Camping Near Cave Beach: What Families Need to Know
Cave Beach is one of Booderee National Park's most striking beaches — a long, exposed ocean beach backed by coastal heath, with dramatic views along the headlands to the east. Unlike the calm bay beaches of Jervis Bay, Cave Beach faces the open ocean and is more appropriate for experienced swimmers, surfers, and beach walkers than for toddler paddling. Camping nearby puts you in one of the most wild and beautiful settings in the Shoalhaven.
| Location | Southern Booderee NP, near Bherwerre Beach |
|---|---|
| Beach Type | Ocean-facing, exposed — not suitable for young children swimming |
| Nearest Full Facilities | Greenpatch Campground (main Booderee facilities hub) |
| Surf | Good for experienced surfers — check conditions |
Cave Beach Access
Cave Beach is accessed via the Cave Beach Road within Booderee National Park. The road is unsealed in sections and may be unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles — check current conditions before driving. The beach is a short walk from the end of the road. National park entry fees apply to access Booderee.
What to Do at Cave Beach
Cave Beach is best experienced as a destination for beach walking, photography, and for experienced surfers seeking uncrowded ocean breaks. The sandstone headlands at either end of the beach provide dramatic scenery. There are no facilities at the beach itself — bring everything you need including water. The beach faces the open Tasman Sea and is exposed to ocean swells, making it unsuitable for swimming except by confident ocean swimmers in calm conditions.
Camping Strategy for Cave Beach Area
The practical approach for families wanting to experience Cave Beach is to camp at Greenpatch (the main family-friendly campground with full facilities) and drive to Cave Beach as a day trip. This gives you the best of both worlds — a comfortable camping base with toddler-friendly bay beaches, plus the dramatic ocean beach experience a short drive away.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you surf at Cave Beach?
- Yes — Cave Beach is one of the closest surf breaks to Huskisson and is known for consistent waves in the right conditions. It's suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. Check surf reports and always surf with someone.
- Is Cave Beach safe for families?
- Cave Beach is safe for beach walks and exploration but should not be used as a swimming beach by young children. The open ocean conditions make it unsuitable for inexperienced swimmers. Nearby Greenpatch Beach on the bay is the family swimming option.