15 December 2023
18 mins Read
While the ever-glistening Sydney Harbour hogs the spotlight, a myriad of spotless beaches shimmer throughout the city. Home to some of Sydney’s best snorkelling destinations, stellar swimming pools and baths, whale watching vantage points, breathtaking walking trails and secret swimming spots, our favourite Sydney beaches offer endless entertainment and unspoilt natural marvels.
Jump ahead to the beaches by Sydney region:
Thinner crowds (most days), magical underwater ecosystems and the Royal National Park’s prettiest sandy stretches can all be found at the finest South Sydney beaches.
The jewel in South Sydney’s coastal crown, Cronulla Beach is its busiest offering. Rock pools, killer surf conditions, a well-trodden esplanade and great eateries and bars create a laidback vibe and unmistakable beach culture.
Cronulla is the ultimate beachside hot spot come summer. (Image: Destination NSW)
Make like a local and jump on a board to ride its famed waves and don’t stress if you’re a novice — there are some great surf schools to be sniffed out including Cronulla Surfing Academy.
Start the day in the water at Cronulla. (Image: Destination NSW)
You’ll be in awe of Garie Beach’s staggering beauty from the moment you lay eyes on it. Located at the southern end of the Royal National Park, this local’s secret is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and a whole lot of nothing, providing dream conditions for swimming, fishing, birdwatching and just general nature appreciation. There’s picnic tables and toilets to help you settle in for the day.
Garie Beach in the Royal National Park is a bit of a hidden gem.
The main beach in Bundeena, Horderns Beach, is an easy drop-by if you’re visiting the suburb’s cafes, eateries and shops. It’s a long strip, measuring about 800 metres in length, and it runs all the way to the much smaller Bundeena Beach located beside the ferry wharf and other commercial amenities.
Make a day of it at Horderns Beach, with plenty of shops and eateries nearby.
Head to the eastern end of Bundeena to discover Jibbon Beach, another coastal gem within the Royal National Park. Better known as the gateway to a bunch of beautiful coastal walking trails, Jibbon is an unpatrolled crescent-shaped beach that only stretches to around 800 metres in length. You’ll spy Aboriginal rock engravings along many of the walks including the popular Jibbon Loop Track, an easy, two-hour trail.
The crescent-shaped Jibbon Beach is nestled within the Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)
Powder white sand and incredible views make Deeban Spit a classic location for newlywed photo shoots. Located within the Royal National Park and stretching over 2.4 kilometres, it’s a very special unpatrolled spot that offers soothing swims, good snorkelling and handy amenities including toilets and a cafe.
A gift that just keeps giving, Wattamolla Beach is a natural wonderland filled with still waters begging for little ones to splash about in, a picnic area, a beautiful waterfall, walking tracks, fishing and clear snorkelling conditions.
You’ll find crowds of people cooling off on Wattamolla Beach. (Image: Dee Kramer Photography)
Trouble is, it’s no secret so plan your visit nice and early in the day, particularly on weekends, to avoid heavy crowds.
This is one of Sydney’s most popular beaches, so get in early to beat the crowds. (Image: Destination NSW)
Just minutes away from the famous Scarborough Hotel on NSW’s south coast, where great pub grub set against superb coastal vistas abound, Scarborough Beach is a pretty patch of sand worth exploring.
Bring a spread if you didn’t fill up at the pub as it’s a great spot for picnics and if you’re a surfer, you’ll also want to bring your board.
You’ll need to be a strong swimmer to tackle Little Marley Beach in the Royal National Park as it’s home to a permanent rip. Having said that, its smallish waves provide an awesome opportunity for fishing and surfing if you’re confident in the ocean. As a result of the conditions, it’s one of southern Sydney’s more secluded beaches.
Unless you’re a very strong swimmer you should stick to the sane at Little Marley.
Encompassing the city’s north shore and spectacular northern beaches, North Sydney beaches are relaxed, picturesque pockets spanning secret bays to world-famous tourist magnets.
An ideal location for children, Greenwich Baths is one of the city’s best secret swimming spots — but crowds are starting to clue in. Head to the end of Albert Street once you find a park (allow plenty of time as spaces are limited) and pay a small fee to access harbour views and calm waters. There’s also a kiosk at the entrance, deep frying all your favourite nostalgic hits.
Enjoy a dip in the harbour at Greenwich Baths. (Image: Destination NSW)
Mosman’s ocean-fronting hot spot is one of the north shore’s most popular beaches so incorporate plenty of time to find a car park — which you’ll most definitely need as the walk down from Mosman’s main stretch of shops and Military Road is incredibly steep.
