or is it sealed-road friendly? Some of Australia’s most iconic beach camps sit behind soft sand tracks.
• Vibe: Family friendly holiday park with facilities, or wild and remote national park campground with little more than a drop toilet and ocean soundtrack?
• Facilities: Toilets, showers, powered sites, camp kitchen, drinking water, dump point, boat ramp. Decide what comforts matter most.
• Exposure: Open coast sites can be windy. Look for dune shelter, tree cover, or cove orientation for better protection.
• Tides and swell: Beach driving, launching a tinny, and sleeping close to the strandline all depend on tide height. Always check local tide tables.
• Seasonal factors: In the Top End and tropical Queensland, consider stinger season and wet season access. In the south, winter brings brisk nights and sometimes epic surf.
• Kids and pets: Many holiday parks are ideal for families. National parks often prohibit dogs. Choose dog friendly beaches and campgrounds if you are traveling with a pet.
• Booking: Some sites are first come, others book out months in advance during school holidays. Know your window and secure your spot early.

Best Beachfront Campgrounds in Australia by State

Below you will find standout beach campgrounds by region, from tropical Queensland to the wild Southern Ocean. Always check the official park or campground website for current conditions, closures, booking rules, and fire restrictions.

Queensland: From Coral Coast to Island Lagoons

K’gari (Fraser Island) Beach Camping Zones, Great Sandy National Park

World Heritage sand island, clear freshwater lakes, long wild beaches, and a sky full of stars. K’gari is the holy grail of 4WD beach camping.

• Why camp here:
  • Roll your vehicle onto expansive beaches and camp right behind the dunes
  • Swim in Champagne Pools and float Eli Creek
  • Spot dingoes, whales in season, raptors, and turtles
• Need to know:
  • High clearance 4WD only, soft sand and tides dictate travel
  • Dingoes are common. Secure food, keep children within arm’s reach, follow all dingo-safe guidelines
  • Stinger presence and rough surf at ocean beaches. Swim only in designated safe spots like Champagne Pools or near rangers’ advice
• Booking:
  • Vehicle access permits and camping permits are mandatory
  • Popular zones include Dundubara and Waddy Point for facilities, and designated beach camping areas for off-grid wilderness

Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area, Rainbow Beach

A mainland alternative to K’gari with easy ferry access nearby. Camps sit behind low dunes with white sand and blue water steps away.

• Why camp here:
  • Beachfront tent and van sites with views across to K’gari
  • Great base for fishing, paddling, and 4WD day trips
• Need to know:
  • Soft sand access to some areas, check tide and conditions
  • Simple facilities, bring water and take all rubbish out
• Booking:
  • Queensland Parks booking required, this area is very popular in peak season

Cooloola Teewah Beach and Double Island Point, Great Sandy National Park

Between Noosa North Shore and Rainbow Beach stretches a beach-driving playground of long sand highways and wild headlands.

• Why camp here:
  • Beachfront camping zones with views of the surf and sunrise
  • Lighthouse walks, headland lookouts, and surfing at Double Island Point
• Need to know:
  • Vehicle access permit and 4WD required for beach zones
  • Beware of tides, creek crossings, and soft sand
• Booking:
  • Reserve a beach camping zone online through Queensland Parks

Noosa North Shore Beach Campground, Noosa

A ferry ride from Tewantin lands you at a family friendly beachfront campground that still feels world away from Hastings Street.

• Why camp here:
  • Absolute beachfront powered and unpowered sites
  • Watch surfers at first light, stroll expansive sands at sunset
• Need to know:
  • Book early for school holidays and long weekends
  • Dingoes can roam the broader Cooloola area, follow posted advice
• Booking:
  • Managed campground with online reservations

Smalleys Beach, Cape Hillsborough National Park

One of the most photogenic beachfront campgrounds in North Queensland, framed by hoop pines and granite headlands.

• Why camp here:
  • Wake to wallabies on the beach at nearby Cape Hillsborough
  • Sheltered sites steps from the sand
• Need to know:
  • Limited facilities, bring drinking water
  • Midges can be active in still conditions
• Booking:
  • Queensland Parks system, small campground with limited sites

Ellis Beach Oceanfront Holiday Park, Near Cairns

Classic tropical strip of sand and coconut palms between rainforest headlands, with oceanfront powered sites.

