The carnival will run from Friday, February 20 to Sunday, February 22 and attract more than 300 crews and about 4500 competitors and supporters to the area.

"This is the pinnacle of surf boat events and attracts the very best crews in Australia and, as such, there will be some fantastic racing," carnival organiser Peter Stacey said.

"This is the crown everyone is after.

"All we need now is a bit of decent swell and we'll be in for a spectacular few days of racing."

Mr Stacey said accommodation in the area during the event was extremely hard to come by.

"I know of teams who are staying all the way from the Illawarra's north to Gerringong in the south - in fact I think pretty much all of the Illawarra and South Coast are booked out.

"There will be no road closures.

"However, there will be an increase in traffic to and from the beach at this time in the vicinity of Junction and Beach roads.

"Unloading of boats will occur midway along the grass strip adjacent to Shellharbour Beach, and trailers will be parked on the ballast grounds on both sides of Junction Road.

"The main competition areas will be extended from the surf club in the south to just over halfway along the length of Shellharbour Beach to the north, adjacent to Junction Road.

"This may change, depending on surf conditions."

Volunteers are also most welcome for various roles and can contact Peter Stacey via email at peteissurfing@gmail.com or phone 0409 044 077 to register your interest.

The Shellharbour senior boat crew are excited about hosting the event on their own break, and last week were busy preparing to better their fifth placing at last year's nationals.