Driving to Mason Bay in Western Australia was meant to be a scenic coastal little detour… and it turned into one of the worst roads I’ve ever taken in my van. The gravel started fine and then it got boggy in pockets (I literally felt the tyres slide), and the corrugations were next level — everything in the back was shaking and moving. On top of that, I had one of those classic dusk roo dramas: a mum and joey split on either side of the road, both completely unpredictable, and it was honestly heartbreaking and stressful to watch while trying to pass safely. I also share my biggest tip for anyone not used to driving in rural Australia: be extra alert at dusk and dawn because kangaroos blend in, spook easily, and can change direction in an instant. Slow down, watch the verges, and edge past carefully — because I’ve seen (and experienced) the damage a roo strike can cause. Once I finally made it in, the beach was dead flat and stunning, and I found an unreal number of stingrays feeding right in the shallows (so watch where you step). The campground itself was a bit of a mixed bag: beautiful ocean sounds, clean toilets, friendly people… but sites are close together, seaweed can smell, and for one night, that road in (and out again) just wasn’t worth it for me.