• Why camp here:
  • Absolute oceanfront caravan and camping with casual cafe and pub across the road
  • Close to Cairns, Palm Cove, and the Great Barrier Reef day tours
• Need to know:
  • Stinger season typically November to May. Use stinger nets where available or wear protective suits and follow local advice
• Booking:
  • Holiday park reservations recommended

North Stradbroke Island Beach Camping, Minjerribah

An island escape under an hour from Brisbane once you include the ferry. Think beach driving, whale watching from headlands, and relaxed camp vibes.

• Why camp here:
  • Beachfront zones at Flinders Beach and Main Beach for 4WD campers
  • Managed campgrounds like Adder Rock with facilities steps from Home Beach
• Need to know:
  • Vehicle ferry required, permits for beach vehicle access and camping apply for the beach zones
  • Dolphins, mantas, and whales visible seasonally from Point Lookout
• Booking:
  • Book through the island’s official camping operator

Cape Tribulation Camping, Daintree Rainforest

One of the few places where the rainforest meets the reef, and you can sleep with the sound of the Coral Sea.

• Why camp here:
  • Beachfront sites beneath palms, with a backdrop of ancient rainforest
  • Snorkel fringing reef on calm days or join guided tours
• Need to know:
  • Crocodiles inhabit local waterways. Do not swim in creeks and estuaries
  • Seasonal stingers, follow local safety advice
• Booking:
  • Private campground with facilities and powered options

New South Wales: From Byron Bay to the Sapphire Coast

Diamond Head Campground, Crowdy Bay National Park

An east coast classic with dramatic headland views and resident kangaroos grazing by the surf.

• Why camp here:
  • Beach and headland tracks, rock pools, and golden sand
  • Great family option with open grassy sites behind the dunes
• Need to know:
  • Limited shade on some sites, bring extra shelter
• Booking:
  • NSW National Parks booking essential in peak periods

Delicate Campground, Goolawah Regional Park, Crescent Head

Beloved by surfers and pet owners, this simple beachfront campground fronts a peeling right-hand point on good days.

• Why camp here:
  • Dog friendly section of coast with low-key vibes
  • Walk to breaks and empty beach pockets
• Need to know:
  • Basic facilities, no drinking water
  • Respect shorebird nesting zones
• Booking:
  • Managed by local authorities with online reservations

Trial Bay Gaol Campground, Arakoon National Park, South West Rocks

Camp on a sheltered bay with historic ruins as your backdrop and dolphins in the headland chop.

• Why camp here:
  • Calm swimming in the bay, awesome sunrise and sunset views
  • Walks to Smoky Cape Lighthouse and the old gaol
• Need to know:
  • Goanna visitors love a picnic. Store food securely
• Booking:
  • NSW National Parks. Peak season fills quickly

Depot Beach Campground, Murramarang National Park

Towering spotted gums frame a curved pocket beach, and kangaroos and parrots steal the show.

• Why camp here:
  • Pristine beach, rock platforms, and rainforest walk
  • Family friendly facilities in a wild location
• Need to know:
  • Keep food and rubbish secure to avoid wildlife interactions
• Booking:
  • Reserve through NSW National Parks

Black Rocks Campground, Bundjalung National Park

A remote-feel site behind the dunes near the Evans River with a dramatic black rock headland.

• Why camp here:
  • Dark, starry skies and long isolated sands
  • Kayak the Evans River and birdwatch in the heath
• Need to know:
  • Bring all water. Fire rules vary by season
• Booking:
  • NSW National Parks booking system

Treachery Camp, Seal Rocks

A magic bush-camp vibe within walking distance of powerful beach breaks, a lighthouse, and calm coves nearby for families.

• Why camp here:
  • Short stroll to Treachery Beach and Lighthouse Beach
  • Surf, fish, and explore Myall Lakes region
• Need to know:
  • Some sandy tracks and limited phone coverage add to the escape
• Booking:
  • Private campground. Book early for weekends

Illaroo Campground, Yuraygir National Park

Set beside a sweeping beach backed by coastal forest, with migrating whales in season and a true away-from-it-all feel.

• Why camp here:
  • Access to the epic Yuraygir Coastal Walk
  • Good fishing and beachcombing
• Need to know:
  • Simple facilities and bring water
• Booking:
  • NSW National Parks

Victoria: Wild Southern Ocean and Prom Perfection

Tidal River Campground, Wilsons Promontory National Park

Australia’s most loved coastal national park pairs granite domes and squeaky sand with a huge, family friendly campground near Norman Beach.

