Whether you put your travel plans on hold over the lockdown, or you just want to get away for a few nights over an upcoming long weekend, now’s the time to start preparing for your next getaway. Nothing puts you to sleep like the sound of waves, and if you’re going to rough it at all, the warmer months are the perfect time to give beach camping a go. The south west region is known to have four seasons in one day so make sure to check the wind and weather predictions and pack accordingly. Although you can’t set up your swag directly on the sand, you’ll be pleased to know these campsites are only a step away from the ocean.
Torbay Inlet in Albany
At this cosy campsite you will find adventure at every turn. Appreciate the contrast between the calm water of the inlet and the crashing waves of the ocean on the other side. Torbay Inlet is a free campsite with five small caravan bays and 16 tent bays, and you can access the beach by walking several metres from the campsite or travelling along the 4WD track. On weekends it can be hard to find a spot here so make sure you arrive early or plan a trip during the week. There are long drop toilets and it is suggested you bring your own toilet paper. Make sure to also pack your own cooking stove and drinking water too! Note that sadly pets are not allowed at the campsite, and larger caravans are not accommodated due to the campsite’s small size.
Torbay Inlet is located in between Albany and Denmark, and is a great base for exploring the southwest region. Head into Albany to get stunning views of the ocean at The Gap cliff lookout or drive to Denmark to taste some local wines.
Parry Beach in Denmark
Parry Beach Campground is nestled within peppy trees, and just a short 20metre walk away, you’ll feel the sand between your toes. Make sure you are self-sufficient at this campsite because the nearest shops are a 20-minute drive in the Denmark Townsite. With facilities including solar-heated showers, toilets and a BBQ, you’ll have everything you need to have a comfortable stay. Make sure you bring drinking water, and look out for snakes, kangaroos and campfire legend Parry’s Panther, a rumoured big black cat. Furry friends are welcome here but must be kept on a leash.
The campsite has a first in, best dressed policy so try come on a weekday or at early hours to score a spot. Although you don’t need a 4WD to get to the campsite, if you’re an enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that the nearby beach is 4WD accessible.
Be sure to add the nearby Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk to your itinerary to enjoy spectacular views from 40 metres high.
Conto’s Campground in Margaret River
Wake up to beautiful views of the beach at Conto’s Campground. Accommodating both tents and camper vans, the campground is spacious and sites are sectioned into small tents only, tents and camper trailers, caravans only, and mixed sites. With a $1.1 million upgrade from the Royalties for Regions Program, the facilities make beach camping more enjoyable, with picnic tables, toilets and BBQ shelters available. Unfortunately pets are not allowed at Conto’s and you must take all rubbish with you when you leave. Guarantee yourself a spot by booking online at Park Stay WA – fees are $15 per night for an adult and $3 per night for children.
At Conto’s Beach, you’ll find a range of outdoor activities to take advantage of, including fishing, snorkelling, bush walking. Alternatively, if you seek some adventure, head five minutes down the road and explore the magical formations at the caves. Or, take a scenic drive into Margaret River’s town centre and immerse yourself in the local wine and food.
Emu Beach Caravan Park in Albany
BIG4 Emu Beach Holiday Park gives you a taste of beach camping with the comfort of being 10 minutes from the town centre. Emu beach is just a short 40m walk from the campsite and from some areas you can see glimpses of the pristine water. Setting up is as simple as popping up a tent or parking your vehicle in your designated spot. There are grassed unpowered sites for $38 per night and powered sites for $55 per night for two people. Your furry companion can stay here too, as this one’s pet-friendly!
Emu Beach Caravan Park has all of your camping needs covered with a camp kitchen, a laundry, BBQ areas, recreation room and a playground. Aside from the usual camping gear, you will need to pack a jumper as nightly temperatures are considerably cooler than in Perth.
While you are in Albany, make sure to check out the Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock. It is a 4.4 km return walk that boasts incredible views over the Porongurup Range.
Peaceful Bay Caravan Park in Denmark
Escape the chaos of everyday life and relax at the ultimate seascape. Peaceful Bay Caravan Park is within earshot distance of the ocean, so you can fall asleep to the soothing sound of waves crashing. All you really need to bring to the campsite is yourself – at Peaceful Bay, you’ll find a camp kitchen, toilet and shower blocks, laundry, and a general store with basic supplies, including ice and bait if you want to go fishing. Set up on a large grassed powered site for $39 per night or an unpowered site for $32 per night for two people. Your pet can sit back and relax with you here, with the convenience of a dog beach right across from the caravan park.
Peaceful Bay is the perfect spot to spend a day relaxing, swimming and snorkelling, and it’s also a dream for 4WD enthusiasts who are able to enjoy beach access. Book a spot here.
