Million Dollar Views & Crusty Balls

From as early as I can remember, my parents would take us kids camping on the beach in March/April every year as my father was always keen to chase the Australian Salmon migration up the Southern coast of Western Australia, and then during the winter, we'd follow the sun up to the coastal sheep stations of Carrarang and Tamala in the Sharkbay gulfs for school holidays. I have lots of great memories of good times on an epic stretch of coastline with a range of different bays, beaches, and camping spots. It's a simple way you can get back to basics, pack the bare minimum, sleep on the beach and go all "lord of the flies" for a while.

As kids, this was the absolute best and still to this day, even in the shittiest weather, it still makes me think how lucky we are to have these kinds of places available to us all. And most of us take this for granted, I don't get as much of it these days, but whenever I fall asleep on the sand with the ocean roaring just meters away, I can't help wonder why we don't do it more often!

So, as I write this, we are camped up on a beach near Steep Point, overlooking Dirk Hartog Island, on the West Oz coast for a coupla weeks. Sand in the toes (and everywhere else 😳), watching the water, listening to the waves lapse and the awning flap its fuckin head off! Haha good times!

As I'm sitting here reminiscing about the good ole days, I'm looking at our current Beach Camping setup and thinking back to what my parents used as their setup back then and thinking about how much times have changed...

A 500-watt 2-stroke Genni that would rattle its head off all day to keep the beers and snags cold (we did upgrade to a portable gas fridge at one stage), the trusty ole Gas Lantern on a pole with the 2-burner stove, Dad's 30-year-old tarp for an awning with 20 poles and 400 handmade ropes from old broomsticks and welded reo bar for sand pegs.

Everyone who would journey with us was allocated on how much extra space they had to load up on bags of firewood; if you arrived with no wood, your chances of another invite were minimal... If it was beach camping, Dad just had an old foam mattress in the back of his canvas top G60 Nissan, and us kids would sleep on it till our destination. If it was more than a couple of nights, then we'd have the big 2-room canvas tent that would take 3hrs and 2 domestics later to put up (which was usually always in the rain or howling winds). As far back as I can remember, us kids would have stretcher beds, a sleeping bag and a small 2-pole triangle tent that was guaranteed to leak when wet.

So these days, beach camping for me evokes a nostalgic smile, reminding us of sun-soaked days by the waves and evenings spent around a campfire. It's a moment defined by simplicity, where nature serves as our playground, and every experience is an adventure, whether young or old. Today, while the charm of beach camping remains, it has transformed significantly. I feel there is still a way though to balance that old-school contemporary and embrace the tech but still keep it simple.

The Allure of Simplicity

Circa 2013, The ole Triton near Windy Harbour

In the past, beach camping revolved around the essentials: a humble swag, throw in a hot chook or 2, fishing gear, a bag of wood, and you're done. Visualise a time when campers brought along a basic eski filled with beers, swags scattered on the sand, and maybe a guitar to strum while the sunsets painted the sky. The beach served as both a backdrop and a kitchen, surrounded by a couple of mates, spinning a few yarns and cooking up a feed.

Camping back then was deeply personal and less commercialised. Lots of shit-talking between mates, the ability to really unwind and disconnect, and memories were made without the digital distractions that often cloud our current experiences. Those million-dollar views—the sun setting over waves, an untouched stretch of sand, or a star-filled sky—were pure magic that felt attainable for everyone. Most of the time, you were always remote enough that mobile phones had no reception, or for the first 20 years of camping, I remember no phones at all!

Modern Conveniences

Today, beach camping blends nostalgia with innovation. Campers now enjoy a variety of modern conveniences that elevate the camping experience. Examples include:

Satellite Internet - keeping you connected anywhere in the world!
Swags or Rooftop Tents - these have evolved so much over the last 20 years to make life easier and get a better night's sleep
Cooking Appliances - from 12v Air Fryers to coffee machines to boiling water, every old way of cooking has a faster or more convenient" option available these days.

Some people will argue that these innovations dilute the camping spirit. However, many campers would agree that a weather-proof swag and a capable cooking setup enhance experiences rather significantly. For instance, a well-designed rooftop tent can withstand winds of up to 60 km/h, keeping you safe and comfortable. Plus, being able to charge your phone allows you to capture those breathtaking views without losing connection altogether.

The Social Aspect: From Face-to-Face to Digital Connections

In the past, camping encouraged spontaneous conversations, and friendships bloomed around evening fires. Today, many campers still cherish old-fashioned shit-taking, but now there's an added twist. Sharing experiences online is now a common practice, done via social media posts and live updates. It's a crazy world we live in now, especially for those of us who remember these experiences during pre-tech days. Personally, I like the digital connections we can have almost anywhere in the world, and when camping remote on a beach somewhere, I always find it's when my mind is at peace that I start thinking about mates I haven't talked to in ages. So, if I have the chance, I kick back and phone them for a chat with one of the best views on earth! In saying that though, you have to know when to flick the tech and just spend time with mates and enjoy the friendship. Because for most of us a weekend on the beach with family or friends is usually a rare thing.

