Tourism excellence on Crown land shines at industry awards
lngenia Holidays Merry Beach is the winner of the NSW Government-sponsored Holiday Park on Crown Land Award, part of the 2026 Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW Awards of Excellence.
The holiday park, which combines breathtaking oceanfront accommodation with innovative off-grid infrastructure and environmental stewardship, was recognised as the state's best holiday park on Crown land.
Located near the small coastal village of Kioloa and surrounded by the natural beauty of Murramarang National Park, lngenia Holidays Merry Beach offers a unique holiday experience where wildlife, nature walks and uninterrupted ocean views form part of everyday stays.
The award recognises the holiday park's commitment to innovative and sustainable management of Crown land, delivering high-quality visitor experiences while protecting the environmental, cultural and community values that make the location so special.
The park's significant investment in sustainable infrastructure, including rainwater harvesting and treatment, a reverse osmosis drinking water plant and water management network, enables the park to operate largely off grid.
lngenia Holidays Merry Beach works closely with the local community, including environmental stakeholders and the Aboriginal community, to ensure the site remains accessible, culturally respectful and environmentally responsible.
More than 220 holiday parks operate on Crown land across NSW, representing nearly half of the state's caravan and camping park industry and making an important contribution to regional tourism, local economies and public enjoyment of Crown land.
Crown Lands Deputy Secretary Joseph La Posta said:
"Holiday parks on Crown land provide some of NSW's best visitor experiences, connecting people with spectacular natural landscapes while supporting regional communities and local tourism.
"lngenia Holidays Merry Beach is an outstanding example of how sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship and community partnerships can work together to deliver exceptional public value on Crown land."
Finalists of the Holiday Park on Crown Land Award at the 2026 CCIA Awards of Excellence:
- lngenia Holidays Merry Beach (Winner) - South Coast
- Holiday Haven Bendalong - South Coast
- Swansea Lakeside Holiday Park - Hunter Region
- Tathra Beach Eco Camp - South Coast