Find a serene spot under the shade of palm trees on Balmoral Beach. (Image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW)
Once you’ve landed, you’ve got an island, a jetty, a long stretch of sheltered sand and even more sand up the northern end to unwind upon plus there’s some outstanding cafes to indulge in.
Balmoral Beach is a short drive from the Sydney CBD, making it a standout addition to this list. (Image: Destination NSW)
Another Mosman charmer is Chowder Bay, significantly quieter than Balmoral but no less stunning.
Jump off the jetty at Chowder Bay.
Located right on Sydney Harbour, the Sydney beach provides brilliant snorkelling and diving and there’s even a netted section at the adjoining Clifton Gardens so it’s child-friendly too. Scenic coastal walks, nearby restaurants and a playground should also be discovered.
Find Chowder Bay at the idyllic Clifton Gardens. (Image: Destination NSW)
As iconic as Bondi, Manly Beach in Sydney’s north is filled with tourists every day of the week. With many arriving via ferry from Manly Wharf, located on the other side of the crowded Corso, finding a car park isn’t too much of a headache especially if you weave your way through the little streets stemming around the action.
Ferries arrive from the Manly Wharf. (Image: Tourism Australia)
Excellent surfing and people-watching, plus a range of water sports, bars, eateries and boutiques make for all-day entertainment.
Watch surf breaks unfold from your Manly Pacific suite balcony. (Image: Manly Pacific)
The northern headland of Manly Beach, Queenscliff Beach, is filled with big thunderous waves that attract experienced surfers all year round.
The sun sets majestically over Queenscliff and Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)
There’s also a 50-metre rock pool at the northern end right next to the cliffs so there’s no shortage of spectacular activity. Cafes and eateries are located within walking distance.
Dive into the Queenscliff ocean pool. (Image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW)
Located right next to Manly Wharf, Little Manly Beach is worth a visit to spy incoming and outgoing ferry operations and the thick crowds they transport hourly.
Little Manly Beach is dotted with yachts and ferries. (Image: Destination NSW)
It’s also a nice spot for little ones to dip their toes in as the water is always calm and dotted with plenty of exciting yachts to stickybeak. Most conveniently, you’re footsteps away from a smorgasbord of dining options and plenty of great bars.
Find a little slice of paradise at Little Manly Beach. (Image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW)
A beautiful cove located opposite Little Manly Beach, Shelly Beach is just a walk over from Manly Wharf and attracts snorkellers and divers for its stunning marine life.
Crowds flock to Shelly Beach when the weather heats up. (Image: Destination NSW)
Weekends hook families from all over the city and the car park is quite small so arrive early to beat crowds. When you do settle in, stay to experience delicious spoils at The Boathouse including good coffee or cocktails if it’s that time of the day.
Just a hop up and around the corner from Manly Beach, Freshwater Beach in the northern beaches is a swimming favourite. Beautiful cascading waves crash right along the sandy stretch making it a hit with surfers too.
Conquer the surf breaks at Freshwater Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
Even better, there’s an ocean pool perfect for lap swimming once you’re done chasing waves, plus multiple eateries within a short stroll from the action.
Swim a few laps in the Freshwater ocean pool. (Image: Destination NSW)
Renowned as one of the city’s best surfing beaches, Curl Curl is located another hop up north from Freshy and stretches out about 1.2 kilometres.
The North Curl Curl Rockpool sits on the edge of a rocky promontory. (Image: Destination NSW)
Monster waves that average 1.6 metres attract talented surfers from across the globe, as does the lagoon found at the northern end of the beach that is ideal for families carting bubs.
Fiery sunset hues erupt over Curl Curl Beach. (Image: Adam Krowitz)
Another popular surf beach, Dee Why Beach in Sydney’s northern beaches is home to several big-ticket Aussie surfing events and a string of community events.
Dee Why Beach is popular for its gigantic swells. (Image: Destination NSW)
Clocking in at 1.2 kilometres in length, the beach boasts swells of up to four metres but beginner surfers are also lured for its gentler waves. Cafes and a children’s playground are also on hand.
The ocean pool at Dee Why is a popular spot to cool off without the waves. (Image: Destination NSW)
At just 500 metres in length, sleepy little Bilgola Beach between Avalon and Newport offers invigorating swimming conditions and stellar surfing at its northern end.
