The best campsites in Australia with a view

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Fall asleep under a blanket of stars and wake to some of the best views in the country at any of these picturesque campsites.

Australia really is the lucky country. Every state and territory is home to a diverse range of rich scenic grandeur that is ready and waiting to inspire and excite you. And camping gives you a front-row seat to the wonder of it all. Here, find our picks of the best campsites with a view.

Alpaca Magic Stud, Sutton, NSW

Canberrans, this one is for you. While this campsite is technically located just across the ACT border in NSW, it is only a 30-minute drive from the Canberra CBD. And you’ll be warmly welcomed by fields of alpacas, llamas, donkeys, and miniature cattle studs.

 

The gently rolling hills and seemingly endless grasslands also play host to an adjoining campsite that is available to book through hosting platform HipCamp. It is suitable for self-sufficient campers – which means BYO water, toilet and shower amenities – who leave no trace.

 

The views on offer at Alpaca Magic Stud are essentially in the name – fields upon fields of peacefully grazing animals. But if the view alone isn’t enough to entice you, book into one of the many workshops on offer: Conversations with Cows, Breakfast with the Alpacas & Llamas, Needle Felt workshops, Fleece Spinning workshops, and the very popular Llama Walking Experience.

Alpaca Magic Farm
A captive audience.

First Sun Caravan Park, Byron Bay, NSW

Cape Byron is the most easterly point of Australia’s mainland, and First Sun Caravan Park reaps the benefits of its plum position on the foreshore of Byron Bay’s main beach. Let’s just say you’re guaranteed to be the first to witness the sun each day.

 

For the most part, guests are also treated to unobstructed views of the ocean with sites located right alongside the beach. Yet, you’re also within strolling distance to all the major attractions, so you won’t skip a beat.

First Sun caravan park Byron
Wake to the Australia’s first glimpse of sun.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT

With its remote desert location, deep cultural significance and spectacular natural beauty, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is home to one of Australia’s most unforgettable attractions – and, without a doubt, offers one of the best campsite views in the world.

 

Due to Uluru’s cultural importance to the local Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara people, the closest you can camp is 15 kilometres away in Yulara at the Ayers Rock Campground. But don’t worry, it isn’t called The Rock for no reason, you will still be treated to jaw-dropping views from this distance.

 

In addition to its grassy campsites, you’ll also have access to a swimming pool and it’s a great place to base yourself to explore the park’s numerous walking tracks, rockpools and Aboriginal rock art sites. It’s worth allowing a couple of days to explore and observe the changing moods of the Rock.

Pitch in paradise.

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, Flinders Ranges, SA

The rugged mountains that rise above grassy plains to form the Flinders Ranges are more than 600 million years old. The Aboriginal Dreamtime stories that tell the tale of how this area was created have been passed down between generations for more than 40, 000 years.

 

In the northern part of this epic location, you’ll find Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Its campsites deliver some of Australia’s most spectacular mountain views and offer numerous eco-tourism-accredited guided tours.

 

Whether you love birdwatching, bushwalking, geology, wildlife spotting or 4WD adventures, this wilderness sanctuary offers a multitude of activities for the outdoor enthusiast. They even have three fully equipped observatories, so you can get an even closer look at the incalculable number of stars at night.

Flinders Ranges Arkoola campsite
Pitch a tent among 600 million year old relics.

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Lucky Bay National Park, WA

Gone are the days of paying top dollar to sit around an overcrowded resort: your own personal paradise awaits at Lucky Bay. 

 

You’ll find Lucky Bay just past Esperance in WA’s far south, and the campsites, which are situated almost on top of the sand, couldn’t offer more luxurious views: lush, turquoise waters lapping at gloriously white sand, a dramatic framing of rocky outcrops and beach-going kangaroos lazing about in the sunshine (yes, really).

 

Swim, fish or opt for a bushwalk on one of the many trails that wind through the park past freshwater pools and a dazzling blanket of wildflowers (if you happen to be there in spring). Or just sit and marvel at the beauty of the natural world. Bliss!

Camp in Lucky Bay.
Camp in Lucky Bay.

Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Monkey Mia, WA

Monkey Mia is one of those rare places in Australia where dolphin visitation is daily, rather than seasonal, and the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort offers a human-dolphin interaction program for free. This absolute beachfront camping resort is in the heart of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area. Spend your day’s snorkelling or boating in crystal clear waters, partaking in a camel ride or an Aboriginal Cultural Walk.

Monkey Mia campsite
Camp on the edge of paradise.

Green Patch, Jervis Bay, NSW

The campsites at Green Patch book out months in advance, so don’t delay. Find it tucked away in Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay on the NSW South Coast. The lucky few who get in early can expect white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and kangaroos bounding in the distance.

