The sun-drenched shores of Austinmer Beach are humming with activity this summer, proving its status as a timeless favourite for locals and visitors alike. Despite recent news about the temporary closure of the Headlands Hotel's accommodation for most of 2026, the vibrant atmosphere at the beach remains undiminished.
A Culinary Hub Feels the Rush
The influx of campers and day trippers has created a significant boom for local businesses. Shell's Austinmer fish and chip shop is experiencing such high demand that it goes through approximately 600 kilograms of chips on its busiest summer days, according to owner Gareth Fleming.
"It's been busy, it's been up and down with the weather obviously," Fleming said. "We've had some cold days, but we've been consistent, which is really good. A lot of tourists are coming down." He added that the beach's popularity has been excellent for trade, keeping the shop consistently busy.
Families Return for Annual Traditions
For many, a visit to Austinmer is a cherished ritual. Ashima Jamal, who visits from Marsden Park in Western Sydney with her family, said trips here have become a yearly tradition post-Boxing Day.
"We come regularly, and it's one of my favourite beaches because it has everything," Ms Jamal explained. "It has the beach, it has the lawn, more importantly, it has the pool, and you have the fish and chips behind, so it's pretty cool." Her affection for the area is so strong that she now sometimes books local Airbnbs for extended stays.
Campers Find a Summer Home
Further north at the Coledale Camping Reserve, the sense of community is equally strong. Anne Love from Randwick has set up camp with her family for a four-week stay, a tradition she has upheld for eight consecutive years.
"It's like you're meeting up with family again," Ms Love said, highlighting the familiar faces that return each holiday season. She praised the site for its proximity to the beach, reasonable cost, good facilities, and strong family-friendly atmosphere.
The scenes at Austinmer and nearby Coledale underscore a simple truth: while accommodation options may shift, the fundamental appeal of the Illawarra coastline – its sand, surf, and sense of community – continues to draw crowds and create lasting summer memories.
