School holidays don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly family getaway on the NSW South Coast, you’ll find plenty of fun without stretching the holiday fund.
Better yet, when you stay at a Holiday Haven park, many of the activities are already right at your doorstep. From playgrounds and jumping pillows to swimming pools, splash pads, mini golf and pump tracks, our parks are designed to keep families entertained without constantly reaching for the wallet. Facilities vary across parks, but one thing remains the same: great value and plenty of ways to play.
Whether you’re exploring the Shoalhaven’s coastline, discovering charming South Coast towns, or simply enjoying the facilities at your park, there are plenty of ways to keep the whole family entertained without breaking the budget.
Here are five of our favourite categories for free and affordable family fun these school holidays.
Image: Josh Brnjac
1. Make the Most of the Fun Already in Your Park
Sometimes the best holiday memories are made without leaving the park.
Many Holiday Haven parks offer a wide range of family friendly facilities that can keep the kids busy for hours while giving parents a chance to relax.
Onsite activities to enjoy:
- Jumping pillows
- Playgrounds
- Swimming pools
- Splash pads
- Mini golf
- Tennis courts
- Table tennis
- Pump tracks
- Bike riding
- Onsite bike or kayak hire at select parks
The best part? Most of these activities are included in your stay, making Holiday Haven an affordable choice for families looking to get the most value out of their holiday.
Top tip: Check your park’s facilities before you arrive and plan a family challenge to see how many activities you can tick off during your stay.
Image: Josh Brnjac
2. Explore the South Coast’s Natural Playground
The NSW South Coast has some spectacular natural attractions, and many of them are completely free.
Nature-based adventures worth adding to your list:
- Whale watching from coastal lookouts (May to November)
- Exploring local rock pools
- Spotting dolphins from the shore
- Watching wildlife around our parks
- Parks and nature reserves
- Discovering hidden beaches
- Stargazing on a clear evening
The best family adventures are often the simplest. Pack a picnic, bring your camera and let nature do the entertaining.
Image: Josh Brnjac
3. Chase Scenic Walks, Waterfalls and Lookouts
Need an activity that burns off some school holiday energy?
The Shoalhaven is packed with family friendly walks that reward little legs with big views.
Easy adventures for all ages:
- Local bushwalks
- Beachcombing
- Scenic coastal lookouts
- Local waterfall trails
- Historic lighthouse walks
Many tracks offer picnic areas and viewing platforms, making them perfect for a low cost day out.
Holiday Haven tip: Start early, pack snacks and let the kids become the official family wildlife spotters.
Image: Josh Brnjac
4. Discover Charming South Coast Towns
One of the best things about a South Coast holiday is exploring the region’s unique towns and villages.
Family favourites include:
- Kangaroo Valley
- Berry
- Huskisson
- Milton
Browse local markets, visit boutique stores, stop for an ice cream or simply wander the streets and soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Not every great holiday activity needs to be planned. Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you take the scenic route.
Image: Josh Brnjac
5. Affordable Water Adventures
Water is part of life on the NSW South Coast, and you don’t need a big budget to enjoy it.
Cheap and cheerful ways to get on the water:
- Paddle a kayak
- Try stand-up paddleboarding
- Go fishing from a jetty
- Explore calm estuaries
- Enjoy a beach day with the family
All Holiday Haven parks are located on, or within walking distance of, beaches, lakes and rivers, making it easy to spend more time outdoors and less time in the car.
Why a Holiday Haven Stay Offers Great Value
When you’re planning a family holiday, value isn’t just about the nightly rate. It’s about how much entertainment, adventure and family time you can enjoy once you arrive.
With beaches, rivers, playgrounds, pools, sporting facilities and family activities often just steps from your accommodation, Holiday Haven offers an affordable way to experience the very best of the NSW South Coast.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a school holiday adventure or a longer family getaway, there’s no shortage of free and cheap things to do.
The hardest part might just be fitting them all in.
Find your perfect park and book your stay today to make the most of the upcoming school holidays.