 

The neighbouring beaches are perfect for swimming and sun-worshipping, while nearby bushwalking trails deliver several shaded picnic spots to sit and enjoy a meal with a view.

 

Bathrooms, hot showers and water are all in ready supply, as are barbecues and wood fireplaces – so bring plenty of supplies for a barbie under the stars and a nighttime bonfire. And don’t forget the wine.

Jervis Bay green patch camping
Greenpatch from above.

Tidal River, Wilsons Promontory, Vic

Wilsons Promontory is one of Victoria’s favourite national parks for good reason. The Prom’s main hub is the family-friendly Tidal River Campground (named for the tea tree-stained waterway that curls lazily around it), which offers family-friendly campsites and huts. You’ll need to book ahead, especially in peak season.

 

All modern amenities are available including hot showers, dish-washing stations, toilets and picnic spots with free gas barbeques.

Wilsons Promontory Tidal Beach beauty
Tidal Beach beauty.

Lizard Island National Park, Qld

A room at Lizard Island resort could set you back $2000 a night – or, you could pitch a tent next door for less than $7. As far as facilities go, life on Lizard is pretty minimal. Campers must be self-sufficient in food, water, shelter and first-aid equipment. No supplies are available on the island but visitors are welcome at the resort’s Marlin Bar (although it is not open every day).

 

Camping on one of Australia’s most northern island’s guarantees easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. Nowhere else can a holidaymaker enjoy its spoils so freely and completely. On any other island, you’re confronted with a 90-minute journey from sand to coral. On Lizard, underwater gardens are within a minutes’ walk from your tent.

Lizard Island camping
Life on Lizard is pretty minimal.

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Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve, NT

Spend a night or three here, and you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of one of Australia’s most extraordinary natural attractions: the Devils Marbles. 

 

These huge, granite boulders scattered across a dramatic ochre-coloured landscape set the scene for the ultimate desert sojourn. Get ready to fall in love with the colours, sights and gentle solitude of the area.

 

You’ll need to bring your own drinking water, as well as firewood to kindle evening flames – as the temperature can drop dramatically at night.

Devils Marbles
Views from the tent

Talia Caves, Eyre Peninsula, SA

Camping on the Eyre Peninsula feels like you’ve pitched a tent on the edge of the world. Spending a night surrounded by rugged sandstone cliffs, empty beaches and eroded caverns is to experience the country at its most ruggedly beautiful and charming best.

 

Talia Caves Campground more than does the job. It comes without toilets or water, but 20 sites for bush camping. Pass the time by fishing, or simply by gazing at the beauty of the coastline. As a bonus, you can pitch your tent and watch the sunset over waters that, further west, are pounding against the Great Australian Bight.

Talia Caves lures you to the edge of the world.
Talia Caves lures you to the edge of the world.

Jan Juc Caravan Park, Great Ocean Road, Vic

Considered to be one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road gives you the opportunity to see the iconic 12 Apostles, get up close to native wildlife, and take in iconic surf breaks, pristine rainforests and misty waterfalls.

 

The natural beauty of this area draws visitors from far and wide. To truly drink in the stunning scenery, pitch a tent at the Jan Juc Caravan Park. And if you also want to check out the world-famous Bells Beach surf break, the park is as close as you can sleep to the action. There are barbecues, powered and unpowered campsites and cabins available.

Freycinet National Park, Tas

It’s no secret that Freycinet National Park is home to some of Tasmania’s most incredible camping spots, which may explain why you have to enter a ballot system to camp during peak times (Easter and Christmas).

 

Pitch a tent here to wake to breathtaking ocean views. Your days will be spent exploring the beautiful bays: Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay and Wineglass Bay – with the panoramic views of wondrous Wineglass Bay the main drawcard for visitors.

Freycinet National Park camping
Pitch a tent here and wake to breathtaking views.

 

For more camping holiday inspiration, head here. 

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Your guide to what’s new and exciting this summer on the Central Coast

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
    From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

    Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

    Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

    1. Gosford’s glow up

    room at voco gosford
    Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

    Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

    Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

    Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG). Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery, the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

    Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

    2. Newcomers to the dining scene

    table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal
    Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

    The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

    Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

    Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

    Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

    3. New Central Coast experiences

    winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery
    Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

    It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

    Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

    Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast, which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

    For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

    4. Central Coast accommodation

    view from a cottage at Noonaweena
    Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

    There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

    Allawah, a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

    In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

    To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort. This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

    5. Shopping on the Central Coast

    Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast
    Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

    For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

    Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets, where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

    Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

    Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics, or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

    For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co. This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

    Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com.