• Why camp here:
  • Walk to the beach and river for swimming and paddling
  • Trails to Mount Oberon, Little Oberon Bay, and Whisky Bay
• Need to know:
  • Summer ballots and strict booking windows apply
  • Wombats are cute but persistent. Do not feed or leave food out
• Booking:
  • Through Parks Victoria

Johanna Beach Campground, Great Otway National Park

A rugged surf-coast locale on the Great Ocean Road with grassy camps near a wild sweep of sand.

• Why camp here:
  • Sunset over the Southern Ocean and great star fields
  • Close to waterfalls and forest walks in the Otways
• Need to know:
  • Exposed to swell and wind. Swimming is often unsafe
• Booking:
  • Parks Victoria, basic campground

Cape Conran Coastal Park, Banksia Bluff Campground

Low dunes, banksias, and boardwalks meet long empty beaches on the far-eastern edge of Victoria.

• Why camp here:
  • Family friendly base for beachcombing and rock pool exploring
  • Night skies and quiet coves
• Need to know:
  • Some sites have limited shade. Bring a beach shelter
• Booking:
  • Park campground reservations required

Shoreline Drive Campgrounds, Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park

Strings of simple camp areas behind the dunes along Ninety Mile Beach give you that remote, sandy escape.

• Why camp here:
  • Walk over the dune and you are on a massive beach with very few footprints
  • Easy access to lakes, inlets, and fishing
• Need to know:
  • Unsheltered and exposed. Choose a day with light winds
• Booking:
  • Managed by Parks Victoria with varying rules per section

Bear Gully Campground, Cape Liptrap Coastal Park

A romantically rugged pocket with basalt platforms, kelp forests offshore, and close-up wave action.

• Why camp here:
  • Secluded feel and moody coastscapes
  • Near Walkerville and Wilsons Prom region
• Need to know:
  • Basic facilities only. Bring everything you need
• Booking:
  • Parks Victoria

Tasmania: Sapphire Bays and White-Sand Perfection

Bay of Fires Conservation Area: Cosy Corner and Swimcart Beach

World famous for its orange-lichen boulders and ultra-clear water. Free beach camping zones spread along a string of perfect coves.

• Why camp here:
  • Absolute beachfront sites in some areas, fire-glow sunsets, and calm mornings
  • Snorkeling, paddling, and photography heaven
• Need to know:
  • First come, first served at many sites, especially in summer
  • Limited facilities. Carry water and practice strict leave-no-trace
• Booking:
  • Most sites are non-bookable free camps with seasonal restrictions. Check current rules

Fortescue Bay Campground, Tasman National Park

A sweeping bay with pale sand and trailheads to some of Tasmania’s most dramatic cliff walks.

• Why camp here:
  • Calm waters for kayaking, plus Tasman Peninsula hiking like Cape Hauy
  • Watery blues and starry nights
• Need to know:
  • Can be chilly even in summer. Pack warm layers
• Booking:
  • Parks and Wildlife Tasmania, online booking recommended

Cockle Creek, Southwest National Park

Australia’s southernmost drive-in campground with brilliant blue water, white sand, and a true end-of-the-road feel.

• Why camp here:
  • Remote beauty with easy access, great for families who like space
  • Start of the South Coast Track for hikers
• Need to know:
  • Limited facilities. Bring everything and respect sensitive environments
• Booking:
  • Managed by Parks and Wildlife Tasmania with simple fee systems

Friendly Beaches Campground, Freycinet Region

Simple sites tucked behind dunes with a quick walk to sapphire water and long white beaches.

• Why camp here:
  • Wild coastal feel near Wineglass Bay and Coles Bay
  • Watch for wallabies and sea birds
• Need to know:
  • Minimal facilities. No water. Fires often restricted
• Booking:
  • Check current arrangements with Parks and Wildlife Tasmania

Narawntapu National Park: Bakers Beach Campgrounds

One of Tasmania’s best wildlife-watching coastal plains, with camps near the shore.

• Why camp here:
  • Wombats, kangaroos, and birds at dusk
  • Safe shallow beach stretches
• Need to know:
  • Mosquitoes can be intense at times. Pack repellent
• Booking:
  • Parks-managed campgrounds with basic facilities

South Australia: Big Skies, White Dunes, Wild Bays

Rapid Bay Campground, Fleurieu Peninsula

A beloved simple foreshore campground set between a crescent beach and dramatic cliffs.

• Why camp here:
  • Snorkel the jetty for leafy sea dragons nearby, fish from the shore, and enjoy crystal clear water
  • Family friendly beach with gentle gradient
• Need to know:
  • No shade on many sites. Arrive prepared in summer
• Booking:
  • Managed site with first in best dressed during some periods. Check local council information

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, Yorke Peninsula

Coves, lighthouses, surf breaks, and classic SA coastal light.

