Shell Island

just returned from one night at Shell Island, with dh and the dc, who are 2 and 5. As we drove up, I could just tell that it wasn't going to be our kind of place. Litter everywhere, scary looking dogs (and owners). The beach is beautiful, but we sat next to a family with five children, one of whom kept on getting smacked by the mother, which was a little uncomfortable to say the least.

My main problem with Shell Island, is although it says it is a campsite for couples and families, it really isn't the place if you have small dc. We didn't pitch anywhere near the centre, but I can only assume there are speakers allover the island. The music went on until 11.30pm, and it was like going to sleep in a nightclub.

We will not be returning <<shudder>>

A lovely site right by the beach. Facilities are a bit basic but the views more than make up for it.

As soon as we start driving along the causeway I feel like a 10 year old. We went to shell island every year when I was a little girl and I loved it. I love the fact that there are times of the day when the island is unaccessable (I told ds that it was like staying in a castle and the tide coming in was to keep away dragons). I love the fact that ds can spend hours crabbing and shrimping. yes, the amenities are very basic (even if the shower blocks have been spruced up) but its a lovely place to visit and stay - the views are awesome!

Fantastic site, you can choose your own pitch and camp among the sand dunes. Also allows campfires to add to the camping experience. Have rangers who drive around and speak to anyone being too boisturous after 11pm. Fair facilities although could do with updating shower block a bit.

This is not a campsite for those who want hot and cold running servants but if you want a countryside experience with gorgeous beaches, a variety of unique pitches (sand dunes, woodland, fields) and a tidal causway to cut you off from civilisation for a couple of hours a day - then this is the blissful place to visit.