The Basin Campground

Overview

At The Basin, you can camp on the beach without leaving Sydney's city limits. Perched on Pittwater's western shore (with Ku-ring-gai National Park as a backdrop), it's the ideal campsite if you're looking for a quick, nature-drenched getaway. Forget long drives, or driving at all — the easiest way to get there is by boat, in the form of a water taxi or ferry from Palm Beach. Another option is to park at West Head Road and walk, but keep in mind the trail is steep and 2.8 kilometres.

It's a big campground, with space for 400 campers, and boasts well stocked with facilities, including showers, toilets, barbecues, drinking water, picnic tables and — in case you're feeling nostalgic — public phones. Be sure to pack your snorkel because we rate The Basin among Sydney's best snorkelling spots.

Kristina Kl via Flickr

Top image: Andrew Gregory for Destination NSW