9 beautiful spots for a spring escape across the Shoalhaven region

With coastlines of soft, white sand, sun-soaked wineries for long lunches and a rich cultural history, the Shoalhaven region has plenty to offer for your next NSW adventure.

You may be familiar with the famous white-sand beaches of the Shoalhaven region, but chances are you aren’t across just how far-reaching the area is. Running from tucked away Kangaroo Valley and its serene bushland right down to the beginnings of the NSW South Coast, there’s much to do and see, no matter what kind of traveller you are.

The best way to explore is by car or caravan, giving you flexibility. Thankfully, Holiday Haven has 12 holiday parks dotted throughout the Shoalhaven region, with options to suit all kinds of travel plans, from romantic getaways to family time with the kids.

Here are some of our favourite spots, whether you’re pitching a tent, pulling up the RV or indulging in a glamping experience.

Watch beautiful sunsets over Ulladulla Harbour. (Image: DNSW)

1. Huskisson

Nestled in pristine Jervis Bay, Huskisson is a captivating, sleepy spot filled with natural beauty. A short drive away you’ll find the stunning white-sand beaches the Shoalhaven region is known for, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and abundant marine life. If swimming, snorkelling, diving and dolphin or whale watching are right up your alley, this is where to head.

Holiday Haven White Sands is colloquially known as ‘the caravan park on the point’ in Huskisson, thanks to its enviable position that offers uninterrupted views of Jervis Bay. The romantic safari tents are a highlight; these feature all the mod cons, like a kitchenette and spacious ensuite, while allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning coastal atmosphere. Imagine the soothing sound of the ocean as you drift to sleep, then the gentle calls of birds as you wake.

Try spotting whales in Husskisson. (Image: L McGillivray)

2. Lake Conjola

It doesn’t get more peaceful than Lake Conjola. This stunning freshwater lake in the Shoalhaven region stretches over six kilometres, is surrounded by lush greenery, and is known for its water activities like swimming, boating, fishing and kayaking.

Holiday Haven Lake Conjola has it all: beach access, lake proximity and the tranquillity of a bushland setting. Kids will have a ball on the climbing spider and jumping pillow after they’ve exhausted themselves out on the lake. For the best morning cuppa views, pick a waterfront cabin or powered site.

Stay on the beautiful shores of Lake Conjola.

3. Ulladulla

Easy access to picturesque green countryside and captivating NSW beaches makes Ulladulla a bucket list destination in the Shoalhaven region. Take a short drive to the idyllic town of Milton for wineries, shopping and the cafe lifestyle, or head a few minutes down the coast to enjoy the popular Mollymook Beach.

Holiday Haven Ulladulla is well-placed in town, with views across Ulladulla Harbour and easy walking access to shops and entertainment. You’ll find whatever type of accommodation you’re looking for here, including powered and unpowered sites, ensuite sites, and cosy cabins for couples through to spacious family-sized offerings that can sleep up to six.

Visit wineries like Cupitt’s Estate in Ulladulla. (Image: DNSW)

4. Shoalhaven Heads

Shoalhaven Heads is an oft-forgotten jewel in the region’s crown. A small, relaxing beach town, it’s a short drive from the popular foodie town of Berry and has direct access to the pristine Seven Mile Beach.

Holiday Haven Shoalhaven Heads capitalises on its majestic waterfront location between Seven Mile Beach and Shoalhaven River. Relax on the private deck of your self-contained cabin as the sun sets, or set up camp on one of the powered or unpowered sites. You can even bring your furry friend, as this park is dog friendly.

Set up camp then use the kitchen facilities. (Image: Somethings Wild)

From swimming and fishing to park entertainment options, like the covered outdoor cinema, mini golf course and playground, there are so many activities on offer you’ll find yourself struggling to get through them all.

Dive into Shoalhaven’s Seven Mile Beach. (Image: DNSW)

5. Lake Tabourie

Nature enthusiasts should head to Lake Tabourie quick-smart. With not one but two parks, beach access, and of course the namesake lake, it’s a mecca for wildlife observation and bushwalking.

Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie is right in the thick of it, nestled between Lake Tabourie and Tabourie Beach, with 12 hectares of prime beachfront and lakefront coastal land. Surfers will love the beach swells, while fishing fans can try their luck on the lake or the shoreline. The park is also dog friendly, and features two BMX pump tracks for the adventurous.

Nestle into these cute cabins, close to everything.

6. Culburra Beach

Culburra Beach is an angler’s paradise, and is known as one of Australia’s best deepwater and estuarine fishing areas.

One of the highlights of Holiday Haven Culburra Beach is its prime location, as it’s just steps from the beach and in close proximity to boat ramps. There’s also plenty for the entire family to do, with a cricket pitch, mini golf course, solar heated pool and splash pad. The spacious cabins can accommodate up to six, and both grass and slab sites have ensuite options.

Drop a line at Culburra Beach. (Image: Max Wheeler)

7. Burrill Lake

One of the Shoalhaven region’s best-kept secrets, Burrill Lake is just south of Ulladulla and has a stunning waterway that stretches six kilometres, making it a popular area for activities like kayaking, paddle boarding and boating. It’s also home to various fish species like bream, flathead and whiting, making it an excellent spot for angling.

Holiday Haven Burrill Lake has a prime spot on the coastline with absolute lake frontage, while also being a stone’s throw from the beach. Take advantage of the breathtaking sunsets with a lake-view cabin or ensuite site, and launch your boat from their dedicated ramp. Bring your bike to enjoy the beautiful tracks through the surrounding bushland.

Hire a kayak to explore Burril Lake. (Image: trek)

8. Swan Lake

Those seeking water-based adventures will adore Swan Lake. The calm, clear waters make for excellent ​​water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing and jet skiing, while being equally enjoyable for quieter activities, such as kayaking. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with diverse wildlife and numerous bird species calling it home.

Holiday Haven Swan Lake is within easy walking distance to the lake, beach and nearby national park, making it a great jump-point for bushwalking, water activities and swimming.

Take a walk to the lake, beach or national park.

9. Kangaroo Valley

In a secluded spot among rolling hills, and home to award-winning wineries and thrilling adventures (plus one of the sweetest townships in the state), Kangaroo Valley is a must-visit.

Holiday Haven Kangaroo Valley is conveniently located within walking distance to the quaint boutiques and cafes of town, but is hidden away in bushland so you’ll feel like you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle. Pitch a tent at one of the unpowered sites that are strategically placed to maximise the bushland setting, pull up at a powered site, or choose from one of the many cabin options dotted across the property.

Camp in the stunning wilderness of Kangaroo Valley. (Image: Alexandra Adoncello)

Plan your next trip away with Holiday Haven.