Richardson’s Beach

Overview

Richardsons Beach is the park’s easygoing, white‑sand shoreline with front‑row views of the pink‑granite Hazards. It’s the spot for a laid‑back swim, a sandy stroll, and unhurried sunsets without the effort of a big hike.

What You’ll Do

• Wade and swim in calm, mostly gentle water ideal for kids and casual swimmers.
• Launch a kayak or SUP and hug the shoreline’s clear turquoise shallows.
• Wander the beach at dusk when the Hazards glow and the sand quiets down.
• Bring the camera—soft morning and late‑afternoon light are prime.

Camping and Facilities

The Richardsons Beach campground sits just behind the dunes, so you can unzip the tent and be on the sand in minutes. Powered sites (1–18) have an amenities block with coin‑operated hot showers, potable water and grey‑water disposal. Dune tent‑only sites (19–45) are close to beach tracks with drinking water, flushing toilets and cold showers. Honeymoon Bay sites (46–52) open in summer/Easter and are a short walk to electric BBQs and picnic tables. It’s fuel‑stove only (no campfires). Drinking water is limited in the park, but you can refill at the visitor centre’s filtered/chilled station. A valid parks pass is required.

Wildlife

Expect regular cameos from Bennett’s wallabies and echidnas around the campground, especially toward dusk. Offshore, seasonal visitors include humpback and southern right whales and bottlenose dolphins, and above you might spot white‑bellied sea‑eagles. Enjoy the encounters, but keep food secured—possums and wallabies are bold.

Geology in Brief

The Hazards’ pink hue comes from orthoclase feldspar in Devonian granite, with quartz and mica sparkling in the sun. It’s a dramatic backdrop that makes even a simple beach walk feel special.

Best Time to Visit

Mornings and shoulder seasons are the sweet spot for fewer people and glassier water. Winter mornings can feel wonderfully solitary; summer evenings deliver warm, golden light. The campground is extremely popular—there’s a ballot roughly December 18 to February 10 and again at Easter; outside those windows you can pre‑book through the visitor centre.

Photography Tips

Aim for first light or late afternoon for texture in the dunes and color on the Hazards. If you plan to fly a drone, check current park rules and alerts before launching.