Located just 20 minutes from Nowra, amid a collection of coastal waterways, the village of Culburra Beach captures the vibe of “South Coast holiday spot” to perfection. Not only do you have your pick of multiple waterfronts, but also a laid-back lifestyle that will instantly put you at ease the moment you arrive. In the Dhawaral language, “Culburra” means “sand” – and whether you’re surfing, swimming or fishing, you’ll want to put your footprints in the sands of this idyllic beach town.
Your Holiday Haven
Holiday Haven Culburra Beach is ideally positioned on a peninsula at the mouth of the Crookhaven River. From its unique spot facing across to Comerong Island Nature Reserve, you have direct beach access to both Crookhaven Beach and the long sandy ocean-facing arc of Culburra Beach itself.
As a nod to the plethora of migratory birdlife in the area, each of the excellent range of air-conditioned cabins (sleeping up to 6) are named after a different species of bird, such as Albatross, Osprey or Sandpiper. They range from modern 2-bedroom family cabins with full kitchens and lounges to accessible cabins and affordable 2-person options – with many directly overlooking the water. There are also ample powered and ensuite campsites for your tent, caravan or camper, plus free WiFi access throughout the Park.
There’s plenty to do within the Park itself, from the solar heated pool and splash pad to the kids playground, jumping pillow, cricket pitch and half court basketball. Enjoy a BBQ or a round of mini-golf, and finish the day off with an outdoor movie under the stars – it’s all right here for your family to enjoy. (Please note that the Park does not currently provide dog friendly options.)
Of course, you’re also just a skimming stone’s throw from other surrounding attractions, including the sandy beaches Culburra was named after, plus water sports (boat ramp nearby), bushwalking tracks and some of the best fishing spots (estuary and deepwater) you’ll find anywhere in Australia. You’re also a short walk from the historic lighthouse at Crookhaven Heads, while culturally significant Lake Wollumboola showcases more of this area’s extensive waterways, wetlands and wildlife.
Local Attractions
For a little local knowledge (and a welcome caffeine hit!), be sure to hunt down Frankie’s Coffee Van Wednesdays to Sundays – an iconic vintage Franklin Airstream Caravan parked at the shops on King Edward Avenue. Serving delicious, locally roasted Hyper Hyper espresso, along with other hot beverages and tasty homemade treats, it’s the local meeting place and if you’re lucky, home to some pop-up live music too!
The flat streets (and sandy stretches) of Culburra Beach makes it a great place to ride bikes. Plus, of course the waterways and surf breaks are popular all year round with riders of various boards. But don’t worry if you didn’t bring your own gear. At Burra Bike & Board, you can pick up all kinds of bikes (including fat-tyred bike for cruising the beach), kids bike trailers, beginner foam surfboards and SUP paddleboards for exploring the beautiful waterways that surround Culburra on all sides. And if you’re new to surfing, Surf School lessons and board hire have you covered.
And if all that action has made you hungry, grab a lazy lunch, delicious dinner or cheeky cocktail in front of the woodfire at The Little Snapper. And you can get food and more (including supplies and fishing gear) from the aptly named Food & More in town. Also check the calendar because on the first Sunday of every month, you can pick up a handmade souvenir or tasty picnic treats from the Culburra Beach Markets.
Life's a Beach
For a town literally named after its sandy surrounds, Culburra Beach’s unique geography allows you to get maximum waterfront bang for your buck. A friendly throwback to the way Australia used to spend time by the ocean, it truly is everything you need in a holiday haven. See you soon!