• Why camp here:
  • Beachfront and near-beach campgrounds such as Pondalowie Bay and Shell Beach
  • Great fishing and photogenic dunes
• Need to know:
  • Exposed to wind. Choose sheltered sites behind dunes
• Booking:
  • SA Parks online booking required

Lincoln National Park and Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area

Turquoise waters and sheltered bays on the Eyre Peninsula, with pristine white-sand arcs.

• Why camp here:
  • September Beach and other coastal sites offer beach access and island views
  • Memory Cove is a special permit-access beach with velvet sand
• Need to know:
  • 4WD recommended for some tracks
  • Memory Cove numbers are limited and must be pre-booked
• Booking:
  • SA Parks system

Coffin Bay National Park Coastal Campgrounds

Endless dunes, turquoise shallows, and remote-feel beach camps around the Coffin Bay area.

• Why camp here:
  • Fish, explore sand tracks, and wander bleached beaches with few crowds
• Need to know:
  • Several sites require high-clearance 4WD
  • Bring water and be self-sufficient
• Booking:
  • SA Parks online

Antechamber Bay, Kangaroo Island

A serene bay with pale water and a long sand arc set beside a coastal reserve.

• Why camp here:
  • Family friendly swimming and wildlife encounters
  • Good base for exploring KI’s national parks and lighthouses
• Need to know:
  • Ferry bookings are essential for vehicles
• Booking:
  • Managed by local authorities, check current booking platform

Western Australia: Reef Lagoons and Endless Beach Horizons

Osprey Bay and nearby campgrounds, Cape Range National Park

Ningaloo Reef right off the beach. Camp above a shallow lagoon where turtles cruise by and coral gardens start near the shore.

• Why camp here:
  • Snorkel, paddle, and watch sunsets flame over the Indian Ocean
  • Sites with sweeping lagoon views
• Need to know:
  • Dry season peak is April to October and books out months ahead
  • Strict rubbish and wildlife rules. Emus and kangaroos frequent sites
• Booking:
  • WA Parks and Wildlife. Highly competitive booking windows

Lucky Bay and Le Grand Beach, Cape Le Grand National Park

Snow-white sand, neon water, and the occasional beach-roaming kangaroo. The Esperance coast is otherworldly.

• Why camp here:
  • Iconic Instagram-ready scenery that is even better in real life
  • Walks to coastal peaks with huge views
• Need to know:
  • Exposed to wind. Plan for sturdy shelters
• Booking:
  • Online through WA Parks. Sites are limited

80 Mile Beach Caravan Park, Between Broome and Port Hedland

A remote stretch where the outback meets the ocean, famous for shells and sunset skies.

• Why camp here:
  • Long beach drives and fishing
  • Incredible space and serenity on the northwestern coast
• Need to know:
  • Tides run very large. Park and drive with care
• Booking:
  • Private holiday park with powered and unpowered sites

Hamelin Bay Holiday Park, Margaret River Region

A much-loved bay where gentle rays often cruise the shallows beside the jetty.

• Why camp here:
  • Sheltered swimming, close to wineries, caves, and surf breaks
  • Beachfront cabin and camp options
• Need to know:
  • Rays are wild. Look but do not touch or feed
• Booking:
  • Popular in school holidays. Reserve ahead

Parry Beach Campground, Near Denmark

Community-managed coastal campground tucked behind dunes with direct beach access.

• Why camp here:
  • Wildflower country meets turquoise coves and granite boulders
  • Good value and a relaxed atmosphere
• Need to know:
  • First come on many days. Arrive early in peak times
• Booking:
  • Local management, cash or card on arrival depending on current systems

Francois Peron National Park: Big Lagoon and Bottle Bay

Red sand meets aqua water on the Shark Bay Peninsula for one of WA’s most striking coastal palettes.

• Why camp here:
  • Beachfront camps with calm lagoons for paddling
  • Unique shoreline and abundant marine life
• Need to know:
  • High-clearance 4WD and sand driving skills needed
  • Soft sand and corrugations common
• Booking:
  • WA Parks system

Warroora Station and Quobba Station Coastal Camps

Former pastoral leases turned coastal camping playgrounds with raw beauty and offshore reefs.

