Holiday Haven Culburra Beach

We were so disappointed that we left without spending the night, despite having paid $100. After a long drive, we went to find our booked spot, but the crowded setup and lack of privacy made us decide to go after only about five minutes. We’re used to busy camps, but this felt like too much, especially at that price for one night for two adults in a van. We hadn’t realised when booking online or by phone that half the camp was a trailer park. The pictures hadn’t made that clear, and seeing it added to the cramped feeling. There were also several campers flying really large Australian flags. The place is kid-friendly, which is a plus, but we’d just come from a wonderful campsite in Eden with beautiful nature, direct beach access, facilities, and room for some privacy even though it was busy. That stay cost $90 for one night for three adults and two vans. I hate leaving such a negative review, but this was a complete waste of $100.

We went looking for the lighthouse and wound up at Crook haven headland beach instead. It was beautiful and raw, with a really photogenic feel. At first the seclusion was a bit unnerving since there was nobody around, but after half an hour we came across a couple and felt relieved. The rocky shoreline and views are amazing, and there were lots of big wooden teepee structures with a mysterious feel. I guessed locals had made them for fun.

We spent Christmas there with family. The cabins were clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The bunk in our cabin was really only suited to younger kids, not teenagers, so I’ve taken a star off the rooms. Other relatives had different cabins, one with a bath, another with a washing machine, and another with a big deck. Internet wasn’t great if you need to work. There’s a beach with lifeguards at Christmas on one side and the river on the other, plus a pool, mini putt-putt golf, a jumping castle, and a walk to the old lighthouse.

The park is in a beautiful spot right by the beach, with great facilities, which made our stay all the more disappointing. We were there for five nights over New Year’s Eve, but left early and won’t return because of the state of the men’s toilets. Nearly every day there was vomit left on a couch, which was shocking and completely unacceptable. The cleaner deserves real credit. He did an amazing job in difficult circumstances, staying friendly, polite, and cheerful while dealing with things nobody should have to. The barbecues were always spotless too. He deserves a pay rise for cleaning up after such careless, disgusting behaviour. He’s a genuine credit to the park.