Oz’s Best Coastal FREE Camps
Australia’s Best Coastal Freedom Camps
Sun, surf, sand – live the Aussie dream and camp by the coast
Most of us love to fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves on holidays. Waking up to the sunrise over the sea or watching the sunset, drink in hand, on warm, white sands is unforgettable. The smell of sea salt and campfires invigorate campers who choose to park by the ocean. Watching surfers ride the rips out to the break, and easily conquer waves that tower over them is priceless. One thing’s for sure – tearing yourself away from a seaside camp is the worst part about the experience.
But let’s talk about the hard part – finding these gems. Don’t worry, we’ve done all the work for you! Not all of these camps are ‘free’ but they definitely promote the freedom lifestyle. Camping shouldn’t make us feel as if we’re in a suburb of boxed-in sites, it should be about choosing a shady spot, and setting up amongst nature. On the coast, if you’re lucky you’ll have waterfront views; at the very least you’ll see the dunes that lead to the ocean.
In past editions, we have located the most iconic riverside camps, and to satisfy those who feel most at home by the coast, we now present the best oceanfront campsites in Australia
WA
CAPE RANGE NATIONAL PARK
FRED’S TIP
If you fancy snorkelling straight off the beach in one of the most beautiful places in the world, and that’s saying something, then staying in the National Park in unpowered camping sites beside the beach may be for you. Large caravans and generators are allowed but check to be sure. The bonus is that day costs are very low and you can stay for up to 28 days.
I love this place and can’t get enough of snorkelling in waist deep water over brilliantly coloured corals and fishes. It’s a marine wonderland and nearby you might try swimming with whale sharks or manta rays. If you love the aquatic freedom lifestyle it doesn’t get any better than this.
QLD
KURRIMINE BEACH
Enjoy absolute beachfront camping on Robert Johnstone Parade about 10km south east from the Bruce Highway.
Here you’ll find a quaint village with a boat ramp beside the campground, and inexpensive camping fees. It’s all about fishing here – old tractors line the car park nearby, waiting for the right tide to launch the fishing boats. Campers spend their days a few kilometres out from the beach in their tinnies, and come back with some big fish. Crabbing is good too, as the reef is about 1km out from the shore, and on very low tides you can walk out to the reef – an experience not to be missed. (But keep an eye on the tide!)
There are plenty of shady spots, and the grassy surface makes this North QLD camping spot, often described as a bather’s delight, an idyllic location for the winter months. You’ll discover a long beach fronted by coconut trees with clean golden sands.
If you need to power up, there’s a caravan park next door, and you’ll find a corner cafe and the Great Hotel nearby. You can also check out market days in the local park.
VIC
JOHANNA BEACH
FRED’S TIP
Only a minute’s drive from the small town of Johanna in the Otway National Park, you’ll discover one of the best camp grounds on the coast of Victoria.
Access is easy and two wheel drives and caravans will have no problems but make sure you take Red Johanna Road. Here you’ll find grassy camp sites that will take big rigs and can accommodate up to 100 RVs.
You can look forward to swimming, fishing and surfing at the beach but as always, be aware of rips and undertows.
Warmer months would be the go and there are shops not far away and photogenic koalas in the trees beside the access roads.
This free camp is definitely one of my top picks for seaside freedom camps.
TAS
BAY OF FIRES
FRED’S TIP
This area on the east coast of Tasmania extends from the scenic Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point in the north.
Cosy Corner has two separate entrances so check them both out depending on your requirements and the size of your rig. There are pit toilets but no water, firewood or rubbish collection. Maximum stay is 4 weeks.
When I first camped here the beach views and general surrounds almost took my breath away – simply fantastic. These campsites are but two of many in this general area so check them out. One thing’s for sure you’ll never forget the view.
The tiny coastal town of Binnalong Bay has a general store whilst St Helens has everything for the traveller.
Yes, I would go back there in a heartbeat!
NSW
GILLARDS BEACH
The beauty of the South Coast of NSW is the peace and quiet. It’s so underutilised that you should be able to find a spot with plenty of room. You’ll find this campsite east of Bega, and with oceanfront views, you’ll be hoping to stay a bit longer than planned.
The combination of adjacent lagoon and ocean beaches makes Mimosa Rocks an ideal area to explore, with walking tracks galore. There are plenty of picnic facilities, and who wouldn’t want to eat outside in a location like this?
You will pay $10 per adult per night, but considering the cost goes back to national park conservation, it’s a small price to pay for serenity. Unfortunately it’s located in a national park, so no pets allowed.
SA
FARM BEACH
This is a gorgeous strip of sand just waiting for you to visit.
You might not hear the waves crashing as you sleep, but it’s the perfect place to launch a boat and head out to catch a few garfish.
Travellers with pets are welcome. You simply must drive south to Coffin Bay for the day and sample the best oysters in Australia, and world-famous oyster pies. It’s also just a short trip from Port Lincoln, with plenty to see and do.
Come to this part of the world during summer, and the weather will be warm enough for a dip in the ocean. Spaces are limited so be sure to arrive early in the day.