• Why camp here:
  • Remote feel, beach shacks, and surf breaks
  • Stargazing and campfires when permitted
• Need to know:
  • Self-sufficient travel. Check station rules, fees, and track conditions
• Booking:
  • Direct with station or through WA Parks for joint-managed sections

Northern Territory: Top End Tropics and Remote Shores

Dundee Beach Holiday Park

A favorite waterfront base for anglers and sunset chasers, southwest of Darwin.

• Why camp here:
  • Boat ramp access, tropical sunsets, and beach vibe
  • Pool and park facilities for a comfortable stay
• Need to know:
  • Saltwater crocodiles inhabit Top End waters. Do not swim in the ocean or creeks
  • Wet season storms can affect access
• Booking:
  • Private park with powered and unpowered sites

Smith Point Campground, Garig Gunak Barlu National Park (Cobourg Peninsula)

One of the NT’s most remote and rewarding coastal campgrounds, with glassy bays and rich marine life.

• Why camp here:
  • World-class fishing and empty beaches
  • Ancient cultural landscapes and abundant wildlife
• Need to know:
  • Permit required and numbers are capped
  • Long drive on unsealed roads. Self-sufficiency is essential
• Booking:
  • Through Parks and Wildlife Commission NT with permit application

Wagait Beach and Bynoe Harbour Area

Quiet seaside escapes a short ferry or road trip from Darwin, with campgrounds and resorts close to the water.

• Why camp here:
  • Easy Top End coastal time without the crowds
  • Sunsets, fishing, and laid-back tropical pubs
• Need to know:
  • Crocodile safety is paramount. Follow all local signage
• Booking:
  • Private parks and council-managed sites. Check local info

Cape Arnhem Region, East Arnhem Land

Permit-only, exceptionally remote beaches with brilliant sand and clear water.

• Why camp here:
  • Wild, untouched coastline and epic 4WD adventure
  • Cultural experiences with Traditional Owners where available
• Need to know:
  • Permit and permission required through relevant Land Councils
  • Sand driving expertise and self-sufficiency required
• Booking:
  • Apply well in advance for permits

When to Go: Beach Camping Seasons by Region

• Tropical North Queensland and NT Top End:
  • Dry season May to September brings cooler nights, lower humidity, and better road access
  • Stinger season typically November to May. Swim only where nets are installed or wear stinger suits in recommended areas
• Southern Queensland and Northern NSW:
  • Warm most of the year. Spring and autumn offer gentle winds and warm water without summer crowds
• Southern NSW and Victoria:
  • Late spring to early autumn is best for beach camping. Water is cooler, so bring good wetsuits for surfing
• South Australia and WA South Coast:
  • Summer and early autumn have the warmest water and stable conditions. Spring can be windy with wildflowers on land
• WA Coral Coast:
  • April to October is prime for Ningaloo. Whale sharks visit roughly March to July. Nights can be cool in winter

Always check local fire bans, weather warnings, and road conditions before you go.

What to Pack for Beach Camping in Australia

• Shade and wind protection: beach shelter, tarp, guy lines, heavy-duty sand pegs
• Sleeping comfort: good mat or stretcher, warm layers for nights even in summer in the south
• Water and food: extra drinking water and a plan for storage, especially in remote parks
• Cooking: gas stove, spare fuel, heatproof mat, and a no-trace mentality for fires where allowed
• Navigation and safety: offline maps, tide charts, headlamps, first aid kit, sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent
• Footwear: reef-safe booties or sturdy sandals for rocky entries, plus thongs for the sand
• Swim and paddle gear: snorkel kit, stinger suit where relevant, rash shirt, kayak or SUP if space allows
• Sand management: brush and dustpan, floor mat, storage tubs, microfiber towels
• Wildlife safe storage: hard esky or sealed food boxes
• 4WD extras if beach driving: compressor, tyre deflator, recovery tracks, shovel, rated snatch strap and shackles

Beach Safety, Wildlife, and Etiquette

• Surf and rips: Many open beaches are unpatrolled. If in doubt, do not go out. Swim at patrolled beaches and between the flags where possible
• Stingers and crocodiles: In tropical waters, heed local signage. Use nets and stinger suits where recommended. Do not swim in estuaries and murky waters in croc country
• Dingoes: On K’gari and some mainland beaches you may encounter dingoes. Never feed, always secure food and rubbish, and keep children close
• Turtles and shorebirds: Respect nesting zones. Keep lights low at night, stay off signed nesting dunes, and keep dogs well away
• Driving on beaches: Deflate tyres, stick to the firm sand near the waterline at low tide, avoid sudden turns, and give way to pedestrians and wildlife
• Fires: Many coastal parks prohibit fires in summer. Use gas cookers and follow current rules
• Leave no trace: Pack out all rubbish, use toilets where provided, or follow proper waste disposal guidelines