Eco-Conscious Camping: A New Era of Responsibility

Eco-Conscious Camping is all about enjoying the outdoors without leaving a mark. It’s about packing light, treading softly, and making choices that respect the land you're exploring. Whether it’s using reusable gear, keeping waste to a minimum, or sticking to designated tracks and campsites, small decisions add up to a big impact. When you're out in the bush or by the coast, the goal is simple—leave it better than you found it.

Being eco-conscious doesn’t mean giving up comfort or adventure. It means thinking ahead—bringing biodegradable soaps, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting wildlife and their space. It’s about swapping convenience for care and making sure these wild places stay just as beautiful for the next crew that rolls through. Camping with a conscience keeps the outdoors wild, clean, and ready for generations of stories yet to come.

My Campfire Experience

There is a reason I have a tattoo of a campfire on my hand, most people think it's because I like lighting things on fire (which is also fairly accurate), but it is more a reminder to slow down and think about what a campfire means to me.

The Campfire is all about kicking back, relaxing, and soaking up those good vibes around the fire. There's something special about gathering with mates after a long day outdoors, chucking a few logs on, hearing that satisfying crackle, and watching the flames dance while the stars come out. It’s the place where stories get told (and maybe exaggerated), laughs echo through the dunes, and you feel completely off the grid in the best way. Whether you're cooking up a feed over the coals, warming your hands with a brew, or just staring into the fire lost in thought, it’s a vibe like no other. The campfire brings everyone together—no phones, no rush, just real moments under the night sky. It’s the heart of every campsite and the highlight of any trip.

The Gear Game

Let’s discuss the importance of camping gear, which is central to any successful trip. Years ago, it was often a gamble with what you packed. Today, there is an impressive range of options tailored for every type of camper.

From ultralight tents that can fit in your backpack to high-tech sleeping bags that adjust to temperatures, today’s campers have endless choices. For instance, investing in durable, waterproof equipment can enhance your camping experience significantly. Striking a balance between comfort and ruggedness can redefine your adventure. After all, waking up rested and ready to embrace the day can make your time by the ocean even more special.

Where to Camp: Changing Landscapes

Beach Camping is about chasing those epic coastal spots while also respecting how quickly the land—and sea—can shift. From rugged cliffs and remote dunes to tropical coves and wide-open stretches of sand, Australia’s beaches offer some of the most breathtaking places to set up camp. But with changing tides, shifting dunes, and seasonal weather patterns, the landscape never stays the same for long, making each trip unique.

Circa 2010 - Salmon Fishing with our Landrover and Mates.

Some of the best beach camping happens in places you’ve got to work a little to reach—those tucked-away bays only accessible by 4WD or a good hike. But it’s worth it when you’re waking up to an untouched view, and your only neighbours are seabirds and the occasional roo. Just remember, beach camping means keeping an eye on the elements—tides, wind, and erosion all play a part in shaping the coastline. It’s all part of the adventure, adapting to the landscape and leaving it as wild as you found it.

Considerations for Today's Camper

As beach camping evolves, it’s essential to keep practical considerations in mind:

Plan Ahead: Modern campsites frequently require reservations, unlike spontaneous trips of the past. Always check for necessary permits to avoid disappointment.
Embrace Technology (But Not Too Much): Using GPS can enhance navigation, but balance screen time with immersion in nature.
Be Prepared: Create a checklist for food, water, medications, and gear, ensuring a successful trip.
Learn Local Regulations: Different beaches or campgrounds may impose unique rules. Understanding these helps respect the local habitat and fellow campers, fostering a more enjoyable experience.
Fire Bans: Be aware that not all beaches allow for campfires, and different rules apply for different areas. Seasons usually also apply for fire restrictions, so make sure to check prior to loading up 5 4wds with wood!

A Fresh Perspective on Beach Camping

Beach Camping brings together the best of both worlds—salt air and open skies, with your swag pitched just meters from the shore. It’s not just about finding the perfect spot to set up camp, it’s about waking up to the sound of waves, cooking brekkie barefoot in the sand, and feeling totally off-grid with nothing but the ocean breeze and endless horizon in front of you. Beach camping strips things back to basics in the best way. No concrete, no crowds—just you, the sea, and a sky full of stars once the sun dips. Whether you're casting a line at sunrise, chasing the tide for a feed, or just lounging around with mates and a cold one, it’s the kind of adventure that feels both wild and peaceful. It’s simple, raw, and real—just how outdoor life should be.

If you've never camped on the beach, I highly recommend it! Plan a simple outing, hopefully with some good weather, and I'm confident you'll love it! If you're out getting amongst it, we'd love to hear from you or see some photo's, drop us an email - trekcamphunt@oldmateadventures.au

See ya'll out there!

Much love

Team Jelly.