Hit the waves at Bilgola Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
You’ll find rips where the dramatic rocks are located, so be careful when you’re adventuring out there. Otherwise, there’s not much else to explore so bring a good book and plenty of sunscreen for a secluded swim-and-rest rotation.
Hike to take in the views from North Bilgola Lookout. (Image: Destination NSW)
Another superb surfing beach within Sydney’s northern beaches, Avalon Beach is often cluttered with long boarders chasing down the perfect wave.
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins passing off Avalon Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
It’s also popular due to its picnic and barbecue grounds, in addition to the children’s playground just a few steps away. Beachy boutiques and plenty of eateries are also within walking distance.
Chase down the perfect wave at Avalon Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
Famed for its saltwater lap pool, perched high upon a platform at Newport Beach, this Sydney hot spot lures swimmers, surfers, bodyboarders, windsurfers and fishing folk to its crystal-clear waters.
Head to the northern beaches to visit Newport Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
A mecca of dramatic rocks, known as The Peak, creates two popular surf breaks so head there if you’re looking to be inspired by jaw-dropping skills.
With its own rockpool and surf lifesaving club down at the northern end, Mona Vale Beach is a much-loved Sydney beach that offers plenty to do.
Mona Vale beach offers the perfect day out on the sand with plenty of cafes and shops nearby. (Image: Destination NSW)
Ideal swimming conditions along its one-kilometre stretch draw decent crowds whenever the sun’s out, but it’s never overly packed, adding to its appeal.
Surf with the pros at Mona Vale Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
Protected from the elements in part, Collaroy Beach is loved for its accessibility and low risk swimming conditions, attracting many families every weekend.
Take a leisurely walk along Collaroy Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
Wheelchair access is also provided right down to the water, plus there’s a saltwater ocean pool for easy frolicking. Outstanding marine life can be found beneath the water’s surface, including sea slugs, so bring your snorkel and flippers with you.
Dip your toes in the ocean baths at Collaroy. (Image: Destination NSW)
Perched upon the global map for its starring role in Home & Away, Palm Beach is worth a visit for so much more than its glitzy reputation.
Hike to Barrenjoey Lighthouse for unbeatable views of Palm Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
The narrow stretch is flanked by three bodies of water: Pittwater, the Pacific Ocean and Broken Bay. As a result, there’s great swimming for everyone, plus plenty of opportunity to surf, sail and fish. Tackle the walk to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse for exceptional views across the entire region.
The lookout gives you unparalleled views. (Image: Destination NSW)
It’s only 600 metres in length but Whale Beach is beautiful at every corner. Flanked by two 40-metre-high headlands, the Sydney beach demands safe swimming as unruly waves create theatrical vistas, but simply stretching out across the golden sand on a towel is soothing. A 25-metre rock pool at the southern end provides safe swimming.
It’s where Sydney’s rich and famous reside so it makes sense that the Eastern Sydney beaches are filled with glamorous people-watching, epic snorkelling, a constant stream of sunbakers and picture-perfect vistas.
The action never stops at Bondi Beach, our most iconic coastal locale and a stunning spot to cool down when the sun’s out.
Join the locals and swim off the summer heat at Bondi. (Image: Destination NSW)
From the southern end where the Bondi Icebergs pool captivates – one of Australia’s most Instagram-friendly sights – right up to the northern end where pleasant, shallow waters provide ideal swimming conditions, Bondi impresses international and domestic visitors alike.
Perhaps the most iconic Sydney Beach, Bondi is renowned for this view of Bondi Icebergs. (Image: Destination NSW)
Calm waters and soft sand lure tourists to Coogee Beach all year round. Located one jump up from Bondi Beach, Coogee is sprinkled with white sand as well as coastal walks and ocean baths and loads of bars and eateries. Sure, it’s a busy spot but the beach itself isn’t as hectic as Bondi.
Two gorgeous rock pools dress Bronte Beach, a popular spot for coastal trekkers who trail the Bondi to Bronte walk to marvel at its ocean views. Bronte itself isn’t the most ideal beach to swim at, hence the rock pools, but if you’re there for the atmosphere, park a picnic rug down on the grassy patch behind the beach, grab your caffeine fix from any one of the excellent cafes, and soak up the sunshine in style.
An intimate beach attracting busy crowds, Clovelly is home to some of the city’s best snorkelling as giant cuttlefish, gropers, sponges, prawns and rock lobsters lurk beneath the water.