Permits, Bookings, and Fees

• National and state parks: Many beachfront campgrounds sit inside protected areas that require camping fees and sometimes park entry fees
• Vehicle access permits: Beach driving areas like Cooloola and K’gari require vehicle access permits
• Island logistics: Ferries for K’gari, North Stradbroke, and Kangaroo Island require advance bookings, especially with caravans
• Station stays and private parks: Pay station fees and follow property rules. Book in advance for popular seasons
• Indigenous lands: Permits are mandatory in areas of Arnhem Land and remote Top End coastlines. Apply well ahead

Always confirm the latest information on official websites since rules, fees, and availability can change.

Campervan, Caravan, or Tent: What Works Best?

• Caravan or camper trailer:
  • Comfort and storage, great for family beach trips
  • Weight and size limit access on soft sand tracks. Choose sites with firm access or leave the van at a nearby base
• Campervan:
  • Easy to maneuver, fast setup, perfect for touring coastlines with sealed-road access
  • Consider shade and ventilation on hot days
• Tent or rooftop tent:
  • Maximum flexibility and often the only option for remote beachfront sites
  • Bring robust sand pegs and a solid groundsheet

Family Friendly, Dog Friendly, and Accessibility Notes

• Family friendly picks:
  • Tidal River in Victoria, Trial Bay Gaol in NSW, Noosa North Shore in QLD, and Lucky Bay in WA offer great facilities or sheltered waters nearby
• Dog friendly options:
  • Delicate Campground near Crescent Head, various council-managed foreshore sites, and some holiday parks allow dogs. National parks usually do not
• Accessibility:
  • Larger holiday parks often have accessible amenities and smoother paths. Some councils provide beach wheelchairs at patrolled beaches. Call ahead to confirm availability

A Sample Coastal Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1 to 3: Byron Bay to Crescent Head, NSW
  • Start with a few nights near Byron, then move to Delicate Campground for a quieter surf scene
• Days 4 to 6: South West Rocks to Jervis Bay
  • Trial Bay Gaol for calm water and history, then down to Jervis Bay for white sand and wildlife
• Days 7 to 9: Wilsons Prom to the Great Ocean Road, Victoria
  • Camp at Tidal River, then chase sunsets at Johanna Beach and waterfall walks in the Otways
• Days 10 to 12: Cross to SA’s Yorke Peninsula
  • Lighthouse loops and beach camps in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park
• Days 13 to 16: Eyre Peninsula or hop to Kangaroo Island
  • Choose Lincoln National Park for turquoise coves or Kangaroo Island for wildlife and empty beaches

Adjust the distances, add more rest days, and swap in WA or QLD sections as seasons and interests dictate.

FAQs: Beach Camping in Australia

Can you camp right on the beach in Australia?

Yes, in some designated areas. Many national parks and council-managed zones offer beach or behind-the-dune camps. Free camping on random beaches is rarely allowed. Always use official campgrounds or designated beach camping zones.

Do you need a 4WD for beachfront camping?

Not always. Holiday parks and some national park sites have sealed access. Iconic beach-driving destinations like K’gari, Cooloola, parts of WA’s Coral Coast, and remote SA parks require high-clearance 4WD and proper sand-driving skills.

Are campfires allowed on the beach?

Rules vary by park and season. Fire bans are common in summer. Many parks require gas-only cooking year round. If fires are allowed, use existing fire rings and follow local regulations.

How do I keep sand out of my tent and van?

Use a ground mat at the entrance, brush feet and gear before entering, store shoes outside in a tub, and zip the tent promptly. A small brush and dustpan make a big difference.

Is the ocean safe to swim everywhere?

No. Many beaches are unpatrolled and can have strong rips. In northern Australia, stingers and crocodiles present serious risks. Always follow local signage and safety advice.

Conclusion: Pick Your Shoreline and Go

From the coral-fringed lagoons of Ningaloo and K’gari’s long wild beaches to the squeaky sands of Wilsons Prom and the cliff-backed coves of South Australia, the best beachfront campgrounds in Australia deliver pure shoreline immersion. Book early for bucket-list sites, chase the right season for your region, and pack with wind, sun, and tides in mind. Most of all, camp lightly and leave the beaches as you found them so the next sunrise feels just as wild.

Ready to fall asleep to waves and wake to a horizon full of light? Choose your campground, secure your permits, and set your compass for the coast. The sand is calling.