Clovelly Beach is a sun lover’s paradise. (Image: Ethan Rohloff; Destination NSW)
Above the surface, it’s a sun lover’s paradise as concrete platforms provide plenty of space to unleash your inner sloth. There’s also a saltwater pool at the southern end of the beach.
Plunge into the saltwater ocean pool. (Image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW)
Lovingly referred to as Glamorama, Tamarama Beach attracts beautiful crowds thanks to its tiny yet beautiful entry into the ocean.
Sit back and soak up the ocean breeze on Tamarama Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
Stretching to just 80 metres of shoreline, the Sydney beach offers playful swims but more so ample beach sports including volleyball and a great kiosk dishing up snacks and larger meals throughout the day.
Walk along Tamarama Beach and feel the warmth of the sand beneath your feet. (Image: Destination NSW)
One of Australia’s best-loved surfing destinations, Maroubra Beach, a National Surfing Reserve, is dotted with board riders hunting down its famed breaks.
Mahon Pool extends to the surf breaks of Maroubra Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)
Natural bushland, soft white sand, picnic areas, generous parklands and walking trails offer non-board entertainment plus you’re just a stroll away from plenty of dining options.
Maroubra Beach is famed for its top-notch views and surf. (Image: Destination NSW)
A quiet Sydney beach, much to the delight of locals, Malabar Beach is a relaxed swimming spot with calm conditions. Attracting families with children desperate to splash about, the little slice of paradise is home to a rock pool on one end and a boat ramp on the other, plus there’s a children’s playground, showers and toilets nearby.
Tranquil swimming conditions due to its protection from ocean swells ensure Little Bay Beach isn’t as hidden as it once was. The Eastern Sydney beach is filled with soft golden sand and families with small children who take advantage of its calm waters and thinner crowds. The only hitch? To reach paradise, you have to climb down a steep staircase.
Located on the harbour side of South Head, Camp Cove Beach is dotted with sensational views, plus ideal swimming for youngsters.
Camp Cove Beach is an idyllic spot for swimming. (Image: Destination NSW)
For these reasons alone, it’s a popular spot so factor time in to find a car spot. Once you hit the sand, snorkellers and swimmers abound, and you’ll even spot kayaks and divers.
Camp Cove Beach makes for a great family day out. (Image: Destination NSW)
Plonked between Clovelly Beach and Coogee, Gordons Bay is a snorkelling haven, attracting the eastern suburbs set via foot as cars are restricted around its surrounding streets.
Escape overcrowded beaches and head to Gordons Bay instead. (Image: Destination NSW)
Expect to see sun lovers spread-eagled across every rock and footpath in sight, switching from towel to snorkel to swim modes as a vibrant underwater ecosystem beckons.
Gordons Bay is a snorkelling haven. (Image: Destination NSW)
Families flock to Parsley Bay, an Eastern Sydney beach with calm waters and enclosed swimming. To cater even further, a kids’ playground and picnic facilities are on-site.
A panoramic bridge is suspended over Parsley Bay. (Image: Destination NSW)
Keen to explore? There’s a small bushwalk circuit that passes a waterfall and only takes 15 or so minutes to complete.
Take a light stroll along the Parsley Bay Bridge. (Image: Destination NSW)
Hiding a little below New South Head Road, Murray Rose Pool provides netted swimming and glistening harbour views.
Admire beautiful Jacaranda trees surrounding the Murray Rose pool during springtime. (Image: Destination NSW)
You’ll have to walk down a steep set of stairs to reach the beach, past a well-stocked kiosk, but you’ll be rewarded once you reach the grassy patches just up from the sand. Spy million-dollar yachts bobbing about as you dip in and out of safe waters with ease.
Head to the tranquil harbourside Murray Rose Pool. (Image: Destination NSW)
Point Piper’s most adorable little beach is no longer all that secret as Lady Martins Beach attracts thicker crowds every sunshine season. Located in Felix Bay, the Sydney beach is always calm as white sand invites easy dips between lazy sun lounging sessions. Dogs are also welcome, though they must stay on their leash.
Prefer total isolation? There’s nothing quiet about the Eastern Suburbs but if you’re looking for quieter, Milk Beach might be your best bet.
Take in Sydney Harbour views from Milk Beach. (Image: Tourism Australia)
Surrounded by Strickland House, a heritage-listed estate in Hermit Bay, this Sydney beach is the ideal spot to laze a sunny day away. Calm waters invite carefree swimming and fishing while the Hermitage Foreshore might encourage a light stroll if you can be bothered.
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the Hermitage Foreshore Track. (Image: Destination NSW)
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